Festival season is exciting for fans to see their favorite artists and assemble their friend groups for fun-filled activities.
Warm weather, clear skies and sunshine are the ultimate combination for a perfect summer day. While festivals can be an experience, the aftermath of participating can take a toll on the skin. Excessive sun exposure, dust and sweat can leave a person’s canvas dehydrated and irritated. Acne breakouts and sunburn are the most common skin conditions that festival goers often endure afterward.
Post-festival skin care is important to heal and rejuvenate the skin so that it can return to its natural glow. 21Ninety gathered advice from skincare expert Dr. Regine Mathieu about how to restore the skin after exposure to intense climates.
21NINETY: What are the best ways to treat sun-damaged skin for those returning from environments exposed to sunlight for extended periods such as festivals?
DR. REGINE MATHIEU: The most effective way for treating sun-damaged skin is prevention…I always recommend applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30—the more, the better. It’s also important to reapply throughout the day. Additionally, seeking shady areas and avoiding long periods of direct sun exposure are key. Otherwise, stick to a gentle skincare routine if you have a sunburn or any skin irritation. It’s important to give your skin time to heal before returning to your routine.
21N: How can a person prevent sweat pimples and acne breakouts from happening during the hotter seasons?
RM: It is a common misconception that sweat and “dirty skin” causes acne. Hot weather, humidity and sweat can lead to hyperactive oil production, which results in clogged pores. So, while it doesn’t cause acne, it can definitely increase breakouts. It is important to use lighter cleansers and moisturizers. Incorporating ingredients that treat acne, such as salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acid, and benzoyl peroxide, in your skincare routine is also great at keeping breakouts at bay.
21N: How can people change their makeup routine to limit further skin irritation and damage when outside at festivals?
RM: Ensuring that your makeup does not clog pores is key. While it may seem intuitive that makeup products should be formulated this way, not all are.
21N: Are there any product recommendations or ingredients that help protect the skin against hot climates, dust, dirt and other natural elements found at festivals?
RM: Use lightweight products, cleanse your skin with gentle moisturizer as soon as you are no longer in harsh environments and apply sunscreen.
This article has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.