As spring blossoms in South Carolina, it brings warmer temperatures, increased humidity and longer days of sunshine. While this means joy for many, it also presents unique challenges for your skin. At Charleston Dermatology, we understand the importance of adapting your skincare routine to the changing seasons for healthy, radiant skin. This guide to spring can help in the transition.

Understanding the Impact of Spring on Your Skin

While we can’t stop the seasons’ change, we can work to stop the changes they create on our skin. The first step is understanding what causes these shifts. The following springtime factors are common instigators of dermatological challenges:

• Increased Sun Exposure: Longer daylight hours and increased outdoor activity raise your chance of sun overexposure. This then increases the risk of signs of aging and skin cancer caused by harmful UV radiation.
• Seasonal Allergies: Pollen counts rise during the spring, triggering allergies in many individuals. Conditions like eczema may flare up as a result, leading to itching, redness and inflammation.
• Changes in Humidity: Fluxuating humidity may impact skin hydration levels. Low humidity can cause dry, flaky skin, while high humidity may worsen conditions like acne and fungal infections.
• Pollutants and Environmental Factors: Spring brings an increase in outdoor pollutants, pollen and other airborne irritants that can clog pores and exacerbate skin conditions.

Spring Skincare Recommendations

Hope is not lost for those who enjoy spring! There are steps you can take to maintain healthy, glowing skin during South Carolina’s warmer months:

• Sun Protection: Prioritize sun protection by wearing SPF of 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and, when possible, seek shade during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Allergy Management: Manage seasonal allergies by avoiding known triggers, keeping windows closed during peak pollen times and using air purifiers indoors. If issues persist, consult with an allergist for personalized allergy management strategies.
• Hydration: Maintain skin hydration by using a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer formulated for your skin type. Consider incorporating hyaluronic acids to help retain moisture and improve hydration levels.
• Gentle Cleansing: Opt for gentle cleansers that effectively remove dirt, oil and pollutants without stripping the skin’s natural oils. Avoid harsh exfoliants and abrasive scrubs, which can irritate sensitive skin and exacerbate inflammation.
• Antioxidant Protection: Incorporate antioxidant-rich skincare products containing vitamins C and E to help protect the skin from environmental damage and neutralize free radicals caused by UV radiation and pollutants.
• Professional Skincare Treatments: Consider scheduling professional skincare treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion or laser therapies to address specific skin concerns and rejuvenate your complexion under the guidance of a board-certified dermatologist.

Do you need help updating your skincare routine?

Our board-certified dermatologists can help you shine! As a Lowcountry leader in skin care, our trusted team has an established legacy in providing unmatched, personalized care to patients across South Carolina. Contact us today to book your appointment and learn more about our medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology services!