As the seasons change, the days are getting longer and hotter. Often your skin is not ready for the abrupt transition and the sun exposure that accompanies it. So it’s important to be sun smart, and to start preparing your skin and body with these “5 easy steps to wake your winter skin ”: Get some sun, resurface your skin, hydrate inside and out, steer clear of photosensitive ingredients, and supercharge your body with antioxidants.

It seems that winter is finally calling it quits. This means longer and brighter days, more time spent outdoors, and a transition to lighter clothes and food. But whatever you do, don’t mosey into spring and summer without a plan. Incorporate these fast and easy steps into your skincare routine to make the most of the transition.

Step 1 — Get Some Sun!

Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin, is beneficial for both physical and mental health. From helping with hair growth to improving our mood and sleep, this vitamin (which is technically a hormone) is vital to your well-being. And that’s good news for us, as vitamin D is easily obtained through sensible sun exposure .

But be careful and go easy. After winter, your skin is NOT ready for excessive amounts of sun. Unless your skin type is a 4 or 5 on the Fitzpatrick scale (meaning your skin is brown or black), your melanin levels might be at their lowest of the year. With this in mind, you’ll want to gradually increase this natural sun protectant without taking on the risk of burning or creating hyperpigmentation. And whatever your skin type, don’t forget that in respect to UVA and UVB, the ‘A’ is for Aging and the ‘B’ is for Burning. So always be mindful in the sun! Check out and download our app to know how long you can spend in the sun before being at risk of burning.

Step 2 — Resurface Your Skin

You’ll also want to exfoliate and resurface your skin to eliminate dead cells and smooth out the skin surface. This will help you to develop that coveted natural glow, and find a more uniform and long-lasting tan.

At night, methodical cleansing is mandatory, as the accumulated dirt  builds up with sweat on the skin’s surface to clog your pores.

But don’t go crazy with cleansing and exfoliation. There’s no need to use harsh exfoliators, as everybody’s skin is unique and responds differently in terms of exfoliant textures and frequency.

Step 3 — Hydrate Inside and Out

Say goodbye to heavy and rich winter creams, and say hello to serums and lighter textures. To help you on your way, premier moisture-locker ingredients such as hyaluronic acid have your back.

Drink, drink, drink! Drink at least 2 liters of liquid every day (soda and alcohol do not apply). Aside from the diffusion of your own water through sweating, there are UVs, air conditioning, smog, and other environmental factors that accelerate dehydration, one of the major causes of skin aging. So remember to replenish often.

Step 4 — Steer Clear of Photosensitive Ingredients

You all know that medications and cosmetic ingredients can cause sun reactions. Alcohol and fragrance contained in perfumes/toners, retinoids, AHA, and self tanners are included among the products and ingredients that need at least 24 hours to settle before you go out in the sun.

As for medications, it’s best to check the list and consult with your doctor if you have any doubts or happen to experience an abnormal rash.

Step 5 — Supercharge Your Body with Antioxidants

Antioxidants fight free radicals and help to prevent sun damage. You can either eat them or apply them directly to your skin. Vitamin C (20% concentration, always comes with Vitamin E)  is considered a star ingredient to fight against sun damage. Also consider putting either Polyphenols, CoQ10, Alpha Lipoic Acid, or green tea on your antioxidant list.