Summertime is the season when people tend to spend more time outdoors. It is important to take care of your skin in this season to prevent problems like sunburn and premature ageing. Fortunately, there are plenty of summer skin care tips that can keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful. It doesn’t even matter how long you decide to stay out in the sun or how many times you fall into the pool.
Here are some simple summer skin care tips to help you keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful this summer.
5 Effective Summer Skin Care Tips
Use sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside
The main purpose of sunscreen is to protect your skin from UV rays. But if you forget to put it on before going outside, you can still apply it afterwards. Just wait 30 minutes or so for it to settle into your skin.
Don’t be surprised if some products require more time than others. Sunscreen sprays and lotions may need an extra five minutes because they are not as heavy as creams. Be sure to reapply every two hours, even if you don’t think you have worn off much protection.
Sunscreen doesn’t just block out UVB rays, it also blocks UVA rays, which cause long-term damage like wrinkles and cancer.
No matter what type of sunscreen you use (chemical-based or physical), look for one with a high SPF rating.
Experts recommend at least SPF 30, but most dermatologists recommend using a product with SPF 50+.
Remember, it is not just about getting tan. Sun damage accelerates aging and increases your risk of developing melanoma later in life.
A quality SPF will cost you more money upfront, but it is worth it when you consider how much better your skin will look and feel over time.
Wear hats and sunglasses
When you are in direct sunlight, your skin is constantly exposed to UV rays from both natural and artificial light.
If you don’t have sunscreen on then you are likely going to get a sunburn. But even if you do wear sunscreen, it can still be harmful to your skin. That is because chemicals in lotions and creams can make your skin more susceptible to UV damage.
To avoid having a bad burn, wear hats and sunglasses whenever possible during summer. These items will keep your skin safe from both natural and artificial light.
Also, try to stay out of direct sunlight between 10 am and 4 pm. This time period is the death zone due to the high concentration of UV rays.
Nourish your skin with moisturizer
The humidity and heat of summer can cause the skin to dry out quickly. Make sure you always use a good moisturizer every morning to keep your face looking healthy.
Look for products that contain antioxidants like green tea extract. Antioxidants are used to treat fine lines and wrinkles by slowing down aging. It also prevents damage from free radicals that come from pollution and sun exposure.
A good moisturizer will help slow down the process of skin aging and keep your skin soft and smooth all day long.
Note: Do not forget to apply it liberally. If you have sensitive skin, look for ingredients such as shea butter or jojoba oil in order to protect your skin.
Take breaks from your makeup routine
Summer is a great time to give your skin a break. You won’t need a heavy foundation or concealer during the summer months. So save them for some special occasions.
A lighter makeup routine will also help you feel more comfortable in hotter weather and work best under natural lighting. During midday, try swapping out your favourite lipstick for a tinted lip balm instead.
And if you want a truly fresh look then leave your eyes bare. That means no mascara is necessary.
Remember: Less is more when it comes to summer beauty. And remember that less time spent on makeup means more time spent outside.
So don’t worry about missing out on something you love doing because of makeup. Enjoy life and let nature do its magic to your face.
Stay hydrated
When you are out in direct sunlight for a prolonged period of time, you may start to notice your skin feels dry or tight. This is because prolonged exposure can cause your body to dehydrate.
If you know you will be in and out of direct sunlight throughout the day, carry a water bottle with you and drink up.
Dehydration makes our bodies tired as well as our skin. When we are tired, our body can’t work as efficiently as it should. And when our bodies aren’t working at their best, so are our skin cells.
When we are well-hydrated we have more energy, which makes us more productive and more likely to take care of ourselves properly.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating is one of the best summer skin care tips because it takes dead skin cells off your face and makes your complexion glow.
If you are already exfoliating, then you are probably aware that it is important to use products designed for your skin type. Make sure you use a moisturizer afterwards so you don’t dry out your face.
Also, try pairing exfoliation with applying cool water or ice cubes over your face as well. This will help lock in moisture after you remove dead skin cells.
There are many ways to exfoliate your face without buying any products at all. You can:
- Use an abrasive sponge while taking a shower/bath
- Use circular motions when scrubbing gently on your face
- Avoid using soap. Use only lukewarm water
- Exfoliate only 1-2 times per week (If you over-exfoliate then you will dry out your skin which could lead to breakouts)
- You can also try exfoliating with pumice stones or rubbing your hands together and then applying them to your face.
- Don’t forget to moisturize afterwards
DIY homemade facial exfoliant recipe
- Mix 2 tablespoons of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or coconut oil).
- Apply in small circles all over your face.
- Rinse off with warm water after 5 minutes and pat dry with a clean towel.
Note: Avoid sensitive areas such as around the eyes and lips.
Conclusion
With a little care and forethought, you can keep your skin looking young and beautiful all summer long. Be sure to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and moisturize every night to keep your skin healthy.
