Essential Skin Prep for the Summer

Summer is upon us (yay!) but that also means making some changes to our skin routine. As the sun’s rays become more intense and the temperatures rise, it is time to shift our skincare routines to cater to the summer season. Summertime brings outdoor adventures, beach vacations, lake days, bonfires, and overall, longer days spent in the sun. However, it’s crucial to prepare and protect our skin from potential damage caused by increased UV exposure, heat, humidity, and free radicals. I am going to give you the low-down on essential steps to help you nurture and prepare your skin for the summer months ahead, ensuring a healthy, radiant complexion and preventative aging.

Shield Your Skin with SPF

You already knew this was coming as number one, didn’t you? Sun protection is crucial all year round, but it becomes even more vital during the summer months when UV rays are more robust. Reach for that broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF between 30-50 and apply it generously to all exposed areas of your skin. A quarter size is needed to cover your face/neck while a shot glass full is needed to cover your body. Remember it does not do you any good if you only apply in the morning, reapplication is necessary every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or spending time in the water. Don’t forget to protect often overlooked areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and your hands.

Combat Hyperpigmentation

That warm, delicious, summer sun can exacerbate existing hyperpigmentation and lead to the development of new dark spots. Incorporate brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic or azelaic acid into your skincare routine to help fade existing spots and even out your skin tone. Always remember to apply sunscreen after using any brightening products, as they can increase sensitivity to the sun.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

75% of the population suffers from chronic dehydration. Most of us are not consuming the amount of water we should be, plus as we age we encounter TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss) which means we lose more moisture than we produce. During the summer, increased sun exposure, sweating, and maybe even day drinking, we certainly are not helping our skin. Dehydration can affect your skin’s health and appearance, giving it a crepey and dull look. Make hydration a priority this summer by drinking half your body weight in water throughout the day to moisturize your skin and body. Additionally, consider incorporating a hydrating serum with Hyaluronic Acid, or a lightweight moisturizer with Niacinamide into your skincare routine to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. This leads to the next essential tip…

Lighten Up Your Routine

Heavy creams and rich moisturizers are great in the winter but may not be suitable for the hot and humid summer weather. If you are oily/acne-prone, consider switching to lightweight, oil-free products that are less likely to clog pores or cause breakouts. Look for gel-based moisturizers, serums, and non-comedogenic sunscreens to maintain a breathable and comfortable feel on your skin. If you tend to be more dry, gel-based or light creams will be your friend to help lubricate your skin from the lack of oil you are producing.

Exfoliate For Renewed Radiance

The best way to reduce that uneven texture, blackheads, milia, and dull-looking skin is by exfoliating. Exfoliation removes the build-up of dead skin cells, allowing fresh and vibrant skin to emerge. Use a gentle manual or chemical exfoliant with AHAs such as lactic, mandelic, or malic acid to slough off dullness, unclog pores, and promote a smoother texture. Be mindful not to over-exfoliate, as this can strip your skin of essential oils and disrupt your barrier. Aim to exfoliate 1-2 times per week, adjusting the frequency based on your skin’s sensitivity. If your skin can really take it and is resilient, add a Retinol or Retinal Palmitate to your regime.

Nurture Your Lips And Eyes

While focusing on your skin, it’s essential not to neglect your lips and delicate eye area. Apply a lip balm with SPF regularly to protect your lips from sunburn and keep them hydrated. Additionally, use a lightweight eye cream or gel to moisturize and soothe the under-eye area, which can be prone to puffiness and dryness due to increased sun exposure and late summer nights. This is also when those way-too-big-for-your-face sunglasses actually serve a purpose and block the UV from damaging that area or excessive squinting.

Now you know what to do and are ready to conquer the summer while still enjoying yourself! Preparing your skin for the summer months doesn’t need to be expensive or daunting, it just needs to be customized to your skin type and needs with minor adjustments. Embrace the summer with confidence, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to care for your skin. If you need help deciding what to incorporate into your routine, come find me online at POMP Beauty and I can be your personal esty to walk you through your skincare shelf.

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