The perfect skincare routine is never set in stone. When you account for changing temperatures and the weather-induced skin changes that follow, it's easy to see just how much the time of year can affect your skin.
Winter vs. summer skincare requires some slight changes. In winter, your skin is typically dry and irritated; meanwhile, summer often causes your skin to be oilier. Beyond that, extra sun exposure in the summertime requires an extra focus on sunscreen.
A good basic skincare routine should be applicable to any and all seasons, but the changing weather requires some specific changes in the summer. Here are five key ingredients in a simple, effective summer skincare routine.
1. Cleanse daily.
With sweat and greasier skin in the humid months, it’s more important than ever to wash your face to prevent grime buildup and irritation.
To best care for your summer skin, use a gentle cleanser one to two times a day to get rid of that buildup. It’s also important to cut back on the hot water, especially if your skin is sensitive and you're wondering how to care for sensitive skin in the summer. Steam and long showers can make your skin dry and irritated. It’s all about balance. Use cold- to room-temperature water when washing your face, rather than scalding hot water that will dry it out even more. Cleansing, especially during the summer, is a must-do.
2. Apply SPF — always.
Another important step in a summer skincare routine is sunscreen. Warmer weather means you most likely spend more time outside. Thus, your sun exposure goes up. SPF is a must, whether you are going for a casual stroll outside or plan to lay on a beach for hours. Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30, as it blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. Also, don’t forget to reapply when necessary.
Tip: Check the label on your makeup to see if the product includes SPF. Many tinted moisturizers, foundations, and powders include SPF, which makes for fewer steps in your routine and easy application. But don’t forget about your ears, top of your forehead, hands, and other easy-to-forget spots, too. Sunscreen should be your base before you add any makeup.
3. Add Vitamin C.
This may be in your routine already, but a few drops of a Vitamin C serum can be the perfect addition to your summer skincare routine. Benefits include anti-aging, prevention of hyperpigmentation, and a boost of collagen production, which will make your skin more elastic and glowy. A good vitamin C spray can also do the trick. If you do add this step, be sure to apply Vitamin C after cleansing but before sunscreen and moisturizer.
4. Use lighter products.
In winter, thicker moisturizers can help lock in the hydration your skin always needs. But those heavier formulas can be greasy on your skin during the sweaty summer months. That said, you may be questioning whether you really need to moisturize when your skin is feeling oily in the first place. But the answer is yes. Swap out your thick moisturizer for a serum or lighter cream. The runnier the better. Water-based moisturizers are light on the skin and can be just as hydrating. This way your skin isn’t weighed down by heavy products. Bonus points if your moisturizer has SPF, too.
In the summer, lighter products also mean using lightweight formulas when it comes to your makeup. Having your makeup sweat off on a hot summer day is never ideal. Instead of a heavy foundation, opt for tinted moisturizer. A good translucent powder can help hide the sweat, too.
5. Exfoliate regularly.
Exfoliating is a great bonus step to add to your summer night skincare routine. It’s not news that dirt builds up more easily on your skin during the summer. Your pores are much more prone to clogs and blemishes during the summer season. Adding a light exfoliating product to your summer skincare routine helps diminish that buildup and purify your skin.
If you do exfoliate regularly during summer, remember not to do it when recovering from a sunburn. Let your skin heal on its own rather than scrubbing it with an extra irritant.
With these simple steps, your skin will be its best this summer. If you're passionate about skincare and would like to learn more about pursuing a career as a skincare professional, get in touch today.