As the weather warms and we begin to enjoy all that the spring and summer seasons bring, our skincare routines also could use a change.
From switching to lighter formulas to prioritizing sun protection and antioxidants, here's how to keep your skin healthy, glowing and balanced all season long.
According to Haley Outcalt, FNP-C, MSN, BSN, a board certified family nurse practitioner specializing in aesthetic and functional medicine and founder of Aesthetic Evolution, there are a number of ways we can modify our routines as we transition out of the colder months.
"I would transition to a lighter moisturizer such as Skinbetter Science's Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment or their Hydration Boosting Cream," Outcalt suggested. "I would also make sure I'm using a high-quality vitamin c for antioxidant protection such as Skinbetter's Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum or ELEVAI's Efinity serum."
INGREDIENTS MATTER
Outcalt emphasized the importance of specific ingredients as you look to refresh your skin from the harsh winter months.
"Antioxidants decrease sun damage, protect against environmental toxins, and increase collagen production," Outcalt said. "And, as always, you need to wear a daily SPF above 40."
For sun protection, she recommends Colorscience's Total Protection Face Shield Flex or Glow SPF 50—a tinted moisturizer with an airbrushed coverage.
"Another favorite is Skinbetter's easy to use SPF compacts, which come with either a tinted or matte finish," Outcalt shared, noting she specifically loves the matte finish/clear coat as a primer or for when she's exercising outdoors.
Outcalt also enjoys using a CO2LIFT Carboxy Gel Mask for deep hydration and increased blood flow.
"The glow you get is amazing and can really boost the dry skin struggles of winter and get your skin spring ready."
TREAT YOURSELF WITH SOME TREATMENTS
Beyond adjusting your skincare routine, Outcalt also recommends some treatments which can set the foundation for healthy and glowing skin throughout the season.
"To reset the skin after winter, I always recommend using medical-grade products and getting a routine dermaplane session where we remove dry and dead skin cells," she advised. "Before summer arrives, get your chemical peels and SkinPen microneedling sessions in because it's harder to stay out of the sun for recovery. And let's face it, we wait so long to finally be in the sun! Just make sure to always wear SPF to protect your investments."
CONSIDERATIONS WITH INCREASED HEAT AND HUMIDITY
"To prevent clogged pores and breakouts during humidity, always double cleanse daily; I love Skinbetter Science Cleansing Gel and Colorescience Barrier Pro 1-Step Cleanser," said Outcalt, who also suggests using an Alpharet Peel Pad to add extra exfoliation for oilier skin types and acne-prone skin. "The one product you need year-round is Alpharet Overnight Cream, a retinoid, glycolic acid combination that increases skin cell turnover and collagen, and improves fine lines, texture, tone and pore size. It's my OG anti-aging product."
If you're planning to spend time outside, opt for lightweight products that still pack a punch. Outcalt recommends incorporating at least an antioxidant, an Eventone cream to help decrease pigmentation, and of course, an SPF. Just remember to reapply your chosen sunscreen every two hours for extended exposure times.
Remember: Taking care of your skin also means taking care of your whole self; something Outcalt refers to as functional aesthetics.
"I believe skin health is multifactorial; my approach is addressing both internal and external factors," she said. "We can use amazing high-quality products on the outside, but we need to take care of the internal aging factors. Gut health, hydration, a healthy diet, and exercise all improve the quality and function of our skin."
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
This article originally appeared in the Apr/May '25 issue of West Michigan Woman.
