Yes, summer is the perfect time to relax, kick back, and bask in the sun’s warmth. But it’s also the time to amp up your skincare regimen. The sun’s UVB and UVA rays could damage your skin year-round but could be particularly harmful during the summertime when you’re most exposed to them when enjoying the park, beach, or lake.
In this light, here are no-nonsense skincare tips to get you through the summertime.
Pack Sunscreen
Slather on sunscreen, with an SPF of 30 or higher, at least 30 minutes before you expose your skin to the sun. Repeat every 90 minutes. Take note that even waterproof sunscreens could lose their edge when you towel off after swimming, so reapply as needed. Don’t forget to put sunscreen on the ears and at the back of the neck.
Eat Well
You’re probably well aware of how important a healthy diet is to keep your skin healthy. Help stimulate collagen production by eating antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy green veggies, citrus fruits, and melons. Likewise, egg whites and salmon are great protein sources that can help repair damage and nourish your skin. Also, hydrate, hydrate, and hydrate round-the-clock.
Take Extra Care of Your Face
Dry skin highlights wrinkles and lines, so make sure to hydrate your face to avoid looking washed-out and dull. Consider using serums and moisturizers with hyaluronic acid for deep, non-greasy hydration and vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that repairs sun-damaged skin and safeguards the skin from environmental stressors.
Also, if your foundation has, for example, an SPF of 15, and your sunscreen (which should be applied before foundation) has an SPF of 30, don’t think that you are getting SPF 45. In reality, you’re only getting SPF 30. An added perk, however, is that your sunscreen will help with smoother foundation application.
Replace Razors and Shavers More Often
Summer outfits usually call for bare bikini lines, armpits, and legs, in turn, more frequent hair removal, so it’s best to replace razors weekly. Tired of temporary hair removal results? Consider hair removal services for longer-lasting results.
Exfoliate and Moisturize Regularly
Basking under the sun could do wonders for the soul. However, it could also damage the skin. Besides sun protection, you should also exfoliate and get rid of dead skin cells with a mild exfoliating body wash and put on lotion while your skin is still damp. Exfoliate at least three times a week.
Don’t Forget Your Lips
The lips are actually common areas for lip and skin cancers due to extended and unprotected sun exposure. Always apply a lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher every two hours or as needed. Also, consider wearing lipstick with sufficient SPF or a lip conditioner that contains antioxidants and SPF under your lipstick or balm for added protection and hydration.
So whether you are driven by beauty, health concerns, or both, look to these summer skincare rules before you go out. And yes—even if you’re hanging out in your garden.
