As the season’s come and go, many of us change out our wardrobe but did you know you should also be changing up your skincare routine? Here are four dermatologist-approved summer skincare tips to help protect and nourish your skin during the summer months!
1. Don’t Forget the SPF
We’re sure this one comes as no surprise but most dermatologists agree that UV protection is the most important step in any skincare routine regardless of the time of year but it becomes increasingly important during those sunny summer months. Most of us are inevitably spending more time outside as the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, so wearing a daily SPF is essential to protect your skin.
According to Dr. Melanie Palm, you should make sure your sunscreen is SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours. There are so many great SPF products on the market these days including moisturizers, serums, and powders, so find the one that works best for you and stick with it all summer!
2. Incorporate a Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C serums can be used year-round but are especially important during the summer months. According to dermatologist Dr. Tiffany Libby, "UV rays cause up to 90% of photo-aging that happens to our skin, so using antioxidants [like Vitamin C] adds another layer of protection and helps prevent and treat unwanted pigmentation that shows up in the summer months."
Vitamin C can also help improve the appearance of fine lines and help with collagen production, so layering a few drops on your skin after cleansing but before moisturizing, is always a good idea!
3. Ditch Heavy Products
An easy way to prevent sweat and oil from building up in your pores and causing breakouts during the summer months is by using non-comedogenic makeup and skincare products. According to Dr. Palm, “[Look] for non-comedogenic products, meaning products that do not cause or contribute to breakouts. Avoid deeply moisturizing or oily formulations during the summer months."
Since summer usually comes along with increased humidity and temperatures, less moisture is lost from our skin into the air. For that reason, we generally don’t need as many moisturizing agents as we would during the winter months. As an added bonus, lighter formulas will feel better on the skin, so Dr. Libby suggests “switching to gel-cream moisturizing or simply opting for a hyaluronic acid serum to apply under your SPF”.
4. Exfoliate Regularly
According to Dr. Hadley King, "Many people avoid exfoliation during the winter months because it can dry out the skin, but as the weather warms up and the humidity increases, we are better able to tolerate acids and stronger formulations of other active ingredients".
Exfoliation, especially during the summer months, can help open up blocked pores and remove oils that result in acne. Make sure to exfoliate at night since many exfoliators can make your skin photosensitive and more prone to burning.
Takeaway
As the weather outside heats up make sure to ditch heavy products, exfoliate a few times a week, pick up a Vitamin C serum, and never forget the SPF! Your skin will be glowing and healthy and summer long!
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