As the mercury continues to rise, renowned aesthetics specialist Dr Kersh shares her 10 tips to taking care of your skin this summer.
Vogue Arabia, January 2024. Photo: Arved Colvin Smih
For many, summer may just be the best season of them all. Days stretch longer, balmy nights ask to be enjoyed outdoors, and the Middle East’s scorching heat inspires all to take a break from busy schedules to plan relaxing getaways.
One major aspect of self-care during the summer that ends up being taken for granted, however, is skin protection. SPFs — when remembered — may make it into your holiday suitcase, but there’s much more to summer skincare than you may have originally thought. Cue Dr Suha Kersh, co-founder of Dubai-based cosmetic and medical clinic, 23MD.
With years of experience under her belt — loyal clients across the globe — Dr Kersh counts herself among the leading specialists in the field of aesthetics and skin health. Thanks to her holistic approach to health and beauty, her patients have come to love her for her knack for giving skin a natural and fresh appearance, by way of a unique 4-D approach that addresses everything from wrinkle distribution and volume loss, to the overall health of the skin. Given her expertise, it was only a matter of time before Vogue Arabia got in touch to glean a few skincare hacks for the summer.
Below, Dr Kersh shares her ultimate guide to ensuring the beauty and health of your skin as the mercury continues to rise over the coming months. Take notes.
Photo: Courtesy 23MD
Deep hydration
Hydrate with hyaluronic acid skin boosters. Consider hyaluronic acid injections like Profhilo to deeply hydrate your skin from within, improving elasticity and creating a reservoir of moisture that helps combat dehydration caused by high temperatures. Treatments containing hyaluronic acid can provide an instant moisture boost, keeping your skin plump and radiant.
Regenerate
Boost skin regeneration and protection with polynucleotides. Repair and rejuvenate skin by promoting collagen production and enhancing elasticity, preparing your skin to better withstand the harsh summer climate.
Cleanse
Make hydra facials a part of your beauty routine. Regular hydra facials keep your skin cleansed, exfoliated and hydrated, providing an excellent foundation for the summer months. This treatment removes dead skin cells and infuses hydrating serums, ensuring your skin is refreshed and ready for the heat.
Exfoliate
No matter which way you look at it, your pores will get clogged. Whether it’s from free radical exposure, heavy SPF application, or caked on makeup. Combat clogged pores from home with gentle exfoliation twice a week. Regular exfoliation will remove any dead skin cells, increase cellular turnover and achieve brighter looking skin.
Nourish
Stock up on antioxidant-rich creams: Incorporate creams and serums rich in antioxidants like vitamins. These products protect your skin from free radical damage caused by UV rays, pollution, and other environmental stressors. Boost your protection by 700% by pairing with SPF.
Recover and repair
After the summer, your skin will need intensive hydration and repair. Our secret? Polynucleotides. Repair sun damage, boost collagen production, and winter-proof your skin with this revolutionary treatment. Truly a cure-all, polynucleotides even help address uneven pigmentation or texture issues caused by sun exposure.
Skincare starts at home
Use products with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to replenish lost moisture and restore the skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid serums such as Hydracool are deeply nourishing and AQ active serum uses stem cell technology for repair.
Protect
You’ve heard it before: SPF, SPF, SPF! Swear by daily use of broad-spectrum sunblock of at least SPF 30 religiously — every single morning, with reapplication every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors. Look for formulations that are water-resistant and provide UVA and UVB protection.
Shield
Wide brim hats and sunglasses aren’t just a fashion statement, they shield our skin against sun exposure. Sun-proof your skin with protection from both, product and protective clothing (now shopping isn’t just for fun, it’s a safety measure!).
Feel beautiful from the inside out
The most important item in your makeup bag is truly a good night;s sleep… and a colorfully stocked fridge, along with constant hydration. Staying healthy, hydrated and well rested are the foundations of wellness from the inside out. Get 8-9 hours of sleep, drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin and body hydrated, and maintain a healthy and varied diet full of vegetables, fruits, complex carbohydrates and proteins.
