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Summer brings plenty of possibilities—all to be enjoyed in the sun, hopefully. But with good times, beach days and refreshing drinks comes the all-too-familiar drawbacks when it comes to our skin.
Between the sweltering heat and formidable sunshine, the thick creams, oils and treatments that got us through winter may not cut it when the weather starts to turn. Meaning it’s time to make some switches to the old beauty routine.
For Diandra Politano, a leading dermal therapist based in Sydney and official Dior skin expert, a summertime approach to skincare shouldn’t be as carefree as the rest of the season’s festivities.
With sixteen years of experience under her belt, the sought-after specialist who helms her eponymous salon in Balmain has become well-acquainted with what it takes to safeguard your skin during the sunnier months.
“It’s crucial to be attuned to your skin’s needs rather than strictly adhering to the seasonal status quo,” warns Politano, explaining that most of us experience natural changes to our skin as the seasons change but that the changes aren’t universal.
“While some experience increased dryness in winter, prompting a shift to thicker creams, others may encounter irritation. Summer can bring on dehydration from the sun and breakouts or an oilier texture for others,” she says. “I don’t believe in a universal solution for everyone, but recognising that everyone’s skin reacts differently to seasonal change is key.”
And if you thought that the little things didn’t make much of a difference in the long run, Politano’s experience confirms otherwise.
“What stands out prominently with my clients is the stark contrast in the skin of those who invest in proper care, treatments, and quality products compared to those who haven’t,” she explains. “While the industry offers numerous quick fixes, nothing quite matches the radiance of healthy, maintained skin.”
That’s not to say that you can’t start where you are, though.
“It’s never too late to begin the journey,” Politano says. “For those seeking naturally transformative results, patience and consistency are the key virtues that truly pay off in the end, not the quick fixes.”
So, what’s her advice for maintaining our best skin this summer? Heed her tips below.
It’s all in the ingredients
Firstly, she insists on introducing skincare products with antioxidants to provide environmental protection. Not only do these assist in maintaining your skin’s barrier, but they actively protect the collagen in your skin from free radicals.
“Vitamin C is a powerhouse,” she recommends. “As a potent antioxidant, it serves as a natural shield, safeguarding our skin from the harsh environmental elements, and it also helps to brighten pigment.”
Reparative micro-nutrients are also ideal for those wishing to repair any sun damage. Hailed for its soothing and youth-restoring effects, the Dior Prestige Le Micro Caviar De Rose will envelop the skin like a bandage, energising the natural recovery process.
Save the treatments for winter
Though the salt and sun of a beach day can leave us needing a good exfoliation, Politano also recommends pulling it back, as many of our more potent ingredients don’t play well with the sun.
“Don’t overuse chemical exfoliants, retinol, or anything else that might increase your sensitivity to light,” she says. “My trick is to use stronger skincare from Monday to Thursday during summer, then take weekends off in case I get caught in the sun.”
This advice also extends to treatments, which she suggests might not be a great choice for summer.
“Step back from lasers, needling, and strong chemical peels if you love the beach—wait for winter!” she urges. “Even if you’re vigilant, if you’re undergoing these amazing treatments for your skin and are regularly exposed to heat and sunlight (unless you’re not getting any heat to the face and spending most of the day indoors)—just wait.”
Good clean fun
Even if summer is a time when you wear less makeup and feel cleansed by ocean water, it’s as important as ever to clean your skin at the end of the day from all the sweat buildup and general air pollution that comes with urban life.
Something like the Dior Prestige La Mousse Micellaire Foaming Wash with nutrient-rich rose and cleansing micellar water effortlessly washes away impurities, keeping your skin fresh and your pores happy.
Invest in a multi-use serum
Just like our wardrobes, our beauty regimens consist of areas to spend and save on. While you can find effective sunscreens and moisturisers for affordable prices, Politano suggests investing in a good serum. Something like Dior’s Capture Totale Le Sérum goes a long way in replenishing what the sun may deplete.
Using Iris extracts straight from the new Dior garden in Tuscany and H.A. poly-filler technology to improve skin firmness and correct the major signs of aging, including loss of elasticity and plumpness, this powerful serum is a wonder for optimising the skin’s appearance and endurance.
“This serum can change the skin,” she says. “The ingredients are designed to dive deep and treat concerns. It’s so worth it.”
Diversifying your sun protection
“SPF alone isn’t enough—it shouldn’t be your last line of defence,” explains Politano. “If you’re exposed to the sun directly, you need a hat and shade. Utilise an umbrella if you spend the day at the beach or in the sun.”
