8 tips from Dermatologist Dr George Bethimoutis
Spring is a season of renewal—a time when nature shakes off the remnants of winter and bursts into bloom. Just like the environment around us, your skin undergoes changes in response to warmer temperatures, increased humidity, and longer days under the sun. That makes it the perfect moment to revisit, refresh, and revamp your skincare routine.
Here are 8 in-depth spring skincare tips, by Dr George Bethimoutis, to help you transition smoothly and keep your complexion fresh, radiant, and healthy.
1. Transition to Lightweight, Hydrating Moisturizers
Winter’s thick, heavy creams are ideal for protecting skin against harsh winds and dry indoor heating. But come spring, the increased moisture in the air and warmer temperatures mean your skin may not need such dense hydration. Continuing to use those occlusive products can clog pores, leading to breakouts or excess shine.
What to do:
- Switch to gel-based, water-based, or oil-free moisturizers.
They’re lightweight, fast-absorbing, and hydrating without heaviness.
Ingredients to look for:
- Hyaluronic acid: Attracts water and keeps skin plump.
- Glycerin: Draws moisture deep into the skin.
- Squalane: Lightweight oil that mimics your skin’s natural oils without feeling greasy.
- Aloe vera: Naturally soothing and refreshing.
Pro Tip:
For an added cooling effect, store your moisturizer in the refrigerator. It not only soothes your skin but also helps reduce morning puffiness.
2. Elevate Your Sun Protection Game
One of the biggest mistakes people make is reserving sunscreen strictly for summer or sunny days. But the truth is, UV rays are strong year-round, and during spring, the sun gets stronger while you likely spend more time outdoors.
Why it matters:
- UVA rays (aging rays) are present all year and penetrate clouds and glass.
- UVB rays (burning rays) increase during spring and summer.
Best practices:
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day.
- Prefer lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreens that won’t feel heavy.
Types of sunscreen:
- Mineral sunscreens: Zinc oxide & titanium dioxide; great for sensitive skin.
- Chemical sunscreens: Absorb UV rays; often more sheer and lightweight.
Don’t forget:
Apply to often-missed spots—neck, ears, eyelids, hands—and reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re sweating or spending long hours outdoors.
3. Exfoliate Gently to Renew Dull Winter Skin
Dry winter air often leads to a buildup of dead skin cells, leaving your complexion looking tired and rough. Exfoliation is key to revealing fresh, glowing skin—but it needs to be done mindfully, especially as sun exposure increases.
Two types of exfoliants:
- Chemical exfoliants:
- AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): Glycolic acid, lactic acid—dissolve dead skin cells and promote radiance.
- BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Salicylic acid—penetrates pores and helps control oil.
- Physical exfoliants:
- Scrubs with fine, smooth particles. Avoid large, jagged particles like apricot kernels—they can cause microtears.
Best practice:
Exfoliate 1–2 times per week. Over-exfoliation can weaken the skin barrier, making your skin more sensitive to UV damage and irritation. Always follow up with sunscreen.
4. Incorporate Antioxidants to Shield Against Environmental Stressors
Spring brings not only more sunshine but also increased pollen, pollution, and allergens—all of which can wreak havoc on your skin. Enter antioxidants, your skin’s natural defense system against free radicals, which cause premature aging, dullness, and inflammation.
Key antioxidants:
- Vitamin C: Brightens skin, evens tone, and protects against UV damage.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces redness, controls oil, strengthens the skin barrier.
- Green tea extract & CoQ10: Soothing, anti-inflammatory, and protective.
How to use:
Layer antioxidant serums in the morning underneath sunscreen. This dual protection boosts your skin’s resilience and leaves it looking luminous.
5. Spring Clean Your Skincare Products & Tools
Your bathroom shelf deserves a seasonal refresh, too. Product clutter, expired items, and dirty tools can all contribute to skin issues.
What to do:
- Check expiration dates.
Expired products can lose potency and harbor bacteria. - Declutter:
Be honest about what you’re actually using. Toss anything that’s outdated, separated, or smells off. - Clean makeup brushes and sponges.
Bacteria buildup can lead to breakouts. Wash them weekly with gentle soap or brush cleanser. - Sanitize your skincare shelf/counter:
A clean space helps you stick to your routine and ensures products stay fresh.
6. Hydrate—From the Inside & Out
Warmer weather means more sweat, more sun exposure, and more risk of dehydration—not just internally but also at the skin’s surface.
Tips:
- Internally:
Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Up your intake with hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and strawberries. - Externally:
- Add a hydrating serum (think hyaluronic acid, panthenol, or beta-glucan) before moisturizer.
- Consider facial mists throughout the day to replenish moisture and cool the skin.
Bonus: Opt for a humidifier indoors if springtime allergies cause you to rely on drying air conditioning.
7. Switch to a Gentle, Balancing Cleanser
Your rich, creamy winter cleansers may be too much for spring. Over-cleansing or using heavy formulas can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it imbalanced.
Ideal choices:
- Gel cleansers for combination/oily skin.
- Foaming cleansers that are sulfate-free, so they cleanse without drying.
- Milk or cream cleansers for sensitive or dry skin types.
Frequency:
Stick to cleansing twice a day—morning and night—to remove sweat, sunscreen, pollution, and allergens.
8. Protect Skin Against Spring Allergies & Irritants
Pollen, pollution, and other airborne irritants spike in spring, often triggering flare-ups like redness, itching, or sensitivity. Even if you don’t have full-blown allergies, environmental stressors can impact your skin’s health.
How to protect:
- Double cleanse at night.
Use an oil-based cleanser first to break down sunscreen, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser to remove allergens and grime. - Strengthen your skin barrier.
Use ceramide-rich moisturizers and calming ingredients like niacinamide, centella asiatica, and chamomile. - Soothing treatments:
Keep a stash of calming sheet masks in the fridge. Cooling ingredients like cucumber, green tea, or allantoin reduce redness and irritation.
Let Your Skin Bloom This Spring!
Spring is all about renewal—and your skincare routine should reflect that. By lightening up your products, increasing protection, and paying attention to environmental shifts, you can keep your skin healthy, balanced, and glowing throughout the season. Whether you’re soaking up the sunshine, enjoying outdoor workouts, or just reveling in nature’s bloom, these tips will ensure your skin stays as fresh and vibrant as spring itself.
Who is Dr George Bethimoutis?
Dr. George Bethimoutis is a highly regarded, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Derma Lab Clinic in London. With a medical degree from Athens Medical School and specialized training in prominent hospitals across Greece and the UK, including London and Cambridge, he combines extensive clinical expertise with a strong background in molecular biology research. His published research includes work on HPV and skin-related studies, reflecting his commitment to evidence-based dermatology.
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