We all know Memorial Day weekend is the “unofficial” start of summer. With that comes barbecues, going to the beach or pool, vacations, and way more time outside. For those of us coming out of a long and cold winter, it also means shedding layers anxious to feel the warmth of the summer sun on our skin.
Shifting Seasons
Imagine you are sitting outside, relaxing, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin. It feels heavenly, right? You are slowly forgetting the long days of winter and all that comes with it, including what may seem like a losing battle over your dry skin. Summer will be less harsh on your skin. Your skin will need less attention. If you are one of many who think that, you are not alone, but sadly, it’s not the case. The seasons may have shifted, but your skin still needs just as much attention as it did during winter. Summer skin care is still important, it just looks a little different.
It’s why I would like to share with you some tips for your summer skin care to keep it glowing in the warm, summer sun.
5 Tips for Your Summer Skin Care
1. Moisturize
We all know winter can do a number on our skin. We moisturize during the winter to keep our skin from becoming dull and flaky. Once summer is here, it may not seem obvious to continue moisturizing, but you should continue to do so even in the summer.
We lose a lot of fluids during the summer, especially when we sweat. The summer sun is also harsh and dries out our skin. It is important to not skip out on moisturizing, especially after bathing, to help seal moisture in. Even if you have oily skin, you should still moisturize in the summer, as this may be a sign from your body that your skin is dehydrated. For those of us who are sensitive or don’t prefer the heat of the summer sun and stay inside, air conditioning can also dry out your skin. So don’t forget to moisturize, moisturize, and moisturize. Your skin will thank you.
2. Sunscreen
Your summer skin care routine should also involve sunscreen. You should apply sunscreen to protect your skin in the summer and you should do so regardless if you are outside or inside. Don’t forget key areas like your hands, feet, behind the ears and lips. There are plenty of options out there when it comes time to find the sunscreen most suitable for your skin and its needs.
3. Exfoliate
One to two times a week only, you should include exfoliating into your summer skin care routine. The heat of the summer sun and the body sweat that comes with it in addition to layers of sunscreen can make your skin oily. Exfoliating gets rid of the layers of sweat and grime and products we put on our skin. It is extremely helpful to remove dead skin and help regenerate your skin cells. It is best to exfoliate in the morning and be sure to moisturize after.
My body polish collection is the perfect fit for your summer skin care exfoliating needs. They are sugar based scrubs and come in a variety of scents. They will leave your skin feeling smooth, supple and hydrated.
Exfoliating Body Polish | Serendipity Bath & Body
4. Hydrate
Our bodies lose a lot of moisture in summer when we are out in the sun and sweating. Just like we take care of our skin from the outside in by moisturizing, exfoliating and using sunscreen, we also need to take care of it from the inside. Keeping yourself properly hydrated with fluids like good old fashioned water or drinks with electrolytes is optimal during the warm days of summer. It is vital for your summer skin care to stay hydrated and avoid the effects of dehydration on your skin, such as itchy and/or dull skin to name a few. So, drink up!!
5. Protective Clothing
The days start to get a little warmer and not long after, we start dressing lighter. Gone are the turtlenecks and thick, winter sweaters. Now we see tank tops, shorts and swimsuits. We are all too excited to shed those winter layers. But, what this does is expose our skin to the harsh sun. For your summer skin care, opt for protective clothing during the summer. Here is a great article when it comes to understanding protective clothing.
Sun Protection Clothing: How to Choose UFP Clothes | REI Co-op
Also utilize wide brim hats, sunglasses and/or sun visors to protect your skin. There are a lot of options when it comes to protective clothing and who doesn’t enjoy a cute hat in their favorite color.
You Know Your Skin
Ultimately, you know your skin best. It is my hope you use the tips above as a starting off point for your summer skin care routine. I recognize we all have different skin types, and only you know your skin and what works best. So, go out there and enjoy those summer days, but don’t leave your skin behind, let it shine!