Hello, glowing community of The Better Normal! You can keep a radiant, healthy complexion all summer by modifying your skincare routine as the days become longer and the temperature rises. A customized summer skincare routine is essential, regardless of the factors causing your drying effects from air conditioning, increased humidity, or increased sun exposure. Here are some tips for maintaining radiant, youthful-looking skin throughout the year’s warmest months.
Understanding Summer Skin Needs
Yes, your skin faces a distinct set of difficulties throughout the summer. Elevated UV exposure can result in solar damage, while elevated temperatures and humidity levels can increase sebum production. This combination frequently results in breakouts and blocked pores. However, extended exposure to air conditioning can dehydrate your skin, leaving it looking lifeless and parched. That’s why it’s really important to take care of your skin throughout summer.
Essential Summer Skincare Tips
- Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: The cornerstone of your summer skincare should be a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously on all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and your hands.
- Switch to Lighter Formulas: Put away the heavy creams used during winter. Opt for lighter lotions or serums that provide hydration without clogging pores. Products with hyaluronic acid are perfect for delivering intense hydration without the weight.
- Incorporate Antioxidants: Antioxidants like vitamin C not only help prevent sun damage by neutralizing free radicals, they also brighten the skin. A vitamin C serum applied in the morning under sunscreen can provide protective and brightening benefits.
- Exfoliate, But Don’t Overdo It: Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and excess oils that can build up more quickly in the summer. However, over-exfoliating can strip your skin of essential oils, leading to more harm than good. Aim to exfoliate 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin type.
- Stay Hydrated: Inside and out, hydration is key. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider a hydrating mist to refresh your face on the go. Look for ingredients like aloe vera and green tea for soothing and hydrating properties.
- After-Sun Care: After a day in the sun, make sure to pamper your skin. Products containing aloe vera or niacinamide can soothe sun-exposed skin and prevent peeling.
Tailoring Your Skincare Routine
- Morning Focus: In the morning, prioritize protection. After cleansing, apply an antioxidant serum followed by a moisturizer and, most importantly, a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
- Evening Routine: Evenings should focus on repair. After cleansing away the grime and sunscreen, use restorative treatments like retinol (but only if you’re not spending extended periods in the sun the next day), peptides, or ceramides to repair and regenerate skin overnight.
Addressing Specific Concerns
- Oily Skin: If you’re dealing with increased oiliness, incorporate clay masks into your routine to help absorb excess oil and purify your pores.
- Dry Skin: For those who experience dry patches even in summer, layering hydrating essences or oils before your moisturizer can provide an extra hydration boost.
It’s not hard to modify your skincare regimen for the summer. You can safeguard your skin and make sure it stays supple and radiant throughout the season with the correct products and a little extra care with regard to hydration and UV protection. Never forget that good skin is always in, regardless of the season! 😉
