The good news: we are days away from gaining an hour of daylight. The bad news is that despite the gorgeous Spring weather we’ve been having in the New York area this week, another nor’easter is on its way. And, since there is nothing my skin loathes more than bipolar temperature changes, incorporating some new Avène formulas is a sure way to avoid parched, itchy, irritated situations. Below are my current obsession-worthy French pharmacy favorites!
Hydrance Intense Rehydrating Serum
The newly upgraded treatment is as lightweight as its Hydrance Optimale predecessor, which I loved, but delivers an even longer lasting boost of oil-free hydration. An ideal addition to your line up when the seasons change, this milky serum is infused with soothing Thermal Spring Water and a skin-restoring lipid complex to strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.
When do I use it? It’s more like when do I not use it. After cleansing day or night, post deep-cleansing mask, and whenever I travel (extra hydration is an in-flight must). It is one of the fastest absorbing serums I’ve encountered and will complement any existing routine. Both indoor and outdoor temperatures are starting to vary vastly, so a daily application of the Intense Rehydrating Serum will keep your skin balanced and comfortable. $38 (1 oz.)
Mineral Light Mattifying Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+
Launching… today actually, the latest sunblock from Avène will make those with oily complexions or prone to acne very happy. Oil and fragrance free, it offers 100% mineral protection without a trace of the dreaded white cast. Infused with patent-pending Monolaurin, a compound with an ability to inhibit excess sebum production, it keeps usually shiny skin, matte for hours.
If your T-zone just never cooperates with daily sunblock (mine could double as a lighthouse), try this latest from Avène, especially as we’re about to transition into warmer, sunnier days. Just last week, we were treated to some borderline summer heat and, I’m thrilled to report that my complexion was still remarkably non-greasy when we sat down to have dinner. That’s major. $28 (50ml)
TriXera Nutrition Nutri-Fluid Cleanser
This soap-free face and body cleanser must be the best thing in our shower at the moment. Extremely gentle, the thick gel lathers just enough to make you feel clean while providing the comfort of a moisturizing oil. Barely scented (no added fragrance), it is a great face and body wash, especially for those who shower more than once a day. While formulated to soothe dry, reactive, and easily irritated skin, it is a universally effective solution that has earned itself a permanent spot in my skincare arsenal. $29 (13.5 oz.)
Does your skin also get finicky in-between seasons? What are some of your tried and true calming forces to tone down redness, flaking or inflammation? I’d love to know!
Explore the entire range at aveneusa.com.
*press samples
