There are three skin care actions to take no matter what the temperature is outside – exfoliate, moisturize and block UV rays. Just like during winter, taking care of your skin is a priority in the summer season. When outdoor air is hot and humid you can develop dry, dehydrated, irritated skin. The biggest culprits are spending time in the sun, environment/pollution, swimming pool, and air-conditioning.
When it comes to caring for your skin, temperature matters. Increase in temperatures during the summer months, combined with humidity and heat, can increase the activity of the sebaceous glands. This makes oily skin appear oilier and dry skin appear rough and patchy. Ingredients in your skin care products matter too. Products containing shea butter can help protect the skin from UV sunlight and harsh temperatures.
Hot temperatures in summer require exfoliating, moisturizing and protecting the skin. Sweat and skin oils can clog pores. Products containing sugar cane extract can keep pores open and help eliminate blemishes. Exfoliation removes dead, dulling skin debris to prevent congestion and improve hydration from toners and moisturizers. Moisturizing with a hydrating, water-based body cream can help provide long-hasting hydration.
Make water your best friend. Keep yourself hydrated from the inside out and apply moisturizer to keep yourself hydrated from the outside in.Shower and shampoo immediately after getting out of the swimming pool, using fresh, clean water and a natural, mild cleanser and exfoliate. After exfoliating, moisturize and apply sun screen. I know this sounds repetitive but it’s this repetition of exfoliating, moisturizing and applying SPF that will keep your skin healthy and glowing through the summer months.
If your skin burns, DNA in your skin cells have been damaged. Apply 30-50 SPF sunscreen with a broad ultraviolet spectrum. This will defend your skin from sun damage for approximately two hours. After that, sunscreen should be reapplied. If you are swimming or sweating a lot, apply more often.
Summer means that you should ease up on the makeup. Wear minimal facial makeup to allow the skin to breathe better. Humidity and heat suppress the skin’s ability to breathe and stresses it out. Avoid anything heavy on the face. Use a matte day cream, tinted moisturizer, a vegan lip treatment, tinted lip balm, and protective eyewear this summer to give your skin some rest.
What we eat has a lot to do with how we look and feel. Go for seasonal fruits, vegetables and natural juices to feel fresh and stay away from sugary drinks.
Wearing loose, natural-fiber clothing and a hat during summer will protect your skin as well. Lastly. . .
. . . Have a great summer!
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