Simplified Summer Skin Care

As the weather gets warmer and we want to spend more time outdoors, no one wants the fuss of maintaining a complicated skin care routine. That being said, it’s still important to take care of your skin, especially if you’re going to be under the sun’s harsh UV rays. Here are some tips for a simplified summer skin care routine that will keep your skin protected so you can get out the door and into summer fun, faster and safer.

Always Use SPF

Never walk out the door without applying SPF first. Experts recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 on any exposed skin. It’s especially important to use sunscreen on your face if you use a product that can make skin more sensitive, like a retinol or a vitamin C product. Look for water-resistant sunscreens if you are going to be swimming or working up a sweat and reapply every three hours. Keep a travel size sunscreen in your purse, pocket, or car to make sure you always have some when you need it. 

Choose Lighter and Multi-Purpose Formulas

You don’t want the feel of heavy creams on your face, or to use several layers of products, with summer’s heat and humidity in full swing. Swap out thick cleansers for gentle foaming options, and choose gel moisturizers over creams. Many moisturizers or foundations offer formulas that include SPF, so invest in one product that does two jobs to help lighten your summer skincare routine. 

Add Vitamin C

Add a few drops of a vitamin C serum in between the cleansing and moisturizing stages of your routine — vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps increase collagen production, improve the appearance of fine lines, and decreases hyperpigmentation. While vitamin C has a lot of benefits for the skin, it does make skin more sensitive to the sun, so make sure you add proper SPF too, or use it as part of your nighttime routine. 

Remember to Exfoliate

Dermatologists recommend exfoliating more often during the hot months, as sweat and oil can clog pores.  

Keep Showers Short

Many people shower more than once a day during the summer. Showering too often or using water that is too hot can cause your skin to become over-dry, which could lead to inflammation and eczema. Keep your showers short and cool. 

Drink More Water

Yes, drinking more water is a summer skin care tip! Staying hydrated is important for healthy skin — it helps protect the skin barrier which keeps skin moisturized and leads to proper cell turnover. 

Stay Protected in the Sun

Here are some general sunny day skin care tips for people of all ages. 

  • Stay in the shade as much as possible – invest in a beach umbrella, parasol or wear a wide-brimmed sun hat to shield your chest, neck, and face from the sun
  • Wear sunscreen, and remember to apply it to the easy-to-forget parts like tips of ears, hands, feet, and any exposed skin
  • If you do get a sunburn, treat it as soon as possible
  • Invest in sun-protective clothing — most have a protection rating factor equivalent to SPF 50+
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