The Best Skin Care Routine for Summer
Ah, sweet summertime! You made it past the snow shoveling and rain showers, and now you’re ready to revel in the warmth and sunshine of summer. Before you do that though, you should consider how the extra hours in the sun can impact your skin. Aside from the occasional summer sunburn, UV rays can also accelerate some common signs of skin aging like fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. The increased humidity and temperature can contribute to other summer skin issues too, including extra oil and shine. All of these reasons are precisely why you’ll want to adjust your skin care routine during the summer months. Not quite sure what that should entail? Here, we’re sharing the best summer skin care routine. Keep reading to learn how to foster your most beautiful summer skin all season long by following the perfect regimen for the hot, sunny months ahead.
THE BEST SUMMER SKIN CARE ROUTINE
Without further ado, we’re walking you through creating a skin care routine for the hot summer months. Follow these tips for gorgeous, healthy skin even on summer’s hottest days.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 1: Cleanse twice a day
When the air is hot and humid, your skin may be extra oily. And let’s be honest, you also may find that you sweat more during the summer compared to other seasons. If this is the case, you certainly won’t want to let all the excess oil and sweat linger on your skin day after day. So, the best skin care regimen to help keep summer skin matte, yet moisturized, should include cleansing twice daily with a foaming, mild facial cleanser.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 2: Exfoliate with glycolic acid at night
Your summer skin can produce excess oil, but it can also look dry and dull if you don’t exfoliate regularly. And don’t think you’re limited to exfoliating with a face scrub; a chemical exfoliating peel pad formulated with glycolic acid can help slough away dead skin cells that can cause the look of dull, lackluster skin.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 3: Apply a water-based moisturizer
During the sticky summer months, your complexion won’t need the heavy-duty moisturizer you use during the winter. Instead, use a lightweight, water-based moisturizer twice per day.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 4: Layer on SPF
As you likely already know, SPF should be a staple in your summer skin care routine—no matter what skin type or skin care concerns you may have. Follow the Food and Drug Administration’s guidelines and apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF value of at least 15 every day. It’s also a must to reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Of course, it’s important to protect your skin via other measures, too. Avoid the sun during its peak hours, seek out shade, and wear a broad-brimmed hat—just to name a few.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 5: Try a self-tanner
Who doesn’t want glowing, sun-kissed skin during the summertime? We certainly do! However, soaking up too much sun just isn’t healthy for your skin. Rather than lay out, try applying a self-tanner for a faux glow. And don’t worry about ending up with an orange, streaky tan. With the right self-tanner, it’s easy (and quick) to achieve a natural-looking tan in no time. For a long-lasting tan courtesy of a lightweight formula.
SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP 6: Moisturize at night
In addition to your regular moisturizer, try using nourishing night cream before hitting the hay. Since you won’t want to slather on a heavy-duty cream during the daytime, taking this extra step can allow you to replenish moisture overnight.