Here in Southern California, we live in warm weather a majority of the year. Even so, summer usually means hotter weather – and it also finds most of us spending more time than usual outside and getting more sun.
This year, we have an extra skin care consideration: facial masks. To combat skin irritations and acne that can result from wearing a mask daily, remember to wash your face first, apply a good moisturizer, skip the makeup and wear only clean masks (washed in fragrance free detergent). Surgical masks are not recommended for reuse because they cannot be cleaned properly.
Although a solid routine should be applicable to all seasons and all climates, there are a couple of changes you should keep in mind when transitioning from colder months to warmer months. Here’s how to update your skin care routine for summer months.
Lighten up your skin-care routine
Just like what you’re wearing, your skin care needs to be a bit lighter. The heat and humidity of summer means you can swap out a heavier cleanser (like a cleansing cream or oil) in favor of a gentle, foaming option.
Use a dual-purpose moisturizer
Switch to a combination moisturizer and sunscreen during the summer most people’s skin. Some thicker moisturizers can lead to clogged pores, inflammation, and acne. In particular, if you have acne-prone or oily skin, losing one skin-care step with a combination moisturizer with SPF can help keep skin clear.
Don’t stop moisturizing altogether
Simply because your skin feels moist from humidity or sweat, that is not a moisturizer. Even when your skin feels oily, you should always follow cleansing with a moisturizer. Moisturizer helps to restore the stratum corneum – the outermost layer of the skin –which protects from harmful pollutants and chemicals and helps prevent further irritation and dryness. A combination moisturizer/SPF can be a great option, with a lightweight texture to help the outer layer of your skin stay nourished, yet not feel too heavy.
Use a solid vitamin C serum
Vitamin C is most important in warmer months but is great year-round. Vitamin C improves the appearance of fine lines, helps prevent hyperpigmentation, and can help stimulate collagen production. Apply a few drops between cleansing and moisturizing your skin.
Add an exfoliation step to your routine
You don’t want to over exfoliate, but summer is the time to slough more often! Those with oily skin can exfoliate even more. We don't mean using of all your favorite acids every day, but try gradually increasing the amount of times you exfoliate each week. Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) pads can open up blocked pores and remove oils that result in acne. They also feel great and and sooth summer skin.
Reduce extra water time
With all of the additional activity and heat, many of us shower more than once a day during the summer. Try to keep your showers short – five minutes maximum. Long showers and using water that is too hot can dry your skin, leading to inflammation and even seasonal eczema. And consider installing a shower filter, which removes skin-damaging chorine and chloramines from your shower water.
Non-comedogenic make-up is a must
Take a close look at your makeup product labels and keep only those that are non-comedogenic – meaning products formulated without pore-clogging ingredients. This is an important quality, especially during the summer. Consider options like a powder sunscreen, an oil-free primer, or a lightweight foundation.
Seek shade
Wear sunglasses, wide-brim hats and sun-protective clothing when you’re in the sun. Try to expose as little of your body as possible to direct sunlight. Do yourself a favor and choose a seat under an umbrella, wear an extra-large hat, and avoid the midday sun.
Hydrate, of course
Hydration is always an important component of your skin care, but even more so in the summer. Eight glasses each day will yield great results when it comes to your skin. And, in the unlikely event that you’re faced with a sunburn, hydration can also help skin recover.
SPF!
The most important tip you already know: wear sunscreen! Experts recommend a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF30 or higher which you should apply on all exposed skin. Remember your hands, feet, ears, and lips. Remember that it needs to be reapplied every couple of hours, so make sure you have plenty!
Remember to take good care of your body and soul – year round! Bliss on Broadway is offering many services ‘al fresco’ on our back patio – by appointment only. Call us at 562-439-4333. You can also purchase a gift certificate now for services in the future. http://www.blissonbroadway.com/