10 Skincare Tips to Get That Summer Glow

It is officially SUMMER! Finally! To kick off the lazy, hazy days of summer, I thought it would be a good idea to talk about our skin. Enemy #1 of our skin is the sun, but that doesn't mean we have to spend the glorious days of summer inside. Instead, learning how to properly care for and protect our skin is what is most important.

To maintain great summer skin, here are 10 summer skincare tips you can follow:

1. Protect yourself from the sun. Sun protection is crucial during the summer months, as well as year-round. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. “Broad-spectrum" means that the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are associated with premature aging caused by the sun. UVB rays are the nasty rays that cause vacation-ruining sunburns and skin cancers. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you're sweating or swimming. Additionally, wear protective clothing like hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved garments when possible.

2. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within. This helps skin maintain its elasticity and suppleness, while also preventing dryness and flakiness. Aim for at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day and increase your intake if you're spending time outdoors or engaging in physical activities. Personally, I set my water intake goal by taking the number of my weight in pounds, dividing by 2 and that is the number of ounces I try to drink each day. (Example: if you weigh 150 lbs divide by 2 = 75. 75 ounces of water would be the goal.)

3. Cleanse gently. Use a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type to wash your face twice a day. Avoid harsh cleansers that can strip away natural oils and disrupt the skin's moisture barrier. Look for products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. After cleansing, pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it.

4. Exfoliate regularly. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, promoting a smoother and brighter complexion. However, be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive exfoliation can lead to irritation. Opt for a gentle exfoliator and use it 1-2 times a week. Chemical exfoliants with ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) are also effective options. My all-time favorite exfoliators are Mary Kay TimeWise Microdermabrasion and Mary Kay TimeWise Repair Revealing Radiance Facial Peel.

5. Moisturize daily. Even in the summer, it's essential to moisturize your skin to maintain its hydration. Choose a lightweight, moisturizer suitable for your skin type. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera, which provide hydration without feeling heavy on the skin.

6. Eat a balanced diet. A healthy diet can have an immensely positive impact on your skin's appearance. Include foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, which help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Also, incorporate foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon or chia seeds, which help maintain skin health. Great skin starts from within and cleaning up your diet is one of the best ways to get that glow we are all seeking after.

7. Practice proper after-sun care. If you've been exposed to the sun for an extended period, take care of your skin afterward. Apply a soothing and hydrating after-sun product (Honestly, one of the best I have found is HERE.), or use natural remedies like aloe vera gel to calm and moisturize your skin. Avoid using harsh or heavily fragranced products that can further irritate sun-exposed skin.

8. Limit hot showers. Hot showers or baths can strip away the skin's natural oils and leave it feeling dry and tight. Opt for lukewarm water instead, and limit your shower time to avoid excessive drying of the skin. You might even consider the time-tested beauty trick of ending your shower with a blast of cold water to wake you up and get your blood flowing to bring out your inner glow. After bathing, pat your skin dry gently, don’t rub, and apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp.

9. Get moving! Exercising and raising the heart rate increases blood flow to the skin. This, in turn, brings more oxygen to the skin and helps to carry away toxins through sweat. Studies also show that moving more helps increase collagen production and improves skin elasticity. Summer is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy a walk, a swim, a bicycle ride, or games in the yard with friends and family. (Just don’t forget that sunscreen!)

10. Get sufficient beauty sleep. Your skin rejuvenates and repairs itself during sleep, so make sure to get enough restful sleep each night. Lack of sleep can contribute to dullness, puffiness, and dark circles. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night to allow your skin to regenerate and look its best.

Remember, everyone's skin is unique, so it's important to pay attention to your skin's specific needs and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. Having a quality skincare routine is important to keep skin healthy and at its best. If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice. If you currently do not have a daily skincare routine tailored to your specific needs and goals, I am always happy to help with that. Contact me by email today and let’s get started on the road to glowing skin.

Happy Summer!

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