Dr Pixie McKenna is well known in the industry for her expertise in all areas of dermatology, and she's currently the ambassador for Vaseline Sheer Infusions. We managed to get some time to chat with her about summer skin- and how to avoid that dreaded summer acne!
How does the changing weather affect your skin?
Dr Pixie:The temperature is going up and the clothes are coming off.If you want legs from heaven you simply must keep them moist! If not they will peel and become cracked and ugly! Its imperative to moisturise twice daily to prime your skin for summer exposure. Summer skin must also be protected from the rays so always remember your SPF even on a cloudy Brit summers day.
How would you suggest you target the dreaded summer acne, and why does this happen?
Dr Pixie: As the sun shines and the humidity increases the skin becomes clogged with sweat.This blocks the pores and so results in more spots.We often make the mistake of over cleansing because we feel spotty and this in itself may create more spots! Limit the cleansing
to once or twice a day and use a facial wash.Ideally let it sit on the skin for 5 minutes and then wash it off.A deep cleansing mask is helpful also- but limit it's use to once a week.Don't
avoid SPF because it gives you spots.Choose a light non oily product and ideally a spray which is less likely to block the pores.Finally ditch the war paint on a summers day as combining it with sweat is spot producing! SPF is the face paint of choice.
Should I moisturise every day, or is once a week enough?
Dr Pixie: Moisturising should be considered similar to tooth brushing - it's a daily task. Use a moisturiser like Vaseline Sheer Infusion and it becomes a daily treat! Many women treat their skin like their house plants and only tend to it when it starts to wilt. Be proactive and protect it by making moisturisation part of your daily routine.
How do you care for sunburnt but sensitive skin?
Dr Pixie:Sunburnt skin needs attention.Use after sun with soothing aloe vera.Apply an ice pack to the tender areas.Do not expose the area to the sun again for at least 48-72 hours. Avoid long baths and hot showers as they further irritate the skin and pat it dry when drying off.
What products would you suggest for sunproofing your body?
Dr Pixie: Stay out of the sun between 11-3,reapply your screen after swimming and sweating. Remember although water resistant that doesn't mean it won't rub off. Get a product which protects against UVA and UVB and contains titanium dioxide. Ask a friend to apply to the tricky areas and apply before you go out,not once you hit the beach.Wear a wide rimmed hat to protect your face and wrap round glasses to protect the eyes.Don't drink excessive amounts of alcohol as you will dehydrate and may become oblivious to the rays.
What's the most common mistake that women make with their skincare regime?
Dr Pixie:Women don't moisturise so the skin, which is the largest organ in the body and had functions in immunity,temperature regulation and organ protection- gets neglected. It dries out in response to exposure to the environment and is more likely to age faster and be prone to damage from the atmosphere. Up until now moisturisation was a chore and if we had the choice we avoided it. Now Vaseline Sheer Infusion has made it a treat.It suspends moisture across all three layers of skin, the top, the core, and deep down, and stays there - unlike other moisturisers - to give you a silky skin feel.
To what extent does diet affect the look of your skin?
Dr Pixie: You are what you eat.Vitamin b 12-in dairy products is vital for healthy skin. Iron is also vital and vitamin C is a must too as it has repair functions and healing powers. Water helps with skin hydration as dehydrating substances like fizzy drinks, caffeine and alcohol all make the skin lack lustre. Crash dieting also takes it's toll making the skin dry, cracked and lack lustre.
With thanks to Vaseline for the access! Vaseline Sheer Infusion is also the sponsor of this year's Glamour Women of the Year Awards.