We all think of spring as a time of renewal – just look at the amazing butterflies around right now! Our skin needs to emerge from its cocoon of intensive winter moisturizer and lip balm. After months of alternating between heated, dry indoor air and harsh cold weather outside, our skin is ready for a shift in seasonal skin care. Wake it up from its winter hibernation with these great steps to radiant springtime skin!

1. Hydrate
Drinking more water is part of every eating program, workout and skin care routine. That’s simply because it does wonders for the body! Skin cells like those of any other organ require water to function properly. Water also helps your skin maintain its elasticity, which means its fighting the signs of aging.

2. Eat Fresh Fruits and Veggies
One great way to get more water into your day is by snacking on fresh fruit and veggies. Fruits and vegetables are a delicious snack and are packed with the water your system needs – plus vitamins and nutrients. Some great choices include lettuce, broccoli, grapefruit, carrots, apples, and watermelon. Citrus fruits have been found to be especially good for skin health.

3. Exfoliate
A first step on the path to glowing skin starts with sloughing away that layer of winter. Skin cells constantly regenerate but our heavy winter clothing makes it harder for dead skin to effectively exfoliate. Give yourself a full-body exfoliation using a strong but gentle scrub. Scrub all over, especially those spots that are prone to rough patches – knees, elbows, feet, hands and back. Most body scrubs are too rough to use on your face, so turn to a face-specific product to exfoliate your more delicate skin. Always follow with moisturizer to nourish!

4. Lighter Moisturizer
While you probably were using a thicker, heavier moisturizer from in the winter but those products can be too heavy as the weather warms. Switch to a lighter moisturizer to keep your skin healthy and hydrated without weighing it down.

5. Wear Sunscreen – Even on Cloudy Days
Sunscreen isn’t just for the beach. Harmful UV rays are present even on overcast days. Defend your skin! Wear sunscreen, to protect your skin from sun damage. Stick with a lightweight product that won’t clog pores. Try using a moisturizer or makeup that contains UVA/UVB protection.

6. Exercise
Exercise increases blood flow, which helps maintain healthy skin cells. Happy skin cells lead to happy skin! Don’t be limited to the gym … 30 minutes of yoga in the yard or a brisk walk in the warmer nighttime air with your kids or dog are great options.

7. Spring cleaning includes your makeup brushes!
As you clean cupboards and closets, don’t forget your cosmetic products. Makeup brushes and sponges build up dirt and bacteria. Sanitize your tweezers, clippers and make sure all of your makeup brushes are clean. Need a timesaving tip? Take your brushes in the shower and use body wash to clean them and give them new life. Gently wash your brushes with a natural cleanser, then lay them flat to dry for 24 hours. Be sure to clean your loofah, and check the medicine cabinet for expired products while you’re at it.

8. Inspect the labels in your home
The cleaning products used around your home become airborne parts of your environment – and get absorbed into your skin. Our skin is being exposed to any harsh, toxic chemical ingredients they might contain. Be sure to read labels and seek out natural alternatives such as organic products and simple homemade solutions, like vinegar and baking soda.

It’s time to help your skin shed its winter coat and uncover a fresh springtime glow! Bliss on Broadway offers full service treatments for your skin, body and mind. Call us at 562-439-4333. http://www.blissonbroadway.com/