Kelowna summers are here, and like many of you, we can’t wait to enjoy the many activities we’ve waited all year for! As you’re making plans for lakeside adventures, winery visits, and trail excursions, don’t forget to plan for the hotter temperatures, drier climate, and environmental elements that will challenge you and your skin’s health. To keep you feeling radiant in your skin all season long, we’ve put together a handy guide to take you through Kelowna activities and the ways you can protect and support your skin.
Summer Weather in Kelowna: What Can Happen to Your Skin
Kelowna’s summer climate creates specific skin concerns that differ significantly from the rest of the year. The combination of intense UV exposure, higher temperatures, and low humidity can lead to:
- Increased oil production and congestion
- Accelerated collagen breakdown and premature aging
- Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
- Compromised barrier function from environmental exposure
- Dehydration despite increased oil production
Our favourite summer activities often amplify these concerns. Let’s explore how to protect your skin while enjoying what Kelowna has to offer.
Water sports: Making Waves Without the Skin Damage
Whether you’re paddle boarding, wake surfing, or swimming on Okanagan Lake or otherwise, water activities expose your skin to prolonged UV radiation, both directly and reflected from the water’s surface (which can increase UV exposure by up to 25%).
SKIN IMPACTS:
- Increased risk of sunburn and long-term UV damage
- Chlorine and lake water can strip natural oils
- Wind and water exposure can compromise barrier function
PROTECTION & TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Pre-Activity: Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before water exposure. We love Alumier Sheer Hydration for its water-resistant formula and its protection while maintaining hydration.
- During Activity: Reapply sunscreen every two to three hours, especially after swimming. Wear UPF-rated clothing when possible and don’t forget your wide-brimmed hat.
- Post-Activity: Cleanse your skin to remove sunscreen and environmental residue without stripping moisture. We love Colorscience Barrier Pro Cleanser and Alumier Ultimate Boost serum to replenish hydration.
- Treatment: Patients love Aquafirme with red light therapy to deeply cleanse pores and reduce inflammation caused by sun exposure.
Wine Touring: Sipping and Glowing
Exploring Kelowna’s renowned vineyards is a quintessential summer experience. However, spending hours outdoors among the vines can take a toll on your skin.
SKIN IMPACTS:
- Extended sun exposure during peak UV hours
- Free radical damage from the sun and alcohol consumption
- Dehydration affecting the skin’s moisture levels
PROTECTION & TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Pre-Tour: Layer an antioxidant protection beneath your sunscreen to neutralize free radicals. We love Skinbetter Alto Defense Serum and Alumier A.G.E that hydrates and helps protect against glycation.
- During Tour: Be sure to hydrate with water between wine and carry your Colorscience Brush-On sunscreen for reapplication throughout the day.
- Post-Tour: Use a barrier cream (we love Dermamade Ceramide Barrier Cream) to restore your skin’s moisture barrier after a day in the sun. Increase your water intake to counteract dehydration.
- Treatment: Onyx Beauty Lab’s Aquafirme Facial provides powerful antioxidant protection while repairing sun damage and brightening your complexion.
Hiking & Mountain Biking: Elevation without Irritation
Kelowna’s exceptional trail systems offer incredible views, but higher elevations mean increased UV exposure and environmental stress on the skin.
SKIN IMPACTS:
- More intense UV radiation at higher altitudes
- Increased perspiration leading to potential breakouts
- Wind exposure causing sensitivity, dryness, and possible redenning
- Environmental allergens and pollutants adhering to the skin
PROTECTION & TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Pre-Adventure: Apply a mineral-based sunscreen like Colorescience Total Protection Face Shield. Its environmental protection complex shields against both UV and environmental aggressors.
- During Activity: Use oil-absorbing sheets to blot (not rub!) excess perspiration without disturbing sunscreen. Reapply sunscreen.
- Post-Adventure: Double cleanse with Colorescience Barrier Pro or an oil-based balm followed by Alumier Purifying Gel Cleanser to thoroughly remove perspiration, sunscreen, and environmental debris.
- Treatment: Onyx Beauty Lab’s chemical peels improve the complexion by deeply exfoliating the skin, fading dark spots, and combating breakouts.
Join us for Part Two next month, when we explore more of your favourite Kelowna activities and share more tips and treatments to keep your skin healthy, glowing, and protected. For questions or custom plans to suit your needs please consult with one of our skin specialists in Kelowna by contacting us today.
To purchase Alumier products you will need to be associated with a clinic. Please select Onyx Beauty Lab or shop with this link for purchase: https://ca.alumiermd.com/?code=RXABWTZY
