Spring clean your face: The all-serum evening skincare routine for a glowing complexion

As the days lengthen and the great outdoors bursts into bloom, it's time to shed the dullness of winter and embrace the radiant glow of spring. But just as nature awakens from its slumber, your skin will need a little TLC to transition. Here's an all-serum evening skincare routine that guarantees to boost your complexion and get it bang on form for the warmer weather.

Channelling the inner glow, this regimen has been curated to leave your face feeling soft and smooth. It will also target areas of concern while ensuring your look captures the glowy trend that is set to dominate this year.

As well as brightening and toning the skin, the routine targets dryness as well as fine lines and dark circles around the eyes. Customised to meet your exact needs, you can tailor this nighttime ritual to deliver optimum results.

Before we get started, it’s important to remember the one essential that will enhance the results you achieve.

Exfoliation: buff away winter's chill

Winter's stinging winds and dry air can leave skin feeling parched and lacklustre. Exfoliation is the single most important key to removing dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, smoother complexion. But that’s not all - regular exfoliation will ensure your skin is primed to absorb the transformative products used in your evening skincare routine.

• Choosing the right exfoliant: Opt for gentle chemical exfoliants containing AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) for a deeper cleanse. They are sometimes marketed as facial peels. Look for one that is quick and easy to use. Physical scrubs with fine granules work well, but avoid harsh scrubbing that can cause redness and irritation.

• Frequency is key: Exfoliate once to twice a week, depending on your skin type. Sensitive skin might benefit from once a week, while oily skin can handle slightly more.

The all-serum evening skincare routine

This regimen uses two targeted serums and a balmy oil hybrid serum to lock them in place. I have developed the routine to boost the suppleness of the skin while brightening it and significantly boosting glow levels. Save your moisturiser for daywear until you have achieved the results you want.

Before using any new products, always carry out a patch test and discard those which suggest irritation. 

In addition, start with a scrupulously clean base. Double cleanse with a balm and then a light gel-based cleanser. Also tone. Use a toner that targets dullness, such as glycolic acid or niacinamide. 

Ready? What you will need and customising your routine.

The serum products I use, but you can tailor your products to develop a customised regimen that will prepare your skin for spring. Full details about how you can do this are ooutlined below. Image: Regime Skin Care

Serum 1 - A caffeine eye serum or similar. I recommend you use the same serum in your morning routine too for more dramatic results. I use The Ordinary Caffeine Solution. 

Serum 2 - A retinol or hyaluronic acid serum (or, preferably, one that combines both). New to retinol? Always start with a low strength serum. If you suffer from dark spots/hyperpigmentation, it is better to use a serum that combines hyaluronic acid and either Vitamin C or niacinamide. Alternativelly, a multi-peptide serum can be used. It’s OK to layer serums, if you don’t have dual products. Just remember to use the lightest weight first.

Serum 3 - 5% Squalane and Grapeseed Oil Serum by Beauty Bay. This hybrid oil serum, which is actually intended for daywear, I think, costs just £10 for a 50ml pump bottle. It forms a light semi-wax veil over the skin, locking in the other serums. It contains Kakadu Oil, which is rich in Vitamin C, and also delivers high-glow. (Don’t worry, you won’t look like a beacon come morning!) If you don’t want to try this product, use a heavy lotion serum instead. Alternatively, you can use Boots’ cheap Peach Glow jelly moisturiser, which will also provide a barrier over the serums and lock moisture in.

You will need to ensure your hair is off your face. Tie it up or use a spa band, and don’t let your hair down for at least half an hour after you have completed the routine. 

Step 1 - Start this routine immediately after cleansing and toning, while the skin is still damp. Gently tap your eye serum into the skin, not forgetting the area to the side of your eyes where crow’s feet can be a problem. Use three or four drops to ensure there is enough product to penetrate the skin’s outer layers. When you have finished, wait one minute and then proceed to the next step.

Step 2 - Apply your targeted and hydrating serum evenly across the face. Use three or four drops. Spend a minute gently tapping the skin to encourage maximum absorption. Wait one minute and then proceed to the final step.

Step 3 - Use two pumps of the Squalane and Grapeseed Oil Serum to finish. Don’t worry about the high shine and slightly tacky finish. Keep your hair off your face until all three serums have been absorbed.

How the hybrid oil serum looks straight out of the pump and the glowy result once it is massaged in

This routine leaves the skin feeling smooth and looking radiant. But, of course, skincare doesn’t stop at night.

Note: If you suffer any irritation, stop the routine immediately and seek professional advice from a dermatologist.

Hydration: quench your skin's thirst during the day

Cold weather depletes moisture, leaving skin dehydrated and flaky. Spring calls for a hydration boost to restore suppleness and elasticity 24/7. So here are some tips for your morning routine. 

• H2O is your hero: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Aim for eight to ten glasses daily. If you struggle to keep up your fluids, invest in a sports bottle that will measure your intake. And, if you can’t stand plain water, consider adding either fresh fruit or a drop of squash. 

• Moisturiser matters: Switch to a lighter, oil-free moisturiser that absorbs quickly. Hyaluronic acid is a superstar ingredient for its moisture-binding properties.

• Layer it up: Apply hydrating serums or essences under your moisturiser for an extra dose of hydration.

• Sun protection: your non-negotiable: Spring sunshine feels glorious, but don't be fooled by the gentle rays. Sun damage can occur year-round, so sunscreen is essential. Use SPF 30 or higher, every day. Apply sunscreen generously to your face, neck and ears. Broad spectrum is best. Choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature ageing.
  

Stay hydrated! Water is a beauty essential.

Lifestyle tweaks for a spring glow

Healthy habits go a long way when it comes to promoting radiant skin. Here are some lifestyle choices to embrace:

• Eat your way to glowing skin: Nourish your body with fruits, vegetables and whole grains rich in antioxidants and vitamins that support skin health.

• Catch those Zzz's: Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night. During sleep, your skin repairs and regenerates itself.

• Manage stress: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your skin. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. Or, if you are like me, chill out with a makeup practice session. Rediscover forgotten products and throw away those that are past their use-by date. 

Spring cleaning for your evening skincare routine

As the seasons change, so should your skincare routine. Here's how to adjust:

Lighten up! Swap out your heavy winter creams for lighter, oil-free moisturisers and gel-based products.

Target specific concerns. Spring might be the perfect time to address lingering winter woes like dry patches or acne breakouts. Look for products with ingredients that target your specific concerns.

Don't forget the lips. The delicate skin on your lips is prone to dryness. Use a lip balm with SPF to keep them protected and hydrated.

Embrace the power of masks. Treat yourself to hydrating or clarifying face masks once or twice a week for an extra boost of nourishment.

Don't neglect your body. Exfoliate and moisturise your body regularly to maintain smooth, healthy skin.

Consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns about your skin or need personalised advice, consult a dermatologist for guidance.

I first developed the all-serum routine to use up over-purchased products - and it worked so well, I’ve kept it up. Towards summer, I will swap out the Step 3 product for a gel-based moisturiser.

By following these tips, you can help your skin transition smoothly into spring, revealing a healthy, radiant glow that reflects the beauty of the season. Remember, consistency is key! Give the all-serum regimen at least ten days to deliver fab results. Tweak it to harness the power of personalised skincare. With a little effort and dedication, you can achieve your best spring skin yet.

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