Summer is almost here! As much as we’re all looking forward to being outdoors more, and in less clothing, let’s not forget to take care of our skin this summer. Summer tends to be the time when we grow lax on skincare routines and especially moisturizing. Since we’re stuck inside during the cold, dry months of winter, moisturizing becomes an everyday occurrence and we’re more likely to spend evenings in a face mask and pampering ourselves. In the summer, however, we’re more likely to be out late with a drink on a patio than diligently following our skincare routines. The truth is, you can have it all! We’re here to share with you our 4 secrets to beautiful summer skin.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
We can’t say it enough. Making sure you’re hydrated is the easiest (and least expensive) way to keep your skin looking its best. During the summer months, we lose hydration in our bodies more quickly due to the heat and therefore our sweat. Water can do wonders for your skin year-round but it’s important to keep it in mind during the summer and always have water with you. Whether you’re working out, or laying on the beach, pack a water bottle.
Water can improve your skin tone, heighten your skin’s elasticity, reduce puffiness, and prevent acne, among a whole host of other benefits. Everyone is different, but you should likely be drinking 2-3 litres of water per day to stay properly hydrated.
2. Wear Sunscreen – Protect Summer Skin
You’ve heard it 1000 times, from when you were a child until now. Wear sunscreen. The truth is, sunscreen should be the most important step to your skincare routine year-round! But it is extra important in the summertime when the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays are at their strongest. A broad-spectrum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30 is recommended. A sunscreen with SPF 30 will filter out 97% of UVB rays, which are the main culprit of damaging sunburns. Using sunscreen can protect your skin against premature aging, age spots, wrinkles, sagging skin, loss of elasticity, and skin cancer.
The good news is, more and more daily use skincare products are incorporating sunscreen into their ingredients. You can purchase moisturizers and makeup with SPF 30 and higher. Make sure you’re seeking out the right products for your skin type, and you’ll be covered all day every day, no matter the season. In the summertime, make sure you’re reapplying sunscreen generously throughout the day if you’re spending it outdoors.
3. Exfoliate More
Due to the fact that we sweat more in the summer while wearing makeup and sunscreen, dirt and grime can build up and cause pores to become clogged. Especially if you have oily skin, exfoliating once or twice a week is a great way to open up those pores and cleanse any oil build-up out. Plus exfoliating feel great on summer skin! And remember, beyond face scrubs, there are body scrubs. Signs of aging don’t just show on our faces, so don’t neglect the rest of your body and scrub away in that shower!
4. Keep Moisturizing Summer Skin
It’s easy to remember to moisturize in the winter because our skin, especially on our face and hands, feels like it’s in constant need of cream. Even though your skin may not feel dry in the summer, it’s important to continue your moisturizing routine through the hot and sunny months. Moisturize after cleansing in the morning, even if your skin feels oily.
This doesn’t mean however that you need to use the same moisturizer you use during the colder months. Take the opportunity to switch to something lighter in the summer, and perhaps something with a nice dose of SPF to hit on tip #2 with the same stone. You can even try a tinted moisturizer with SPF which can cover you for sunscreen, moisturizer, and makeup all in one!
While we’re talking about moisture, one last quick tip is to take shorter, lukewarm showers in the summer. We tend to shower more in the summertime and taking long, hot showers can strip your skin of its moisture. Try to take 5-minute showers when you can.
American Regenerative Clinic offers amazing summer facials and treatments personalized for your skin type. Contact us to book an appointment or if you have any questions
