Taking care of our skin is a must, no matter the season. However, when summer heat rolls in, our skin calls for a little extra attention. To help you keep it healthy, glowing, and happy throughout the entire season, we've gathered 7 simple yet effective summer skincare tips. So, grab your sunscreen, and let's dive in!
Prioritize SPF
Wear sunscreen! This step is particularly crucial during the summer months when the sun's rays are stronger than ever. Apply UV protection daily to all exposed skin areas, such as your face, lips, neck, chest, ears, and hands. Experts recommend using broad-spectrum products with an SPF of 30 or higher. Among the popular picks are Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 55, ShadeDrops SPF 30 by Summer Fridays, and Black Girl Sunscreen's Broad-Spectrum SPF 30. Don't forget to reapply your sunscreen every couple of hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming. You can also consider taking supplements that enhance UV light protection.
Use Lightweight Products
When winter arrives, we tend to switch to thick moisturizers and creams to combat dryness. However, during summer, those same formulas might be a bit too heavy for our skin. That's why it's important to opt for lighter alternatives. Look for oil-free moisturizers and water-based serums that provide hydration without weighing your skin down. Here are a few examples: Shani Darden's Weightless Moisturizer, Laneige's Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer and The Ordinary's Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum.
Wash Your Face Properly
Prioritize cleansing like never before. Due to rising temperatures, sweat and excess oil can clog your pores, leading to unwanted breakouts. So, take the time to find a good cleanser that suits your skin type, and make it a habit to wash your face twice a day. By sticking to a regular cleansing routine, you can say goodbye to impurities, keep acne at bay, and enjoy a fresh and radiant skin.
Don’t Skip Exfoliation
Give your face a gentle scrub once or twice a week to remove dirt and dead skin cells. Just remember not to go overboard, as too much exfoliation can lead to irritation, tightness, and dryness. Opt for a mild scrub or explore chemical exfoliants for a smoother complexion. Gently massage the product in circular motions, paying attention to your lips and neck as well. And, of course, be sure to give your sunburned skin time to heal before reaching for the scrub.
Soothe & Cool with Aloe Vera
Despite your best efforts, sometimes sunburns happen. Whether it's because of using a not-so-great SPF or forgetting to reapply it on time. That's where soothing and cooling products come to the rescue! Look for skincare goodies enriched with aloe vera and cucumber. These ingredients are known for their calming, healing, and hydrating effects. They work wonders in relieving the discomfort caused by sunburn and overheating, providing instant relief when you need it most. And here's an extra bonus: aloe vera and cucumber are bursting with antioxidants, helping you maintain that youthful glow. Aloe-infused products such as Vaseline's Aloe Soothe Lotion, Sun Bum's After Sun Cool Down Gel, and Clinique's After Sun Rescue Balm are excellent options to consider.
Don’t Forget About Your Scalp
Remember, underneath those gorgeous locks is a scalp that deserves special care, especially during the summer when it's most vulnerable. Before going outside, wear a stylish hat or spritz on a specialized sunscreen spray to shield your scalp from the sun's harmful rays. Another tip is to try out hairstyles that keep your part covered, minimizing direct sun exposure. Also, don't neglect the cleansing and exfoliation of your scalp. Maintaining a healthy scalp environment is very important!
Vitamin C is a Must-Have
Vitamin C is a must-have ingredient in your summer skincare routine. Not only does it protect your skin from harmful UV rays and environmental factors, but it also reduces wrinkles and gives you a radiant glow. To supercharge your skincare, look for face masks and serums that feature vitamin C as a star ingredient. Don't forget to nourish your body from within by incorporating vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli into your diet.
