Monde’s Summer Skin Care Commandments

There’s a reason we’re taught songs about covering up in the sun. In Australia, our UV is so strong and harsh, and damage can go unnoticed for many years, so a thorough SPF routine is essential.

If you don’t know what kind of product you need, the best bet is to look for the highest Sun Protection Factor possible, at least SPF 30.

Formulas have gotten silkier and creamier, and many even have inbuilt skincare ingredients such as coconut oil so you needn’t worry about your delicate facial skin getting clogged by your SPF.

Ultra Violet Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminising Skin Serum, $47, Adore Beauty

With the changing of the seasons, you need to ensure your skincare kit is changing as well.

In winter we reach for heavy, moisture rich creams and treatments, but in the warm weather these can cause a build up of pollution. In summer, you need products that will sit lightly on the skin, since you’ll sweat more, and be subjected to differing environments such as the office or the beach, which each contribute their own pollutants. All these layers add up, so using lighter products – and effectively cleaning them off at the end of the day – ensures your face doesn’t feel heavy or congested.

Kiehl’s Since 1985 Calendula Water Cream, $65, Adore Beauty

You know all those products that you’ve layered up? If they’re not removed effectively they’ll end up causing breakouts.

Unclogging your pores at the end of the day ensures that your skin can breathe and repair through the night, and one of the most thorough ways to deep clean is to follow your cleanser with a gritty exfoliator.

Pick one that isn’t too rough, since you may find yourself reaching for a deep cleanse once or twice a week, and you don’t want to aggravate already inflamed summer skin. For a more intense clean, go for a home microdermabrasion kit to make sure there is nothing left in your pores. Just don’t use too liberally – these can be very drying so be sure to follow any exfoliating product with a night cream.

Gatineau Pro-Radiance Anti-Ageing Gommage, $65, RY

Once you’ve had your fun in the sun, remember to treat your delicate skin before you go to bed.

Sun damage takes time to develop and show, so as soon as you’re out of the sun use a cooling aloe vera based moisturiser or lotion to start treating any potential sunburn or irritation.

For a cooler pick me up, store your aloe vera spray or gel in the fridge, for instant relief after discovering an asymmetrical burn as a result of your new swimwear.

Skin that has burned is more susceptible to subsequent burning so make sure if you’re stepping out in the sun again you physically cover-up, and lather your skin in moisturising and skin-loving ingredients. This will also help your burn heal faster.

Clinique After Sun Rescue Balm, $31, Selfridges