Summer is the season of sunshine, beach days, and backyard barbecues, but it’s also the time of year when your skin is at its most vulnerable. Increased sun exposure, heat, humidity, and outdoor activities can wreak havoc on your skin if you’re not careful. Fortunately, you can enjoy this summer season while maintaining healthy, radiant, and protected skin by making some small but meaningful changes to your skin care regimen.
Never Skip the Sunscreen
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, depending on your skin tone and sun sensitivity, you may want to start at an SPF of 50. For maximum protection it’s best to reapply every two hours, or after swimming or exercising. Don’t forget about frequently forgotten places like the tops of your feet, ears, and back of your neck.
Time Your Sun Exposure
Limit direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are most intense. If you are outside during these hours, use protective clothes, helpful accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and of course sunscreen.
Hydration Is Key
Aim for eight glasses of water or more each day – in fact, a reusable water bottle may just be your best friend this summer. Consuming hydrating snacks like cucumber and watermelon also keeps your skin hydrated and happy.
Adjust Your Facial Skincare Routine
Make the switch to gel-based cleansers and lightweight, oil-free moisturizers. Your skin usually produces more oil in response to higher temperatures and humidity levels, which clogs pores and leads to breakouts. Steer clear of thick lotions that could clog your pores by retaining all of your perspiration and oil.
Stay Cool and Dry
Wear breathable clothing and change out of sweaty attire as soon as possible to avoid heat rashes and fungal infections like athlete’s foot. This often occurs when sweat cannot effectively evaporate, and friction from the clothing exacerbates the situation.
Watch for Skin Changes
Check your skin for new or changing moles on a regular basis. If something looks to be problematic, consult a dermatologist. Keep an eye out for indicators such as asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, or moles larger than a pencil eraser. Because UV rays are a primary cause of skin changes and sun damage builds up over time, being watchful throughout the summer months is critical for early detection and prevention of skin cancer.
Beach & Pool Skincare Essentials
Summertime activities can be harmful to your skin, whether you’re splashing in saltwater or diving into chlorine pools. While saltwater may cause flakiness or itching, chlorine can dry out and irritate the skin. After swimming, it’s essential to rinse with fresh water as soon as you can and use a mild, moisturizing cleanser afterwards. Remember to moisturize after swimming to restore lost hydration, particularly after spending a lot of time in the sun. One clever method to stay hydrated and protected while on the go is to pack a little skincare kit in your beach bag.
Summertime fun doesn’t have to come at the expense of healthy skin. Your skin can remain hydrated, protected, and glowing throughout the summer with the proper routine. Visit Sweet Nothing Spa for ultra-hydrating facials and keep your skin glowing and safe all summer long. Book your appointment today!