Spring time is almost upon us. Flowers are starting to bloom, trees are returning to green, the sun is shining more, spring fashions are in all the shops, and even online games are becoming spring themed! Unfortunately, however, your skin might not be ready for summer just yet.

Winter time can be harsh on your skin. More makeup over the holidays, as well as greasy or fatty comfort foods, can lead to greasy skin and spot breakouts. Then, cold, bitter wind can leave your skin sore, red and dry. So, as well as spring cleaning your house and changing your wardrobe, as spring arrives, make sure you give your skin a bit of extra care.

Here are some of the best ways to ensure your skin is looking great in time for summer…

Cleanse

Removing your makeup is the first step to helping your skin stay in top condition. Sleeping in your makeup quickly leads to clogged pores, blackheads and spots. Be sure to take your makeup off before bed and wash your face in the morning.

Moisturize

Winter weather can dry your skin out horribly, especially on your hands! Be sure to moisturize your skin after every shower to keep your skin soft and hydrated. This will also help it retain its elasticity, helping you stay wrinkle free for longer. For dry hands, our favorite remedy is Zim’s Max Crack Cream! This all-natural multi-use liquid herbal formula will soften and moisturize even the driest skin. It is recommended for nighttime use but can be used throughout the day as well. You can use it on your hands, feet, elbows, knees and cuticles. This stuff works GREAT! The secret behind this amazing formula is Arnica Flower Extract and Myrcia Oil. Check out these

For more tips on keeping skin moisturized, check out these 5 all natural products to combat dry winter skin.

Mind Your Makeup

Dirty makeup brushes and sponges are one of the leading causes of acne. You may think your face is clean when you put your makeup on, but if you touch your makeup up throughout the day, you are covering your brushes with bacteria. The bacteria then grows and spreads over your face, clogging pores and wreaking havoc. Keep your brushes clean by washing them at least once a month. Then, be sure to throw away any old or expired makeup. It is especially important to discard old mascara. Eye infections like Pink Eye and conjunctivitis are not fun!

Sleep

Sleeping gives your body a chance to recover from the day. This includes your skin. Don’t get enough sleep regularly and you’ll soon have dark circles, puffiness and lines around your eyes. A powerful eye serum like Osmosis Refresh Eye Serum will help combat these symptoms because of its proven ingredients that increase collagen and elastin as well as to firm and protect the delicate layers around the eye. Every woman needs this eye serum on hand, no only because it improves skin’s elasticity which reduces lines around the eyes, but it decreases puffiness and lightens those dark circles that every busy mom tends to get.

Don’t forget that nothing beats a good night’s sleep though! Your old mattress may be getting in the way of you getting a good night’s rest. We found the perfect mattress and the perfect sheets to give you your best sleep ever!

Drink Water

Water is as important as sleep. Not just for your skin, but for your whole body. Keep your skin hydrated and stretchy by drinking eight glasses of water every day. This will also help keep your skin acne-free and looking brighter. Use a hydrating foundation to help skin stay hydrated and camera-ready.

Exercise

Exercise is a fantastic way to boost your circulation and maintain or achieve a healthy weight. Getting outdoor exercise, such as running, will also help keep your skin glowing and rosy.

Exfoliate

Exfoliating once a week helps to clear your pores and remove any trapped dirt and grease. Exfoliate your face using a mild exfoliator like St. Ives Apricot Scrub, preferably from the same brand as your cleanser, to avoid adding too many chemicals to your routine. For the rest of your body, use a gentle bristle body brush to unclog pores, remove dead skin cells and boost your circulation.

Having great skin is a fantastic way to boost your confidence, as well as helping you to look great. A great skincare regime doesn’t need to be time consuming or expensive. Simply following these tips and making a few small changes to your day to day routine can have some fantastic results, keeping your skin bright and soft, all year round.