Skin Care Tips for the Summer

Skin Care Tips for the Summer

Much ado has been made of the summer “glow” we all get during the summer, but the harsh reality is the season of sun can be brutal on your skin. It’s crucial to take care of your outermost layer during this time of year, as the sun’s UV rays, higher temps, and the chlorine from endless pool time can be very detrimental. We’re also more prone to breakouts during this time of year, which is no fun when you want to hit that party in your new sundress and flawless skin. Read on for skincare tips for the summer that’ll give you a gorgeous glow that’s truly healthy.

5 Skin Care Tips for the Summer

1. Wear Sunscreen

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but you might be surprised how many people skip this step on overcast days or late in the afternoon, thinking their skin isn’t going to be affected. Sure, there are hours when the sun is at its most damaging, but the truth is you can still get a sunburn late in the day. And overcast days are sneaky, as those are when your skin is most susceptible! Err on the side of caution by not only applying sunscreen 30 minutes before going in the sun but also by reapplying every two hours, especially if you’re going in the water. There are also UVB-resistant clothes you can wear and, of course, the wide-brimmed hat goes without saying! Pro Tip: If you didn’t avoid the sunburn, sip some red wine, as the resveratrol in it has an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. You’re welcome, oenophiles!

2. Stay Hydrated

We all know water is great for our complexions, and this is even more so the case during the summer. Make sure to get your eight glasses per day and also bear in mind that alcohol and caffeine are dehydrating, so ease up on the poolside Mojitos. Many people are often tempted to also shun moisturizer during the summer because their skin doesn’t feel as dry and also in order to avoid breakouts, but this is counterproductive, as your skin needs that moisture during the sunny season. You can also use a facial mist. As this InStyle article notes, African Red Tea Facial Mist not only cools skin down but it strengthens the outermost layer—a true win/win.

3. Banish Breakouts

There is something about summer that makes us want to look our best from our head to our toes—probably because there is more exposed! This is why summer acne breakouts are even more discouraging. And the hard part is our skin is more prone to breakouts during the summer. As Willbrook, IL, dermatologist Jessie Cheung explains in this newbeauty.com article, “We sweat to cool off, but irritants like dirt, dust, and oil stick to the sweat and can cause clogged pores.” And because a bacterium that causes acne thrives in an oily environment, summer’s sweaty skin can create the perfect (ugh!) a pimple. If you’re prone to breakouts—particularly during the summer—give your skin some extra TLC. Sometimes, your pimples are caused by more than sweat. Swollen cystic pimples can cause frustration and pain, and may require the help of a skin care professional.

4. Slough Off Summer’s Dead Skin

When you hear “exfoliate”, you likely only think of your face, but you should ideally exfoliate your whole body during the summer, concentrating on knees and elbows. The only danger of exfoliation is that it feels so good—particularly on our faces—we can be tempted to want to do it every day! Experts warn that this is not the way to go, as too much exfoliating is like sanding down wood (think of that on your skin!) and can cause broken blood vessels. Stick to one or two times a week. You’ll know if you’re exfoliating too much if you experience redness or irritation.

5. Eat Well

Again, this has a sort of “duh” factor to it but, because our skin is so prone to get damaged during the summer, it’s even more important to fuel it with a lot of fruit and veggies. Melon is often recommended and, more specifically, many dermatologists are big fans of cantaloupe for its antioxidant and hydration effects. Bonus: It’s dee-lish! Eat well with deliveries from HelloFresh to make life easy.

Follow these summer skincare tips and you’ll be the talk of the town for your exuberance.