By Adriana Ermter
When it comes to skincare, a no-nonsense approach is exactly what you need. Let’s face it: summer is not the time to get all fancy with your routine. Between juggling a busy work, BBQ and pickleball schedule, along with the desire for simplicity, a few streamlined steps work best. And the experts at Vitabiotics, a U.K.-based vitamin company, agree. They also believe they can get you there. Following an interview with award-winning aesthetic practitioner skin expert, Flavio Refrigeri, the Vitabiotics experts have six great tips to help you get your skin in shape for summer and beyond.
Know your skin type, because one size doesn’t fit all
Flavio exclusively tells Vitabiotics, “The foundation of any good skincare routine is understanding your skin type. Are you oily, dry, sensitive, combination, or acne-prone? Each type has its own needs and using the wrong products can actually make things worse. Getting your products right from the beginning sets you up for success – and makes your routine much more enjoyable.”
For oily skin: “Look for lightweight, oil-free products with ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid to help balance sebum production.”
For dry skin: “Focus on hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and gentle cleansers that don’t strip your natural oils.”
For sensitive skin: “Avoid heavily fragranced products or harsh scrubs, and opt for soothing ingredients like aloe vera, panthenol, or allantoin.
Your skin changes with age, so your routine should too
“What worked in your 20s won’t necessarily work in your 40s. As we age, our skin’s needs evolve – so it’s important to adapt,” Flavio explains.
In your 20s: “This is the time to build good habits. Focus on cleansing, daily SPF, and preventing breakouts. Vitamin C serums can help fight early environmental damage.”
In your 30s: “Your skin’s collagen production begins to slow. Introduce ingredients like peptides and antioxidants to support firmness and brightness. Eye creams or lightweight retinols can help keep fine lines at bay.”
In your 40s and beyond: “Hydration and repair are key. Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) can help with cell turnover, while ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and Omega-rich moisturisers help to maintain elasticity and plumpness. Remember, aging is natural and healthy, well-cared-for skin is achievable at any age.”
Keep it simple, because consistency beats perfection
“A simple routine you can stick to is far more effective than an elaborate one you abandon after a week. At minimum, aim to use:
- A gentle cleanser, morning and night
- A daily moisturiser suited to your skin type
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or above every day
The key is to be consistent. Skincare is a marathon, not a sprint – real results take time and commitment. Be patient with the process.”
Don’t follow trends. Follow what works for you
“Social media is packed with skincare trends, miracle products and influencer recommendations. But what works for someone else might not be right for you. Rather than chasing viral products, take a personalised approach. If you’re unsure where to start, speak to a skincare professional at a chemist or a dermatology clinic. Even a one-off consultation can help you understand your skin better and avoid wasting money. Skincare is personal – treat it that way.”
Skin has good days and bad days, and that’s normal
“Your skin is a living, breathing organ. Just like your mood, energy, or fitness, it can fluctuate depending on lifestyle, stress, diet, sleep, weather, and hormones. Don’t panic over the occasional breakout or rough patch. Instead, stay consistent with your routine, listen to what your skin is telling you, and avoid the temptation to pile on harsh products in response.”
Take care of your skin from the inside too
“You can apply all the right products – but if your lifestyle’s out of sync, your skin will show it. Hydration, sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet play a huge role in skin health. Taking multivitamins can help safeguard your nutrient intake without having to take multiple individual tablets, and can help support overall health and vitality.”
Flavio’s final verdict?
“Healthy skin doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen when you take small, consistent steps that suit you. Whether you’re 25 or 85, your skin deserves more than a one-size-fits-all bottle. Summer is the perfect excuse to start, and the best time to commit to looking and feeling your best.”
