Janey Loves Summer 2018

This article first appeared in our summer ’18 issue of MyGreenPod Magazine, The Natural Revolution, distributed with the Guardian on 03 Aug 2018. Click here to subscribe to our digital edition and get each issue delivered straight to your inbox

In summer we’re exposed to the elements: the sun’s shining hard this year, meaning most of us are spending more time outside. No one wants to look like a leathery, weather-worn antique, so how do we keep the summer glow and care for our skin?

Remember we need good food – not just to eat, but for our skin. If you eat nutrient-dense foods and apply skincare that’s rich in nutrients, you really will see the benefits.

Nourish from the outside in

It’s hard to find anything more nutrient-packed than the Inlight Line Softener Intensive (£78, 28ml). It’s been formulated to nourish and stimulate the skin’s collagen production and regenerate deep lines, to leave your skin more radiant and smooth.

There are some seriously powerful ingredients inside, too: chlorophyll-rich spirulina and barley grass, plus argan and bitter cherry oils to help mop up free radicals. I met the founder, Dr Spiezia, who is passionate about his blends of botanical oils. This is a gorgeous product.

Sometimes in the summer all you need is a tiny bit of serum. Africology Anti-Oxidant Serum (£39, 30ml) is bursting with active ingredients like antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and peptides to give you a radiant complexion. It’s great to use around the delicate eye area and the lips, especially in summer when that area can feel dry.

Give your eyes some definition with the excellent Lengthening Mascara from NATorigin (£15.95), with extracts of red algae, shea butter and jojoba oil. It’s great for sensitive eyes and perfect for me as a contact lens wearer.

Many of us are lacking in vitamin D so it’s important to catch some rays. But for the times you’re exposed, try the 3 in 1 suncream, insect repellent and moisturiser from incognito (£24.99). It contains natural and organic ingredients and is free from DEET, irritants, parabens and SLS.

DIY Fruit smoothie mask

Aside from all the exotic ingredients in your natural skincare products, don’t forget humble food. They do say don’t put anything on your skin that you can’t eat, so use leftovers wisely! In addition to drinking your green juice and fruit smoothies, treat your skin to a power-packed mask. Here’s a quick and easy fix for dehydrated skin.

• 2 teaspoons of oatmeal
• 2 teaspoons of mashed strawberries (any fruit
  pulp will do)

Mix into a paste and massage into damp skin. Rinse off with warm water.