How to Protect and Nourish Your Skin in the Summer Heat

The summer season is not over. As the temperature continues to rise and the sun shines brighter, we know that the summer season mean only one thing...It's gonna get even hotter! With that, it's important to adjust your skincare routine to keep your skin healthy and extra protected.  Here's some tips for you to add in your routine! 

Sun Protection:

The sun's UV rays can cause damage to the skin, leading to premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer. To protect your skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Additionally, seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and wear protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses, for added defense against UV rays.

Hydration:

The summer heat can leave your skin feeling parched and dehydrated, making it essential to hydrate both internally and externally. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and your skin fresh.

Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products into your routine, such as lightweight moisturizers and hyaluronic acid serums, to replenish moisture lost due to sun exposure and sweating. Consider using a facial mist or setting spray containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera or cucumber to refresh and hydrate your skin throughout the day.

Gentle Cleansing:

Proper cleansing is important for removing sweat, oil, and sunscreen buildup from your skin, especially during the summer months. However, harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness and irritation.

Choose gentle cleansers with hydrating ingredients to cleanse your skin so it doesn't get easily irritated which can cause skin issues like acne. Consider double cleansing in the evening to ensure all traces of sunscreen and impurities are thoroughly removed, followed by a hydrating toner to rebalance the skin's pH levels.

Exfoliation:

Regular exfoliation is key to maintaining smooth, radiant skin year-round, but it's especially important during the summer when sweat and sunscreen buildup can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Incorporate a gentle exfoliating scrub or chemical exfoliant into your skincare routine 2-3 times per week to slough away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover. Be mindful not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate the skin and compromise its protective barrier. If you'll be spending time outdoors, consider using exfoliating products in the evening to avoid increased sensitivity to the sun.

Antioxidant Protection:

In addition to sunscreen, incorporating antioxidant-rich skincare products into your routine can provide added protection against environmental damage caused by free radicals. Look for serums or moisturizers containing vitamins C and E, green tea extract, or niacinamide, which help neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. These powerful antioxidants not only protect your skin from UV damage but also help brighten the complexion, reduce inflammation, and promote overall skin health.

With the right skincare routine and protective measures, you can keep your skin healthy and radiant all summer long. By prioritizing sun protection, hydration, gentle cleansing, exfoliation, and antioxidant protection, you'll nourish your skin from the inside out and maintain a glowing complexion despite the heat. So, embrace the summer sun responsibly, and remember to show your skin the love and care it deserves for a beautiful, healthy glow all season long.