Summer is a time for beach days, barbecues, and pool parties— not hours spent trying to re-optimize your skincare routine. However, some of us find that the excess heat and humidity that summer brings can mess with the process that has worked well through the other seasons. The best course of action is to keep doing what you’re doing, follow these summer skincare tips, and make changes to your routine as needed.
Summer Skincare Tips
If you’re wondering how to take care of your skin in the summer, we have five tips and tricks for you. Don’t forget to talk to your dermatologist about any questions you may have or to get their product recommendations, depending on your skincare concern.
1 - Protect Yourself From UVA and UVB Radiation
This is, perhaps, the most important thing that you can do for your skin during the summer months. In states where the sunlight is more harsh and intense, your risk for ultraviolet radiation damage is higher. Dermatologists recommend that you stick with a physical blocker— these sunscreens include ingredients like zinc and titanium.
2 - Don’t Skip the Moisturizers
Even if it’s humid outside, your skin still needs direct moisturizers to combat the heat. It might be tempting to skip your moisturizer in your daily skincare routine, but most dermatologists will recommend against it. If you have to switch to a lighter, less intense moisturizer during the summer months, do so; just don’t eliminate moisturizing products entirely.
3 - Cover Up in Intense Sun
The best, most sure-fire way to prevent skin damage and sunburn is to cover your skin. If possible, avoid being outside in direct sun during the most intense hours of daylight, from about ten in the morning to two in the afternoon. If you must be outside during this window, don your wide-brimmed hat, toss on a long-sleeve linen shirt, and stay in the shade as much as possible. Excess, unprotected sun exposure may not cause an issue right now, but you may regret it later in life as you start to see signs of aging.
4 - Drink Plenty of Water
There are a plethora of reasons why maintaining a proper intake of water is essential— especially during the summer. Just one is that it’s an extremely important part of your skincare routine for the summer. Without water, our bodies will prioritize essential internal functions, to the detriment of our skin, so staying hydrated is a must. Carry a reusable bottle with you wherever you go; find one that you enjoy drinking from. If you really despise plain water, try adding fruit or drinking seltzer water.
5 - Make a Change to Your Skincare Regimen
Generally speaking, it’s best not to make changes to something that you know works. However, if summer rolls around and you’re starting to notice excess oil or dry patches, you might need to tweak the products in your lineup. If in doubt, reach out to your dermatologist for recommendations based on your symptoms; don’t forget to switch back to your original skincare lineup when fall arrives.
Summer is often synonymous with fun adventures and time with loved ones— don’t let it also become synonymous with sunburns and damaged skin. Set your routine now and add in a back up plan— like our rejuvenating Skin Recovery Cream— in case you are met with any damage like sunburns, so that you’re ready to tackle the summer!