People often talk about how winter climates affect our skin, but what about the hot seasons? They can definitely change the way we take care of our skin. Summer is just around the corner and with it brings warmer temperatures and new elements that can impact your skin. Things like sun, chlorine, and sweat are just some of the factors that make you change up your skincare routine.
It’s important to combat those elements to protect your skin from any possible damage, whether that damage comes now or in the future. Dry skin, heat rashes, or skin cancer are all possible ways that summer climate can affect your skin, so how do we stop those from happening? Read on for a list of tips to care for your skin during this season change!
1. Know Your Skin
Everyone has different skin types. It’s important to understand what yours is, as your skincare routine and products may look different from someone else’s. Some of the different types of skin are:
- Dry: Dry skin can be a result of external factors like sun exposure or low air humidity. For some people, dry skin can be a recurring problem that has no correlation to external things.
- Oily: Usually caused by genetic or hormonal causes, oily skin has a humid and bright appearance. It is an overproduction of our natural oils and mostly affects the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin).
- Combination: This is both oily and dry skin, each one can affect a different part of the face.
Other types of skin include normal, sensitive, or scaly skin. Having an understanding of your own skin type allows you to to find a skincare routine that adequately protects your skin.
2. Wash Your Face
The most simple tip is also one of the most important. Washing your face cleans dirt and grime from your pores and can keep your skin looking fresh. As the season changes, it may also be helpful to change up your cleanser. For the summer, you’ll want to trade your heavier cleanser formulas for lightweight formulas and vice versa when the winter arrives.
Depending on your skin type, the frequency you wash your face will also change. Some need to wash morning and night, while others are okay to just wash once a day. Be careful to not overwash, though, as it removes too much of your healthy oils and can lead to irritated skin or breakouts.
3. Moisturize Often
While the air in the summer isn’t as dry as it is in the winter, it’s still important to keep your skin moisturized. Your skin can still dry out in the summer, especially if you spend a lot of time swimming or doing other water activities!
Just like with your cleanser, switching from a thick, heavy moisturizer to a lightweight, breathable one won’t weigh your face down in the hot sun. Try to find a moisturizer with the consistency of ketchup, or thinner, and preferably with SPF!
4. Sunscreen, Sunscreen, and More Sunscreen!
While it’s great to have SPF in your moisturizer and makeup, that’s not enough to replace your daily sunscreen. You should look for sunscreen that has at least 30 SPF and broad spectrum protection, and don’t forget your lips! If you’re planning on being in the sun all day, reapply every 2 hours for maximum protection.
People who burn more than they tan might want to skip the sun altogether. And while tanning isn’t painful for some, it’s still considered sun damage! So, wear sunscreen frequently and opt for a self-tanner to get that sun-kissed glow.
5. Embrace Your Face–Go Lighter on the Makeup
Makeup is personal to everyone. Some like a full-face of glam, while others prefer a light skin tint and mascara. Do whatever makes you comfortable, but be aware that summer can affect your makeup. If you spend a lot of time outside in the heat, a lot of makeup can feel heavy on the face or come off with your sweat.
Embrace the heat and go natural. This lets your skin breathe and gives it a break from winter wear. Choose skin tints over foundation, skip a step or two in your usual routine, and choose products with SPF included.
6. Exfoliate Occasionally
Sweat, sunscreen, and makeup can be rough on your pores in the summer. This is why exfoliating is so important. Exfoliation can unclog your pores and reduce breakouts, when not overdone. We recommend exfoliating once or twice a week.
Choose gentle exfoliants over skin scrubs, and skip exfoliation if you’re sunburned. Let your skin heal on its own.
7. Visit a Dermatologist
If you have frequent issues with your skin, it’s important to seek out a dermatologist. Some skin problems can only be treated with prescription medications. They can also give you a better understanding of your skin type and how to effectively take care of it.
Skinworks Can Help
Skinworks Student Spa* is open to the public and values quality treatment. We provide many services like facials, waxing, and exfoliation to prepare you for the summer and leave your skin looking healthy. Call us at (801) 530-0001 or book online to make an appointment!
If you’re interested in learning and performing these services, we have many esthetic programs for you to choose from. Contact us for more information* or take a virtual tour. We would love to meet you!
*Student services performed under the supervision of licensed professionals.
*Financial Aid available to those who qualify.