As temperatures climb and the sun lingers longer in the sky, May is the ideal time to give your skin a seasonal reset. Dermatologists agree that transitioning your skincare routine in spring helps prepare your complexion for the warmer, more humid months ahead.

The first step? Lighten up your layers. Switch out heavy winter creams for gel-based or water-based moisturizers that hydrate without clogging pores. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to lock in moisture and soothe inflammation.

Equally essential is the daily use of sunscreen. May often brings the year’s first real UV spikes, and dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are especially effective and less likely to irritate sensitive skin.

Exfoliation also plays a key role in post-winter skin revival. Use gentle exfoliants once or twice a week to slough off dead skin and reveal a smoother texture. If you’re looking to brighten your complexion, vitamin C serums are a smart addition. Not only do they help fade dark spots, but they also offer antioxidant protection against environmental stressors.

For those spending more time outdoors, hydration is as important internally as it is externally. Drinking plenty of water, eating water-rich fruits, and using a hydrating facial mist can keep skin looking fresh and plump.

Finally, don’t overlook seasonal allergies, which can show up on your skin as irritation or puffiness. Cooling eye gels and antihistamine-based creams can help calm reactions.

May is the perfect month to refresh your approach to skincare—just in time for summer’s close-up.

Source: Canadian Dermatology Association (https://dermatology.ca)