Okay so we haven’t been really getting fabulous summer weather. But that’s just so typical of Hong Kong summer, though — rain, a burst of sunshine now and then, rain again, humid and of course the awful pollution! Needless to say, our skin suffers the most during these horrid summer months so I’ve written a few pointers on how to give your skin (especially oily-prone skin) the essential treatment to combat its worst enemies.

Now, one of  the most common misconceptions about oily skin is to clarify and dry it out. It doesn’t work this way. In fact, you will find that the more you dry out oily skin, the more oil it produces and then you get really frustrated because you can’t seem to be doing anything right. All you have to do is cleanse, tone and moisturise daily AND exfoliate twice a week…with the right products, of course.

So, if you’re in need of a much better cleanser this summer — whether to remove make-up or get rid of  excess sweat (which sometimes gets mistaken for oil), use Pre-Cleanse.

It’s an oil-based cleanser that can gently remove surface oil, dirt and even the toughest, most waterproof mascara. Hydrates your skin instantly and leaves no greasy residue at all.

Follow up with Special Cleansing Gel for a more refreshing and thorough cleansing. This cleanser is suitable for all skin types especially for summer as it does not strip away moisture.

But if your skin secretes excessive oil, then better use Dermal Clay Cleanser as it controls oil production without leaving your skin dry.

Remember to ALWAYS use toner afterwards to re-hydrate your skin. The Multi-Active Toner does the job perfectly and it also saves you from using a cotton ball or cotton pad as it’s a spray-on.

Simply spritz over the face and gently pat for a more refreshing effect. Ask your therapist which toner suits you best depending on your personal preference.

Moisturise with Active Moist, a lightweight oil free lotion that hydrates without leaving your skin feeling greasy.

At night I’d recommend you to apply Overnight Clearing Gel before you moisturise and apply it on the area where it easily gets congested.

Here are a few more products that you ought to get for maximum protection this summer. It doesn’t matter whether you’re Asian or Caucasian, you still have to protect your skin from the harsh sun.

Solar Defense Booster SPF30 is the easiest to use for daily wear. Use it alone or mix it with your favourite moisturiser and you’re good to go.

WaterBlock Solar Spray with SPF30 is perfect for sports fanatic as it maintains its water-resistant SPF protection for up to 8o minutes. Its easy-to-use spray on formula makes it ideal for kids. This is a great solar defense for all skin types.

However, for those who are prone to excess oil production, I highly recommend using Oil Free Matte Block with SPF20. Its special formula absorbs and controls oil production and prevents shine.

REMEMBER to always apply sunscreen about 20 minutes before you step out into the sun.

That’s it for now…hope this simple summer-survival skincare regime helps ease your skin stress!

Till next time!

– Jennifer, skin therapist