A change in season should mean a change in your skincare routine. Don't worry though, you don't need a dramatic overhaul, just a few tweaks. Here are our top spring skincare tips...

1. Wear sunscreen

If you haven't been wearing sunscreen in winter (naughty naughty), now's definitely the time to start. A good rule of thumb is: if it's daytime, wear sunscreen. Make sure you choose a reputable brand though, as recent controversy has revealed that some sunscreen brands are not as effective as they claim. Look for a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

2. Lighten up your moisturiser

Most of us require a heavier moisturiser in winter, as the dry air in the cooler months dehydrates skin, so it makes sense to switch to a lighter lotion in spring – higher humidity levels mean skin won't dry out as easily. If you generally have dry skin all year round, stick with your richer moisturiser and see how you go – if your skin starts to become oily, make the switch.

3. Spring-clean your skin

Exfoliation is a good idea all year round, but since you'll probably be exposing more skin in spring, it's time to give it a little extra attention. Dry body brushing is a great way to increase circulation (for firmer skin), loosen dead skin cells (boosting radiance) and stimulate lymph drainage (encouraging the release of toxins).

Before you get in the bath or shower, brush your entire body with a natural-bristle brush in long strokes directed towards your heart. Alternatively, use a granular scrub product in the bath or shower for similar results.

4. Cleanse gently

If you've been using a cream cleanser in winter, you may want to switch to a lighter, milder gel formula in spring that cleans your skin without leaving any oily residue on your face.

5. Be allergy alert

Apart from sneezing, nasal congestion and watery eyes, spring pollen allergies can also cause an even more unpleasant condition called rhinitis dermatitis, which entails swelling, dryness and itchiness around the eyes and nostrils – the symptoms can be very similar to eczema. If you're affected, antihistamines will help, as will only using hyperallergenic skin products, preferably ones that are natural and/or organic.

6. Keep spots at bay

The warmer weather in spring can cause certain hormones to become more active, resulting in increased oil production. Couple that with the higher levels of pollen and (depending on your area) dirt in the air around this time of year, and you've got prime conditions for a pimple or two (or three or four)!

Make sure to cleanse regularly to remove excess sebum and drink plenty of water as dehydration can also contribute to clogged pores. You may also want to apply a cleansing, pimple-preventing facial mask as an added precaution.

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