Bermuda summers can be hard on the skin. Weeks of sunshine, salt water, chlorine and humidity can leave your complexion looking dull, dehydrated and uneven by the time August arrives.

According to Karissa Burrows, aesthetic nurse and owner of Lux Aesthetics, those changes are completely normal, but they shouldn't be ignored.

“After a Bermuda summer, skin can look very different from how it did at the start of the season. Some of the most common signs I see are dehydration, dullness, uneven texture, congestion and increased pigmentation or sun spots.”

One misconception she frequently encounters is that only dry skin becomes dehydrated.

“Even oily skin can be dehydrated. In fact, sometimes that dehydration can cause the skin to compensate by producing even more oil.”

She says if your skin suddenly feels tight, rough, more sensitive than usual, or your usual products begin to sting, it's often a sign that the skin barrier needs extra support.

Ms Burrows says one of the biggest mistakes people make during the summer is focusing so heavily on controlling oil and breakouts that they unintentionally damage their skin.

“People often over-cleanse, over-exfoliate or use too many strong active ingredients during the hotter months, which can leave the skin dehydrated and compromise the barrier.”

She also reminds clients that sunscreen isn't a one-and-done product.

“With our level of sun exposure and a lifestyle that often includes swimming and sweating, reapplication is so important.”

As summer winds down, she encourages people to focus less on stripping the skin and more on replenishing it.

“Think hydration, antioxidants and ingredients that support the skin barrier, while continuing to be consistent with sun protection.”

When it comes to restoring post-summer skin, Ms Burrows recommends ingredients that replenish moisture and strengthen the skin's natural barrier.

“I love ingredients such as hyaluronic acid for hydration, ceramides and lipids to support the skin barrier, antioxidants to help defend against environmental stress, and gentle enzymes to refresh the complexion without unnecessarily stripping the skin.”

For clients looking for an in-clinic reset, she often recommends a Hydrating Enzyme Facial to gently remove dull surface build-up while restoring hydration. For those needing more intensive treatment, skin boosters can improve hydration and overall skin quality.

“The key is assessing the skin first and choosing treatments according to what it actually needs rather than jumping straight into the strongest treatment available.”

Although the goal is healthy, balanced skin, Ms Burrows says the approach should always be tailored to the individual.

“Oily skin still needs hydration. Dry skin usually needs more replenishment, while combination and sensitive skin often require a more customised approach focused on balancing and repairing the skin barrier.”

“Skincare really shouldn't be one size fits all, which is why a professional skin assessment can be so valuable.”

As summer comes to an end, Ms Burrows hopes people don't pack away their sunscreen with their beach towels.

“In Bermuda, sunscreen isn't a summer product. It's an everyday skincare essential. UV exposure doesn't disappear when the temperature drops or when the sky is cloudy.

“Consistent sun protection helps prevent premature ageing, pigmentation and cumulative UV damage, and it's especially important when you're investing in professional treatments or using active skincare ingredients. And don't forget areas like the neck, chest, ears and hands.

For anyone looking to refresh their skincare routine before autumn, Ms Burrows believes consistency is far more important than complexity.

“You don't need a bathroom cabinet full of products to have a good skincare routine.”

She recommends a gentle cleanser, hydrating or antioxidant serum, moisturiser and SPF 30 or higher each morning. In the evening, cleanse thoroughly before applying a targeted serum and moisturiser. Exfoliation should be based on your skin type rather than used every day.

“More isn't always better when it comes to active skincare. Don't wait until your skin looks damaged to start protecting and hydrating it. My favourite approach is always to protect, hydrate and support the skin first.”