As the seasons change, so should your skincare routine. Warmer weather is the perfect time to hit the reset button—not just on your home, but also for your skin. That’s right, spring cleaning your skincare routine is just as important as cleaning your AC vents.
Between heavier winter creams and expired SPF from last summer, your bathroom cabinet might be due for a deep clean.
Here’s how to spring clean your skincare routine so you can put your best face forward this season.
🗑 What to Toss
Get your trash can ready because there might be more to throw away than you think!
Expired Products — Yes, skincare products expire! If a product smells off, has changed color, or has separated, let it go. An old foundation may not hurt you, but nutrient-rich moisturizers and serums lose their effectiveness after being opened. Likewise, tinted makeup can lose its pigment. Most items are only good for 6 to 12 months after being opened. The small jar icon on many products (called the “Period After Opening” or PAO symbol) indicates how long it is good for after opening. If your product doesn’t have the icon, look at this chart.
Old Sunscreens — Like other ingredients, SPF loses potency over time. If you’ve been holding onto last year’s sunscreen, it’s probably not offering the protection you think it is. Toss and replace it with a fresh broad-spectrum SPF 30 or more.
Harsh or Irritating Products — If something stings, burns, or always leaves you red, it might not be right for your skin. Rather than keep it lying around, hoping your skin gets used to it, free up that space for something more suitable for you. Spring is about calming inflammation and restoring balance.
Contaminated or Improperly Stored Products — Store most facial products in a cool, dark, and dry place. Some, like cold-pressed oils and preservative-free products, should even be refrigerated to preserve their shelf life. So, if you’ve been keeping your favorite lotion or toner in a sunny window, you’ve probably unintentionally reduced its effectiveness. Furthermore, if a product becomes contaminated, such as using mascara with an eye infection or leaving liquid products open, get rid of it. Contaminated products can cause way more problems than they’re meant to solve.
💎 What to Keep
Don’t fret! You don’t have to throw everything away, especially if they are within the safe and effective period after opening.
You may not need or use multiple makeup products, fancy oils, or heavy creams, especially during the summer. But these skincare basics should always be in your bathroom!
- Gentle Cleansers — You don’t need to strip your skin to get it clean. A mild, non-foaming cleanser is a year-round keeper, especially as humidity rises.
- Lightweight Moisturizers — Creams and lotions that hydrate without clogging pores are ideal for warmer months. Even if you have oily skin or live in a humid climate, moisturizer is always essential to keep your skin balanced and maintain its vital barrier.
- Vitamin C Serum — This antioxidant powerhouse helps fight sun damage and brighten dull winter skin. Keep using it daily under your SPF.
⬆️ What to Upgrade
Spring cleaning your skincare isn’t just about throwing things out; it’s also a good time to ensure you have the right products and tools to achieve healthy, glowing skin that you’ll feel confident in.
Remember, you don’t have to break the bank to get highly effective products, but quality does matter. Make sure to buy from reputable sellers and brands, and do your research. Reviews are an excellent way to learn about a new product before you buy it.
If you’re looking for a fresh start for your skincare routine, consider upgrading these options first.
- Your SPF Game — Look for an SPF that feels good enough to wear every day, because you should be. Tinted SPFs and formulas with added antioxidants are worth the upgrade because they can do double duty, eliminating the need to layer as many products.
- Active Ingredients — Considering retinol or a chemical exfoliator? Spring is a great time to try new things. (Just remember: less is more!) If you’re unsure where to start, book a skin consultation first. We can help you choose products that meet your skin’s needs and avoid irritating or harmful ingredients.
- Your Tools — That crusty old washcloth and falling-apart makeup sponge? Toss them. Consider upgrading to fresh skincare tools, such as all-new makeup brushes, facial rollers, and silicone cleansing pads.
- MedSpa Treatments — If you’ve never gotten a professional facial or chemical peel, you’ll be blown away by the results. Start small with something like a HydraFacial or Microchanneling + LED Therapy for healthier, more youthful-looking skin. Or, if you want to discuss more dramatic results, ask us about Botox and Dermal Fillers.
Ready for a Fresh Start?
Spring cleaning your skincare can make a big difference in how you look and feel. Throwing away expired products and uncleanable makeup sponges will help your skin avoid breakouts, dullness, and irritation.
Plus, adding new active ingredients and facial treatments to your routine can lead to brighter, healthier, and more glowing skin.
If you’re unsure what to keep or toss—or just want expert eyes on your skin’s health—schedule a consultation with us.
We’ll help you create a simple, beneficial plan that matches your skin type and goals.
Call today to book your personalized skincare reset appointment!
