Spark

Summer can be both a blessing and a curse when it comes to our skin. There’s a fine line between a pretty glow and a full-on sweating. Throw in sun damage, clogged pores and the general dirt and grime that comes with a day at the beach…well, let’s just say the most glorious time of the year can wreak havoc on your skin if you don’t treat it right. That’s why we’ve tapped our friends over at Sephora to share some of their summer skin care secrets with us. As beauty experts, they know just the right products to add to our shopping baskets for a summer of fresh and glowing skin. Here are their top picks for solving summer’s most dreaded skin dilemmas.

Summer skin challenge #1: Excess sweating that attracts dirt and pollutants, and clogs pores
Solution: Sephora Collection Supreme Cleansing Foam, $15
What it does: Talk about multi-tasking - this foam removes make-up, cleanses AND tones in one quick step (and at one great price point!). The dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested formula includes HydroSenn+, a natural ingredient proven to deliver immediate and long-lasting hydration through Manitoba’s hot, humid summer months. Sweating can increase oil secretions and attract dirt and pollutants. Gentle cleansing is the best way to restore skin to a healthy glow.
Tips and tricks: A cleansing foam can be used on any skin type and at any age, so it’s very versatile. Simply pump a small amount on your hands, use a circular motion to apply, and rinse with warm water. Bonus? It whisks away all the waterproof make-up we love for summer.

Summer Skin Challenge #2: Staying moisturized and refreshed without added heaviness
Solution: Fresh Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil, 0.5 oz $22 or 1.7 oz $59
What it does: Oil on your face? Yup, we were skeptical too. But it turns out we are simply adding back the natural ‘good oils’ that get stripped away from our skin through daily cleansing and the summer elements. A blend of pure oils (seaberry, cranberry seed, camellia seed, grape seed, and sweet almond), this lightweight face oil is packed with restorative omegas to maintain a youthful appearance, and vitamin E to maintain skin’s elasticity and smoothness. This powerful antioxidant also protects skin from aging free radicals (like the summer sun), leaving your complexion soft, smooth, and refreshed.
Tips and tricks:  A little goes a long way so you only need one to two drops for your skin. You can also add a drop to your regular moisturizer for an added boost of hydration.

Summer Skin Challenge #3: Strong sun protection that doesn’t irritate the skin
Solution: Shiseido Gentle Sun Protection Lotion, $49
What it does: A sunscreen that also makes our skin feel soft and smooth? Yes, please! This exceptionally gentle, non-chemical action SPF 33 sunscreen provides strong sun protection in a hypoallergenic formula for delicate skin. With titanium dioxide and petal-shaped zinc oxide, it eliminates alcohol, fragrances, UV absorbers, and colorants. It leaves your skin feeling soft and protected against roughness and dryness. Safe for babies over six months and kids, this one’s great for the whole family.
Tip and tricks: Protect, protect, protect…always apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going outside. Sun exposure causes most of the skin changes that we think of as a normal part of aging. So while sun damage may not be apparent when you're young, it will definitely show later in life. 

Summer Skin Challenge #4: The ongoing battle between your skin and the summer elements
Solution: Clarisonic Sonic Skin Cleansing For Face and Body, $265
What it does: You know how good your teeth feel after using an electric toothbrush? This wonderful little tool was created by the inventors of the Sonic Toothbrush and makes your skin feel just as clean and refreshed. Sonic technology frequency moves the soft, gentle brush at more than 300 times per second for an extra deep cleansing. Your skin products will absorb better, pores will appear smaller, fine lines and wrinkles appear reduced, and your skin’s tone and texture will improve.
Tips and tricks: This waterproof tool is great for reducing oily and sweaty areas, dry patches, and blemishes on your face and full body. Use it as part of your cleansing routine or bring it into the bath or shower.

Shop all of these products at Sephora.