Spring Skin Reset — Adjusting Your Routine for Sydney’s Changing Season
Quick Answer: In spring, cleanse twice a day with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser, using lukewarm water and your fingertips. Double cleanse in the evening if you wear sunscreen or makeup. As skin gets oilier in warmer weather, many people benefit from switching to a lighter gel or foaming formula.
As the weather turns and UV levels climb heading into a Sydney spring, it’s worth reassessing what your skin actually needs rather than sticking with your winter routine out of habit. Richer creams that felt great in July can leave skin feeling congested once humidity picks up, and sun exposure creeps up fast on the Northern Beaches even on overcast days.
What is cleansing and why does it matter?
Cleansing is the process of removing oil, sweat, sunscreen, makeup and pollution from the skin's surface without disturbing its natural protective barrier. It's the foundation of every skincare routine: serums and moisturisers work best on clean skin, and a cleanser that's too harsh can leave skin tight, reactive or even oilier.
Why spring changes your cleansing needs
Seasonal skin change is how skin responds to shifts in temperature, humidity and UV. In spring on the Northern Beaches, warmer days tend to increase oil and sweat, daily sunscreen becomes essential, and more time outdoors means more build-up by evening. The rich, creamy cleanser that suited winter may now feel heavy.
How to cleanse properly
Correct cleansing technique is as important as the product you choose. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends:
a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser without alcohol
lukewarm (not hot) water, applied with your fingertips rather than a washcloth or sponge
no scrubbing, which irritates skin
rinsing well and patting dry with a soft towel
cleansing twice a day, and after heavy sweating
At Facial Impressions we add one more: take your time. Thirty to sixty seconds of gentle massage lets your cleanser do its work.
What is double cleansing and do you need it?
Double cleansing is a two-step evening routine: a first cleanse to dissolve sunscreen, makeup and oil, followed by a second cleanse to clean the skin itself. It's especially helpful in spring and summer, when you're wearing water-resistant sunscreen every day. In the morning, a single gentle cleanse is usually enough.
How to choose the right cleanser for your skin type
The right cleanser depends on your skin type, and it's worth checking again as the seasons change.
Normal to combination skin: Sothys Vitality Cleansing Milk, with grapefruit extract, removes make-up and daily build-up, followed by Vitality Lotion.
Oily or congested skin: Sothys Purifying Foaming Gel keeps skin fresh and matte. Add Desquacrem Forte twice a week for a deeper clean. It isn't suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for sensitive skin.
Dry, sensitive or dehydrated skin: Sothys Comfort Cleansing Milk, with Spa™ Thermal Water, cleanses without disturbing fragile skin.
Redness or flushing: Sothys Clarity Cleansing Milk and Clarity Lotion, with witch hazel and arnica.
Mornings, any skin: Sothys Morning Cleanser, with camomile and sweet almond, is a gentle start to the day.
If your skin feels tight, squeaky or itchy after cleansing, your cleanser is likely too harsh.
Shop Sothys cleansing online (create a free account to order) or ask us in clinic.
Common cleansing mistakes
Using water that's too hot
Scrubbing with cloths, brushes or grainy exfoliants every day
Rushing, and not removing sunscreen fully at night
Over-cleansing oily skin, which can leave it dehydrated
Sleeping in makeup or sunscreen
Get your spring routine right
A professional facial is a great way to reset after winter, and your therapist can recommend a cleanser and routine for your skin. We stock Sothys professional skincare in clinic, including the limited edition Green Tea & Red Currant Refreshing Cleansing Gel — a micellar gel with the efficiency of an oil and the freshness of water — along with Avocado Zinc natural SPF 50 makeup, a simple way to add sun protection to your everyday base once your skin is clean.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I cleanse my face?
Twice a day — morning and night — is right for most people, plus after heavy sweating such as exercise or a surf. Cleansing more often can dry or irritate skin. Use lukewarm water, your fingertips and a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type.
Is double cleansing necessary?
Double cleansing is most helpful in the evening if you wear sunscreen, makeup or water-resistant products. The first cleanse dissolves them; the second cleans the skin. In the morning, one gentle cleanse is usually enough. If your skin feels dry, choose a gentler second cleanser.
Should I change my cleanser in spring?
Many people benefit from a lighter cleanser in spring and summer, as warmer weather often increases oil and sweat. If your winter cleanser now feels heavy or your skin is more congested, switch to a gel or light foaming formula. Your therapist can recommend one for your skin.
How do I know if my cleanser is too harsh?
If your skin feels tight, squeaky, itchy or red after cleansing, your cleanser may be stripping its natural barrier. Healthy skin should feel clean and comfortable. Try a gentler, alcohol-free formula, lukewarm water, and no scrubbing.
Book your spring skin reset
Book a facial or skin consultation at our Avalon Beach clinic, or call 02 9918 7288.
Book Online
Shop the Sothys Refreshing Cleansing Gel
New clients: Book a Skin Consultation
When to Book Facials Before Christmas
Facial Impressions has cared for skin in Avalon Beach and across the Northern Beaches, including Newport, Mona Vale, Palm Beach and Bilgola, since 1985.
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