Get Ready for the Sun: Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Skincare
April 7, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in Skin, Summer
Summer skin care is important to keep your skin healthy and glowing during the hot and humid summer months. With the increase in heat and humidity, your skin can become more prone to acne, sunburn, dehydration, and other skin issues. Therefore, it’s essential to follow a proper summer skincare routine to protect your skin from damage caused by the sun, heat, and pollution.
Summer can be harsh on your skin, but with a good skincare routine, you can protect and nourish your skin. Here are some essential summer skincare tips:
1. Hydrate Your Skin
Moisturizing your skin during the summer is just as important as it is during the colder months, as exposure to the sun, wind, and air conditioning can leave your skin feeling dry and dehydrated. Here are some tips for moisturizing your skin during the summer:
- Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer: Look for a moisturizer that’s specifically designed for summer use and that is lightweight and oil-free, which will help prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Gel-based moisturizers are a good option as they can provide hydration without feeling heavy on the skin.
- Apply moisturizer after showering or swimming: When your skin is damp, it’s better able to absorb moisturizer, so it’s a good idea to apply moisturizer immediately after showering or swimming.
- Use a moisturizing sunscreen: Instead of using a separate moisturizer and sunscreen, you can opt for a moisturizing sunscreen, which will provide both sun protection and hydration.
- Drink plenty of water: Drinking water is essential for keeping your skin hydrated from the inside out, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
By following these tips, you can keep your skin hydrated and healthy during the summer months.
2. Exfoliate
Exfoliating your skin during the summer can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can improve your skin’s texture and appearance. However, it’s important to be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate your skin and make it more sensitive to the sun’s rays.
Here are some tips for exfoliating your skin during the summer:
- Choose the right exfoliator: Look for a gentle exfoliating scrub that’s specifically designed for your skin type. Avoid harsh scrubs that contain large particles or abrasive ingredients, as these can damage your skin.
- Exfoliate no more than twice a week: Over-exfoliating can strip your skin of its natural oils, which can lead to dryness, irritation, and even breakouts. Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week, and adjust the frequency based on how your skin responds.
- Avoid exfoliating before prolonged sun exposure: Exfoliating can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s best to avoid it before spending extended periods of time outdoors.
- Follow up with sunscreen: After exfoliating, be sure to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
- Don’t forget to moisturize: Exfoliating can leave your skin feeling dry, so it’s important to follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin soft and supple.
By following these tips, you can safely exfoliate your skin during the summer and keep it looking healthy and radiant.
3. Apply Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an essential part of summer skin care. The sun’s UV rays can cause skin damage, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. To protect your skin, it’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that’s water-resistant and provides broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. You should also choose a sunscreen that’s appropriate for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, look for a sunscreen that’s free of fragrances and other irritating ingredients.
It’s important to apply sunscreen properly for maximum protection. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your ears, hands, and feet, as these areas can easily be overlooked.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Remember that sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow it to fully absorb into your skin.
In addition to using sunscreen, you can also protect your skin by wearing protective clothing, such as hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts. Avoid being in direct sunlight during peak hours, which are typically between 10am and 4pm.
By using sunscreen and taking other protective measures, you can help prevent sun damage and keep your skin healthy and youthful-looking during the summer months.
4. Use Face Mist
Face mists are a great way to keep your skin refreshed and hydrated during the summer months. They can be used throughout the day to provide a quick burst of hydration and help soothe and calm irritated skin. Here are some benefits of using a face mist during the summer:
- Instant hydration: A face mist can provide an instant boost of hydration to your skin, which can be especially beneficial during the hot and humid summer months.
- Soothes and cools skin: Some face mists contain ingredients such as aloe vera or cucumber, which can help soothe and cool irritated or sunburned skin.
- Sets makeup: A face mist can also be used as a makeup setting spray, helping to keep your makeup in place and prevent it from smudging or fading in the heat.
- Refreshes skin: Using a face mist can help refresh your skin throughout the day, making it a great option for those who spend a lot of time outdoors or in air-conditioned environments.
When choosing a face mist, look for one that’s free of alcohol and fragrances, which can be irritating to the skin. Ingredients like aloe vera, rose water, and green tea can be particularly beneficial for soothing and hydrating the skin. To use a face mist, simply spritz it onto your face and neck, holding the bottle about 6-8 inches away from your face. You can use it as often as needed throughout the day to keep your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated.
5. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is important for maintaining healthy skin during the summer months. When you’re dehydrated, your skin can become dry, flaky, wrinkled and irritated. This can also make your skin more prone to sunburn and other damage from UV rays.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is one of the best ways to keep your skin hydrated. You can also eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and berries to increase your water intake. Avoid sugary and caffeinated drinks, as they can actually dehydrate your body.
Additionally, using a good moisturizer can help lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which can help hydrate your skin and restore its natural moisture barrier.
Another way to keep your skin hydrated during the summer is to use a hydrating facial mist or spray. These products can provide an instant burst of hydration and refresh your skin throughout the day. Just be sure to choose a mist that’s free of alcohol and other drying ingredients.
By staying hydrated and using hydrating skincare products, you can help keep your skin looking healthy and glowing all summer long.
6. Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing during the summer can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Here are some tips for choosing and wearing protective clothing during the summer:
- Look for UPF clothing: UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and is a measure of how much UV radiation can penetrate the fabric. Look for clothing with a UPF of 50 or higher, which will provide the most protection.
- Choose loose, lightweight clothing: Loose, lightweight clothing will help keep you cool and comfortable during hot summer days. Look for clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Cover as much skin as possible: The more skin you cover, the better protected you will be. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat to help protect your face and neck.
- Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses with UV protection can help protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Stay in the shade: If possible, stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day to reduce your overall sun exposure.
Remember, even if you’re wearing protective clothing, it’s still important to apply sunscreen to any exposed skin. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. By combining protective clothing with sunscreen, you can help keep your skin healthy and protected during the summer months.
7. Avoid Hot Showers
It’s a good idea to avoid taking hot showers during the summer months, as hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Here are some reasons why you should opt for cooler showers during the summer:
- Prevents dryness: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and itchy. By taking cooler showers, you can help prevent this.
- Cools your body: Cool water can help lower your body temperature, making it a great option for cooling off during hot summer days.
- Reduces inflammation: If you have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, hot water can worsen inflammation and redness. Cooler showers can help soothe and calm irritated skin.
- Prevents hair damage: Hot water can also damage your hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Cooler showers can help prevent this and keep your hair looking healthy.
When showering during the summer, aim for lukewarm water instead of hot water. You can also try taking shorter showers to help conserve water and reduce your environmental impact. After showering, be sure to moisturize your skin with a hydrating lotion or cream to help lock in moisture and keep your skin feeling soft and supple.
By following these tips, you can pamper your skin during the summer months and keep it healthy, hydrated, and glowing. Don’t forget to also get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, and reduce stress to maintain healthy skin.
Natural Remedies During Summer for Healthy and Glowing Skin
There are many natural remedies you can use during the summer to help keep your skin healthy and glowing. Here are a few:
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera has cooling and soothing properties, making it great for relieving sunburns and other skin irritations. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected area for relief.
- Cucumber: Cucumber has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe and hydrate the skin. Cut a cucumber into thin slices and place them on your face or any other areas of your body that need cooling relief.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help hydrate and protect your skin during the summer months. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your skin after showering for best results.
- Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect your skin from damage caused by UV radiation. Brew a cup of green tea and let it cool, then apply it to your skin with a cotton ball for a refreshing and hydrating toner.
- Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and heal skin irritations. Apply a small amount of honey to your skin and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
Remember, while natural remedies can be helpful, it’s important to also take other steps to protect your skin during the summer, such as wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive sun exposure.
Overall
Summer can be a challenging time for your skin, as the heat and humidity can lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and acne breakouts. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause sunburn, skin irritation, and dark spots, which can lead to long-term damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Therefore, it’s essential to follow a proper summer skincare routine to protect your skin from damage caused by the sun, heat, and pollution. This routine should include steps such as using sunscreen, staying hydrated, exfoliating, and moisturizing your skin. Additionally, there are several natural remedies and protective clothing options that can help keep your skin healthy and protected during the summer months. By taking care of your skin during the summer, you can help maintain a healthy, glowing complexion all year round.