With summer just around the corner, it's time to get ready for the warmer weather. Whether you're jetting off on vacation, setting sail on the water, or packing for a day trip under the sun, make sure to adjust your skincare routine. This will keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Incorporating these helpful steps now will be beneficial even after the season ends.
Lighten Up Your Skincare
Switch from oils to serums. Opt for hydration without the heaviness by choosing lighter moisturizers with a thinner consistency. Water-based or oil-free formulas are ideal as they restore the skin’s moisture barrier without feeling thick or greasy. Heavy moisturizers can weigh the skin down and become uncomfortable, especially in hot and humid weather, as oils mixed with moisture can clog pores and lead to buildup. However, always select products suited to your skin's specific needs. For instance, if you have dry skin, a heavier moisturizer may still be appropriate in the summertime. Adapt your skincare routine accordingly and listen to your skin's signals.
Simplify, Simplify, Simplify
Using too many products can lead to breakouts and unexpected reactions. Summer is the perfect time to simplify your routine and let your natural glow shine. My skincare philosophy is: Cleanse, Treat, and Protect.
- Cleanse: Remove impurities from your skin. A clean complexion provides the perfect canvas to maximize the effectiveness of your treatments.
- Treat: Address specific skin concerns with a targeted serum, whether you're dealing with hyperpigmentation, breakouts, sun damage, rosacea, or signs of aging.
- Protect: Sun protection is essential. A moisturizer with SPF will restore and shield your skin without the need for an extra product. I recommend the Hydratint BB SPF 44, which combines a moisturizer, SPF, and BB cream into a fantastic 3-in-1 solution!
Fewer products mean more money and time for summer fun!
Exfoliate
With increased heat and humidity, sweat production rises, leading to more buildup and clogged pores. Exfoliating dirt, impurities, and dead skin cells is crucial to:
- Reveal fresh-looking skin
- Allow products and active ingredients to penetrate better
- Reduce breakouts, pigmentation, and blackheads
I recommend exfoliating your face 1-2 times a week unless you are using a gentle exfoliant like Exfoliating Cleanser or a serum like Azelaic10, which can be used daily. Be sure to listen to your skin; over-exfoliation can disrupt the skin barrier and cause irritation and breakouts. For more information on exfoliation, check out my YouTube video below.
Don’t Skip the SPF!
During summer's long days, you're exposed to more UV rays at a higher UV index. Protecting yourself from the sun is crucial, especially if you're headed to the beach, a picnic, or a business event. If you're exfoliating, it's even more important to apply SPF, as exfoliation makes your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Be sure to apply a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher every morning before heading out.
I recommend a comprehensive moisturizer with built-in sunscreen as an excellent way to simplify your skincare routine. A tinted moisturizer with SPF, like Hydratint BB SPF 44, offers a 3-in-1 solution that protects the skin from discoloration and hyperpigmentation. Its iron oxide content protects against HEV rays from windows and device screens. Formulated with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, it leaves my skin with a smooth, filter-like appearance and works great as a primer under makeup.
Be sure to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially after spending time outdoors. UV Clear is perfect for reapplication, as it comes in a convenient brush dispenser. For optimal protection, reapply at least every two hours when enjoying outdoor activities.
Don’t Forget Your Lips!
This is so important, as a Dermatologist, I see a lot of skin cancer on the lower lip. When you sit by the pool or you’re out at the beach with a shiny gloss on you are actually magnifying the UV rays from the sun. Pout Plump SPF 30 is great to plump, protect, and perfect the lips if you love to wear gloss in the summer. Aquaphor also has a simple SPF Lip Balm that protects and repairs.
Banish Body Odor
It might be embarrassing for some, but it's a common concern! Higher temperatures and humidity cause bacteria to break down sweat, leading to stronger body odor. Glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide are powerful allies in combating this issue. Clarify Pads are excellent for daily use on underarms or other odor-prone areas. For a stronger solution, try The One, which works great on the feet to not only eliminate odor but also smooth dry cracked heels, softening the skin.
