Avene Skincare: Summer Essentials

It’s getting hot in Toronto - muggy, humid and absolutely miserable! Rising temperatures, UV and smog means that it’s time to clarify my pores and switch to lightweight, non-greasy skincare.

One of my favorite things about Avene is their ability to combine active ingredients with natural extracts that are safe for sensitive skin. Each product is infused with healing thermal water and undergoes rigorous testing to eliminate irritants. 

When I get out of the shower, the first thing I do is reach for my body lotion but heavy formulas feel slick and sweaty in the summer heat. Avene’s XeraCalm A.D Lipid Replenishing Body Cream ($36.00) is lightweight and absorbs quickly with no shine or residue. The calming formula repairs, nourishes, hydrates and protects so skin feels soft and renewed.

Apply generously to soothe discomfort, redness, itching and sunburn. It also feels amazing after swimming in chlorine pools or salt water.

Serums usually contain more nutrients than creams so I’ve been using them to prime and moisturize my face before makeup application. DermAbsolu ($62.00) is highly concentrated and infused anti-aging ingredients, hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil and mother-of-pearl to illuminate, lift, smooth, tighten and revitalize. The rejuvenating milk melts in quickly with no greasiness and works wonders on the face, neck and décolleté.

On top of the serum I’ve been testing Avene’s Very High Protection Mineral Fluid SPF 50 Sunscreen (tinted $33.00 and untinted $28.00). These 40 ml pocket size bottles are perfect for road trips and the unscented formulas are infused with powerful antioxidants for long-lasting cellular protection against oxidative stress.

There are very few sunscreens I can use without developing some sort of rash and this is one of them. I prefer the tinted cream because it blends evenly and isn't chalky, heavy or greasy. The matte, water-resistant finish works well under foundation and doesn't clog pores.

After a long day of fun in the sun, a good night cream is essential! Avene’s DermAbsolu Night Balm ($59.00) gives you a radiant glow and layers well with the serum for even more hydration. The packaging is ideal for travel because the jar twists to lock and the rich formula regenerates dull, damaged skin. It also softens, nourishes and redensifies the oval of your face for a toned, lifted profile.

Avene is available at pharmacies and online at beautyboutique.ca