041Beauty columnist Lwando Joko Sipeliti shares essential skincare tips for allergy season. As Spring blooms in South Africa, many experience not just sneezing, but also skin irritations- Here’s how to keep your skin glowing.
As spring takes root in South Africa, the vibrant season of blooming flowers and warmer weather also brings a spike in seasonal allergies. For many, the typical signs of itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion come hand in hand with skin troubles. Allergies can irritate the skin, leading to issues like dryness, inflammation, and even acne flare-ups. Whether you’re prone to allergies or not, giving your skin some extra care during this time can make a big difference. Here are five skincare tips to help your skin thrive during allergy season:
1. Hydrate Your Skin
Common allergens like pollen can cause loss of moisture, leaving your skin dry and irritated.
To counter this, use a hydrating cleanser and switch to a rich, moisture-locking cream to maintain a strong skin barrier. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerine as these ingredients are known for their moisture-retaining properties.
2. Opt for Gentle, Fragrance-Free Products
During allergy season, skin is more prone to hypersensitivity. Harsh products, such as strong cleansers, exfoliants, or those containing fragrances, can exacerbate irritation. To reduce the risk of skin reactions, opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products specifically designed for sensitive skin. These gentle alternatives will cleanse and moisturize your skin without causing additional irritation.
3. Cleanse Your Skin More Frequently
Allergens, including pollen, can cling to the skin and cause breakouts by clogging pores. Cleansing your face more frequently, especially after spending time outdoors, can help remove allergens and reduce the likelihood of breakouts. Double cleansing, which involves using a gentle cleanser followed by a deeper cleanse, is a particularly effective method for eliminating dirt and allergens from your skin.
4. Keep Your Eye Area Protected
The skin around the eyes is one of the most affected areas during allergy season, which can become puffy, itchy, and dry. Use a cooling eye gel or a hydrating eye cream that includes soothing ingredients like cucumber or vitamin E to protect the skin and reduce puffiness is a must.
5. Sun Protection Is a Must
With more daylight hours and outdoor activities, your skin is exposed to higher levels of UV radiation during spring. Wearing sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF protection is essential for safeguarding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunscreens that are lightweight and non-comedogenic to prevent clogging your pores. Remember to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially when spending extended periods outside where pollen levels are higher.
With these tips, you can keep your skin looking radiant even as allergies flare up this spring. A balanced skincare routine, combined with allergen avoidance and hydration, can help manage skin sensitivities and keep breakouts at bay.
Lwando Joko Sipeliti
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