Summer is here and honestly? Your skin is feeling it. More sun, more sweat, more indulgence (as you deserve). The good news is that a solid routine doesn't have to be complicated. We've narrowed it down to five steps - the ones we actually stand behind, the ones that bring results, time and time again.
Step 1: Double Cleanse
We say this a lot, and we'll keep saying it: one cleanse is not enough. Especially in summer. An oil-based cleanser first to break down SPF, sweat, and whatever the day threw at you - then a water-based cleanser to actually clean the skin. It sounds like a lot, but once you start you'll wonder how you ever got by without it. Your products will absorb better, your skin will feel clearer, and your whole routine will just work the way it's supposed to.
Our top pick: Environ's Triple Cleanse
Step 2: Hydrating Serum
Summer skin is dehydrated skin - even oily skin, even congested skin. Hyaluronic acid is your best friend here because it pulls moisture into the skin and holds it there. Apply it to slightly damp skin for maximum effect, and watch that tight, uncomfortable feeling disappear. This is one of those steps that feels like a small thing until you skip it and your skin immediately lets you know.
Our top pick: Environ's Hydrating Serum
Step 3: Antioxidant Serum or Moisturizer
Think of antioxidants as your skin's defence system. Sun exposure, pollution, heat - all of it creates oxidative stress that breaks down collagen and contributes to hyperpigmentation over time. A Vitamin C serum or an antioxidant-rich moisturizer in the morning helps neutralize that damage before it can take hold. We love this step because it's doing so much work quietly in the background - you might not see it day-to-day, but your future skin absolutely will.
Our top pick: Environ's AVST Moisturizer
Step 4: Switch to a Sun Safe Retinoid
If you've been skipping your retinoid all summer because you're nervous about sun sensitivity - we get it. But here's the thing: you don't have to. A sun safe retinoid lets you keep making real progress on acne, congestion, aging, dullness, and more, without the risk of sun-induced irritation. All the results, none of the compromise. This is the step that keeps your skin moving forward even when the UV index is doing the most.
Our top pick yet again: Environ's AVST Moisturizer
Step 5: SPF
Non-negotiable. It doesn’t matter if it's cloudy, or if you're only going to be outside for a minute. SPF is the single most evidence-backed thing you can do for your skin's long-term health - and it protects everything you've invested in with the steps above. Find a formula you actually enjoy wearing (there are so many good ones now - no more white cast, no more greasy finish) and make it the last step of your morning routine, every single morning.
Our top pick: Anything Odacité or Coola
the best sunscreen is the one you'll wear daily.
Questions about your summer routine? Email us at hello@faceclubskin.com or text at 604-240-8819. We'd love to help.
