Q:

I need advice on how to summer-ize my skin care routine. My skin is prone to developing brown spots, fine lines, and just looking dull. I enjoy spending time outdoors all year round, and even though I wear sunscreen every day, I know that I still need to be careful about skin products that can make me more sensitive to the sun.

A:

Summer is definitely a time when many of us need to adjust our skin care regimens. The heat and intense sunlight can worsen brown spots, discolorations, fine lines, and breakouts. These problems are often compounded by not being able to use your usual products such as retinoids and hydroquinone bleaches. Fortunately, there are ways to safely support our skin in the summer. We all need an antioxidant product all year round, but especially in the summer to protect against environmental damage to our skin, premature aging, and discoloration. Popular choices include ZO® Daily Power Defense, ZO® Vitamin C Self-Activating, and SkinBetter Alto Defense Serum™. Since you’re prone to brown spots, add
ZO® Brightalive Skin Brightener to improve clarity and luminosity. To fight against fine lines, we recommend retinol-free ZO® Growth Factor Serum or Firming Serum. You may also rely more on procedures in the summer to keep your skin looking its best. The HydraFacial® is a patient favorite because it’s safe and effective and is customized to your skin needs, whether that is dryness, dullness, discoloration, or acne.