Summer Skincare: Essential Tips for a Radiant Season

We are officially deep into summer. The hot and sunny days call for some extra care and attention to keep your skin healthy, radiant, and protected. So here are some essential summer skincare tips — what to switch up, what to avoid, and keep in mind — that will help keep your complexion healthy without discomfort in the challenging weather!

Switch To Lightweight Moisturizers

When the weather gets hot (or especially when it’s humid) bid farewell to heavy creams. Opt for lightweight moisturizers that will provide hydration without feeling greasy or sticky. Water-based formulas absorb quickly and won't clog your pores. While ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera will become your summer skincare allies to quench thirsty skin.

Sunscreen, Your Skin's Best Friend In All Seasons

Regardless of the season, sun protection is an essential step for healthy skin. But during summer times, the UV rays are getting stronger, and we also tend to spend more time outside, or sweat and swim away the applied protection. Make sure to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen generously to all exposed areas, including your neck, arms, legs, and even feet. And remember to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Similar to moisturizers, pick a lightweight, non-greasy formula so it won't leave residue or an uncomfortable sticky feeling on your skin.

Leave The Heavy Oils Behind For a While

While facial oils can be a saving grace in colder months, they will feel heavy and greasy on the skin during summer. That doesn’t mean you can’t pick up any oils during your skincare routine these months. Lighter oils like jojoba or grapeseed oil will absorb quickly and won't weigh down your skin. If you don’t want to skip this step, these oils will still provide nourishment without clogging your pores or causing breakouts, leaving your skin balanced and refreshed.

Avoid Alcohol-Based Products

Alcohol-based products can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. During summer, when your skin is already battling dehydration due to the heat, it's best to steer clear of products containing high concentrations of alcohol. Instead, choose gentle, alcohol-free alternatives that soothe and hydrate your skin.

Be Mindful of Acidic Skincare Ingredients

Certain skincare ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, causing an increased risk of sunburn and skin damage. Ingredients like retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and certain essential oils, such as bergamot or lemon, fall into this category. If you're using products with these ingredients, consider adjusting your skincare routine for the summer or opt for nighttime use. And always remember to wear sunscreen on top of them during the day, regardless of the products you use.

Hydration, Inside and Out

Summer heat and outdoor activities can quickly dehydrate your skin. Ensure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Hydrated skin is healthy skin, so make it a habit to sip on water regularly. Incorporate hydrating foods into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, and leafy greens, to boost your skin's hydration from within. Besides dull skin, this will also help keep away potential headaches or health issues caused by the heat.

Soothe and Refresh with Mists

Keep a refreshing facial mist in your bag to combat the heat and instantly rejuvenate your skin. Look for mists that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, which provide a cooling effect and help calm any redness or irritation.

Be Gentle With Exfoliation

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and allows your skin to absorb products better. However, be cautious during the summer months, as over-exfoliation can leave your skin vulnerable to sun damage. Choose gentle exfoliators with ingredients like fruit enzymes or gentle acids, such as lactic acid or papaya extract. These products will slough away dead skin without causing irritation or sensitivity.

As you fully embrace the summer season, don't forget to tweak your skincare routine to address the specific needs of your skin. By following these essential summer skincare tips and avoiding heavy oils, alcohol-based products, and photosensitizing ingredients, you'll be well on your way to maintaining a radiant complexion all summer long. Enjoy the sun confidently while keeping your skin healthy and protected!