Category: SPF

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Repairing Summer Skin Damage: Melasma, Dryness & Sensitivity 

As summer winds down, many of us notice new or worsened skin concerns — from stubborn patches of melasma to an increase in dryness and sensitivity. Sun exposure, heat, and environmental stressors can compromise the skin barrier, making it the perfect time to focus on both repair and protection. 

Melasma: When Hormones Meet Sunshine 

Melasma often presents as brown or grey patches on the face and can be stubborn once it develops. It is commonly triggered by hormonal changes – such as during pregnancy or with oral contraceptive use – which make melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) more active. Sun exposure worsens the condition, as UV radiation further stimulates melanin production, and a genetic predisposition often plays a role. 

  • Why summer makes it worse: Increased UV exposure drives melanocytes to overproduce melanin, causing existing pigmentation to darken and new patches to appear. 
  • What helps: Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50 is non-negotiable to prevent further darkening. For targeted treatment, dermatologist-led options like the Klira Special can help fade existing pigmentation by combining prescription-strength actives (e.g., azelaic acid, tretinoin, and hydroquinone where appropriate) into a formula tailored to your skin. 

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) 

Not all pigmentation after summer is melasma. PIH happens when the skin responds to inflammation (acne, eczema flares, or even insect bites) by producing extra melanin. This is more common in darker skin tones, where melanocytes are naturally more active. 

  • Why summer makes it worse: Heat, sweat, and UV prolong redness and irritation, which can make marks darker and slower to fade. 
  • What helps: Gentle skincare that calms inflammation and reduces irritation, alongside daily SPF. A Klira Special can be personalised to include anti-inflammatory and pigment-suppressing ingredients for faster improvement. 

Dry & Sensitive Skin After Summer 

Long days outdoors, sunscreen re-application, chlorine, and travel can disrupt the skin barrier. Signs include flaking, redness, tightness, and increased sensitivity. 

  • Why it happens: UV exposure and heat accelerate water loss from the skin, while salt water and chlorine strip away natural oils. 
  • What helps: Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser, such as the Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser, layer in a soothing moisturiser, and keep SPF in your routine (yes, even as the days get cooler). 

Barrier Repair & Sensitive Skin Ingredients 

Barrier damage is one of the hidden costs of summer. Once the lipid barrier is weakened, skin becomes more reactive. To restore resilience, look for these dermatologist-approved ingredients (all of which are in the Klira Special): 

  • Ceramides: the actual lipids (fats) that make up ~50% of the skin barrier; applying them directly replenishes what’s been lost, locking in moisture and sealing out irritants. 
  • Hyaluronic Acid: restores hydration levels. 
  • Azelaic Acid: calms inflammation and gently evens pigmentation. 

Building a Post-Summer Routine 

This structure ensures you’re protected during the day and repairing overnight: 

Morning 

  1. Gentle cleanser
  2. Moisturiser (optional)
  3. Broad-spectrum SPF 50
  4. Makeup (optional)

Evening 

  1. Gentle cleanser 
  2. Soothing moisturiser 
  3. Klira Special (for melasma/photo-damage repair) 

Professional Treatments Worth Considering 

Sometimes skincare alone isn’t enough. Under professional guidance, certain treatments can complement your at-home routine: 

  • Chemical peels: help shed pigmented skin cells and refresh dull, uneven tone. 
  • IPL or Q-switched laser: may improve resistant pigmentation, though caution is needed with melasma as lasers can sometimes trigger rebound pigmentation. 
  • Tranexamic acid: can be prescribed topically or orally in select cases; it reduces melanocyte overactivity and helps calm inflammation. 
  • Hydroquinone: the gold standard pigment-suppressing agent, but only for short-term use under medical supervision. 

Always consult a dermatologist before starting in-clinic or prescription treatments to ensure safety and effectiveness. 

️ Protect + Repair Going Forward 

SPF every day: A lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen is the cornerstone of both melasma control and barrier recovery. 

Personalised treatment: A Klira Special provides prescription-strength repair for pigmentation and photo-damage, with dermatologist oversight. 

Hydration support: Look for ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to replenish skin barrier function. 

Final Takeaway 

Your skin has been your shield all summer –now it’s your turn to shield and restore it. The right approach is not choosing between protection and repair, but combining both every day. 

Daily SPF prevents new pigmentation from setting in. 

Tailored repair (like the Klira Special) fades existing marks and restores balance. 

Barrier support with hydrating ingredients builds long-term resilience. 

By starting now, you’re not just treating the after-effects of summer – you’re future-proofing your skin for the months ahead. Healthy, even, and resilient skin is achievable when you protect and repair in tandem. 

References 

  1. British Association of Dermatologists. Melasma [Internet]. London: British Association of Dermatologists; 2024 [cited 2025 Aug 21]. Available from: https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/melasma 
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The Right Way to Apply Your Face SPF (and the Common Mistakes to Avoid)

SPF is the single most important product in your skincare routine when it comes to protecting your skin from damage, premature ageing and pigmentation. But are you applying yours properly? Even the best SPF can’t do its job if it’s not used the right way. 

At Klira, we believe your skincare routine should be based on real science – with recommendations that suit your unique SkinSize™. We help you find the right product for your skin needs. But before you even get to product choice, technique matters. Here’s how to apply your face SPF properly to get the full protection promised on the bottle. 

1. You’re Probably Not Using Enough

The biggest mistake? Not applying enough. SPF protection levels (like SPF 30 or SPF 50) are based on lab testing, which assumes the correct amount is used. If you under-apply, you’re not getting the protection stated on the packaging. A general guide is two full finger lengths of product for the face and neck combined.

2. Don’t Rub It Between Your Palms First

It might feel natural to rub SPF between your hands before applying, but this just means half of it ends up absorbed by your palms – not your face. Apply to your hands first and scoop with your fingers.

3. Think Patting, Not Smearing

To get an even film of protection across your face, pat the SPF in gently rather than smearing it around. You’re aiming to create a uniform layer that shields every area of skin.

4. If in Doubt, Go in for a Second Layer

Worried you’ve missed a patch? Simply apply a second layer. SPF works best when applied generously and evenly. It’s better to double up than leave gaps in your protection.

5. Let It Dry Before Makeup

Your SPF doesn’t need to “penetrate” the skin – that’s not how it works. But it does need time to set and form a protective film. This happens very quickly – allow a minute or so before applying makeup.

6. Don’t Miss These Forgotten Areas

Certain areas get overlooked all the time, make sure you cover: 

  • The tops of your ears 
  • The bridge of your nose 
  • The glabella (the area between your eyebrows) 
  • Your neck – SPF should always be taken down to the neck 

These exposed spots are just as vulnerable to sun damage as the rest of your face. 

Discover the Right Skincare for Your Skin 

Knowing how to apply your SPF properly is important, as is choosing the right SPF for your skin. Your SkinSize™ analysis takes the guesswork out of your skincare routine, with expert recommendations based on your skin’s needs. 

Take the SkinSize™ test today to understand your skin on a cellular level. 

Our Dermatology Team will review your SkinSize™ Analysis, medical information, and photos to decide which ingredients you will receive in your bespoke formula.