After the cold winter, we always look forward to summer and vacations to pamper our skin with warm sunshine. However, we should not forget that it is in summer that our skin is exposed to serious tests – dry and hot air, dust, and, of course, ultraviolet radiation. All these negative factors increase the sebum activity, leading to skin pollution, various inflammations, scaling, dehydration, contributing to the formation of wrinkles and increased pigmentation.
Therefore, in summertime, there is a need to adjust home facial care so as to protect the skin from the negative effects of the environment. Facial skin care at this time of year should also remain comprehensive and consist of important steps – cleansing, toning, moisturizing, nourishing, and protection. But some cosmetic products should be excluded, replaced, or added. Check our recommendations for summer skincare to keep your face in the best condition!
Sunscreen is a Must
Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, particularly during summertime. Sun protection helps to prevent sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. However, not all sunscreens are created equal, and it’s important to choose the right one for your skin type and needs.
When selecting a sunscreen, it’s important to consider the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating. The SPF rating indicates how long the sunscreen can protect the skin from UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn. The higher the SPF rating, the longer the protection lasts.
While an SPF of 15-20 is suitable for daily use in the city, it may not be sufficient for those with more sensitive or fair skin. In this case, a higher SPF of 30 or more is recommended, especially if you’re prone to pigmentation or have a history of skin cancer in your family.
When going on vacation to hot countries or mountainous regions, it’s important to stock up on sunscreen with an SPF rating of 50-60. These areas often have higher levels of UV radiation, which can cause more damage to the skin. Additionally, it’s important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
In addition to using sunscreen, it’s important to wear protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the summer sunshine while still protecting your skin from damage.
Сleansing
Cleansing is a crucial step in any skincare routine, and during summertime, it becomes even more important. As mentioned, dust and sweat can clog pores, leading to inflammation and breakouts. However, it’s important to choose the right type of cleanser for your skin type and needs.
For those with oily or combination skin, a gel or foaming cleanser is a good option as it can effectively remove excess oil and dirt without stripping the skin of its natural oils. For those with dry or sensitive skin, a cream or oil-based cleanser may be more suitable as it can help to hydrate and nourish the skin.
In addition to using a light, refreshing cleanser, it’s also important to exfoliate regularly during summertime. Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and contribute to dull-looking skin. However, it’s important not to over-exfoliate, as this can cause irritation and dryness. Once or twice a week is typically sufficient for most skin types.
Lastly, it’s important to avoid using hot water when cleansing the skin, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and contribute to dehydration. Instead, opt for lukewarm or cool water, which can help to soothe and refresh the skin. By following these cleansing tips, you can help to keep your skin clean, clear, and healthy during summertime.
Toning
Toning is an important step in any skincare routine as it helps to balance the pH of the skin, remove any remaining traces of dirt or oil, and prepare the skin for the next steps in your skincare routine. During summertime, toning becomes even more important as it can help to soothe and refresh the skin after exposure to hot and humid weather.
When choosing a toner for summertime, it’s important to select a light and refreshing formula that won’t feel heavy or greasy on the skin. Look for toners that contain ingredients like chamomile, calendula, aloe vera, and witch hazel, which can help to soothe and hydrate the skin. Urea is also a great ingredient to look for, as it can help to exfoliate and moisturize the skin at the same time.
In addition to these ingredients, toners that contain antioxidants can help to protect the skin from free radical damage caused by UV radiation and other environmental stressors. Some popular antioxidant ingredients to look for in toners include vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract.
Finally, it’s important to look for toners that contain disinfectant and antibacterial ingredients to help prevent breakouts and other skin irritations. Ingredients like tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and witch hazel can help to keep the skin clean and clear.
By incorporating a toner into your summer skincare routine, you can help to keep your skin balanced, hydrated, and protected from environmental stressors.
Moisturize Your Skin
In summer, the skin needs increased hydration and nourishment. The ideal cream for summer care should have a light texture (gel, fluid, emulsion, serum), intensely moisturize, and protect from antioxidants and active UV radiation.
Amino acids, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, collagen, elastin, vitamins C and E are good. Retinol, enzymes, and fruit acids are undesirable, as they make the skin more sensitive to UV radiation.
A daytime summer face cream should always contain SPF as active sunlight exposure causes premature skin aging. Look for a lightweight moisturizer that is easily absorbed into the skin and does not leave a greasy residue. Gel-based or water-based moisturizers are a great option, as they provide hydration without weighing down the skin. Also, consider using a moisturizer that contains antioxidants like green tea or vitamin C to help protect your skin from free radicals and environmental damage.
By using a moisturizer that is tailored to the needs of your skin during the summertime, you can help to keep it healthy, nourished, and protected from the harsh effects of the sun and other environmental factors.
In summer, the skin needs not only moisturizing but also nourishing. Nourishing and revitalizing the skin is best done at night, about an hour and a half or two hours before going to bed. At this time, the skin is most susceptible to active substances and can better absorb nutrients.
Consider using a night cream that contains natural oils like jojoba, argan, or avocado oil to nourish and hydrate the skin while you sleep. Retinol and glycolic acid can also be helpful for stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture.
Don’t forget about eye skin care. The skin around the eyes is delicate and can easily become dehydrated in the summer heat. Consider using a lightweight gel with a moisturizing, cooling, and lifting effect instead of an eye cream. Look for ingredients like caffeine, green tea, or vitamin C to help reduce puffiness and dark circles.
By incorporating nourishing and revitalizing products into your skincare routine, you can help to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant all summer long.
Summer Makeup Recommendations
In summer, it is advisable to minimize the use of heavy or oil-based makeup products. The heat and humidity can cause makeup to melt and clog pores, leading to breakouts and other skin irritations. Instead, it’s better to use lightweight and breathable products that can help your skin to breathe and stay healthy.
Consider replacing your regular foundation with a light, moisturizing BB or CC cream that contains SPF. These types of products provide sheer coverage while also protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. They also typically contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to keep your skin looking fresh and dewy all day long.
If you prefer to use powder, look for a mineral-based option that contains SPF. These powders can help to absorb excess oil and sweat while also protecting your skin from UV radiation.
In addition to foundation or powder, you can add a pop of color to your summer makeup look with a tinted lip balm or cheek tint. These products provide a sheer wash of color without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
Overall, when it comes to summer makeup, less is more. By choosing lightweight, breathable products with added sun protection, you can help to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant all summer long.
Additional Tips
- In addition to the basic daily steps of care, like cleansing, toning, and moisturizing, the skin also needs additional care in the summer months. This can be achieved through the use of moisturizing masks, gentle gommage and scrubs, and enzyme peels. These treatments help to slough off dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving the skin looking and feeling refreshed and revitalized.
- Antioxidant and moisturizing concentrated serums are also a summer must-have. These products can help to combat the damaging effects of free radicals and UV radiation, while also providing deep hydration to the skin.
- It’s important to remember that our lips are also exposed to the sun and can become dry and chapped. To keep your lips looking and feeling their best, stock up on a good lip balm with SPF. Look for a product that contains moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil, as well as SPF to protect your lips from sun damage.
By incorporating these additional skincare steps into your summer routine, you can help to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy and radiant all season long.
In Conclusion
Taking care of your skin during summertime requires a comprehensive approach, which includes adjusting your skincare routine, protecting yourself from the sun, and paying attention to your diet and hydration. By following the basic daily steps of cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and protection, as well as incorporating additional care with masks, gommage, scrubs, and enzyme peels, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing all summer long. And don’t forget to protect your lips with a good balm with SPF and wear sunglasses and headgear to prevent squinting and wrinkles.
If you follow these tips, you will keep your skin beautiful and look irresistible even in 40-degree heat!