We have enjoyed some warm and sunny weather recently and it certainly puts a smile on all our faces. With the clocks changed too we can look forward to walking in the evening or even contemplating dining al fresco. The good weather makes a real difference to how we feel.

However, after covering up for the cold winter we need to do an audit on our skin condition. The Beauty Boutique in Rathwood has five top tips to make sure your skin looks fresh and dewy. This article selects products from the comprehensive skin care range Dermalogica.

Tip 1

Develop a skincare routine

Cleansing, toning and moisturising is the basis of every good skincare routine all year round.

We recommend double cleansing to ensure all make up, pollutants and debris are removed from your skin.

Follow with a toner to remove any excess cleanser and to replenish and nourish the skin after cleansing

The Beauty Boutique recommends: Dermalogica precleanse, Special cleansing gel, Multi-active toner

Tip 2

Exfoliate.

When skin is not exposed to the sunshine it can become lacklustre and dull. We shed skin all the time and we need to remove it. Exfoliation of the face is so important to keep your skin looking its best, and to ensure all other products can penetrate efficiently!

After exfoliation is the perfect time to use a mask so your skin will really glow!

The Beauty Boutique recommends : Daily Microfoliant, Multivitamin thermafoliant, Skin resurfacing cleanser

Tip 3

Hydrate.

Once you have your squeaky clean skin then apply hydrating creams.

Find an eyecream and moisturiser that suits your skin type and ensure you use it morning and evening, boosters and serums work very well under moisturisers and can focus on a specific skin concern – eg hydration, ageing.

Another top tip is to use a toning spritz during the day to refresh your skin. Keep a bottle handy at your desk in work or in your car.

The Beauty Boutique recommends:   Skin Hydrating Booster, Multivitamin power serum, phyto-replenish oil

Tip 4

Hydrate with water.

Your body is made up of 90% water and yet we rarely drink enough during the day. At your desk have a bottle (preferably one that you can refill - those new aluminium flasks are very trendy and eco friendly). Or have a pint glass filled with water to hand. Make it easy to take constant sips during the day. This would be one of our top beauty tips – drink water!

The Beauty Boutique recommends: At least 2 litres of water a day.

Tip 5

Sun cream – lots of it.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that one application of sun cream is enough. In Ireland we forget that harmful UV rays can still affect our skin even when it is cloudy. Always use a sun protection along with your moisturiser!.

Then if you are actually sunbathing reapply your sun cream every couple of hours and stay out of the sun if possible between twelve noon and 2pm. Even in cloudy Ireland the harmful rays are most dangerous to your skin during those two hours.

The Beauty Boutique recommends: Super sensitive shield spf 30, Solar defense booster spf 50