9 Essential Skincare Tips for Summer

While the weather is beautiful during the summer months, it can be difficult on your skin. Everything from more sweat and acne to burns and hyperpigmentation can occur in the summertime. Therefore, it’s important that you learn some summer tips for healthy, glowing skin, including:

1. Always wear sunscreen.

Sunscreen shouldn’t be optional, especially during the warmer months. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher serves as a barrier between your skin and harmful UV rays. Be sure to reapply sunscreen throughout the day to minimize sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

2. Utilize lighter skincare products.

When you sweat, dead skin blends with the toxins purged from your pores and every product lingering on your skin. Therefore, it’s best to use lighter products that still provide coverage but won’t clog your pores.

3. Apply vitamin C.

In addition to using sunscreen, applying vitamin C topically helps fight the free radicals responsible for skin damage. Simply apply your product immediately after your daily or nightly cleanser and you’re all set.

4. Properly hydrate.

It’s important to protect your skin from the inside out. Consuming water and healthy fats naturally adds a protective layer of protection that will keep your skin hydrated and refreshed.

5. Respond to sunburn immediately.

Maybe you forgot to pack sunscreen or didn’t anticipate being outside for as long as you were. If you’re sunburned, the best thing you can do is treat it immediately. Aloe vera, as well as ice packs, are great natural burn relief solutions.

6. Exfoliating is your friend.

Even using gentle cleansers and sunscreens on a daily basis will cause buildup. When you add in the dead skin and sweat, you need some gentle exfoliation to keep your skin clear. Start with once per week and if this is not enough, gradually increase to avoid irritation and over-exfoliation.

7. Lighten up on makeup.

If you’re an avid makeup user, you’ll be pleased to know you won’t have to eliminate your makeup completely. However, you should use much less to make it easier for your skin to breathe. If you use a heavier foundation for better coverage, consider using a powder foundation for similar results.

8. Continue moisturizing.

Keep in mind, SPF is not a replacement for moisturizer. After you cleanse your face and apply toner, rub a thin layer of moisturizer onto your skin to reduce dryness. If you can, use a dual moisturizer that contains an SPF of 30 so you get adequate protection throughout the day.

9. Get some sleep.

Rest improves the strength of your skin’s protective barrier and reduces aging. Squeeze at least eight hours of sleep into each day of summer fun.

Schedule a Consultation

As a plastic surgeon, Dr. Daniel Q. Richardson MD believes in taking care of your summer skin to help prevent aging signs and preserve your health. If your seasonal skincare changes don’t help, seek professional care as soon as possible. Call our office or contact us online to set up your consultation.