Essential Ways to Take Care of your skin this summer

Your skincare routine should change with the seasons. Winter activities likely involve spending more time indoors than your summer plans. Give your skin what it needs by reading a few essential ways to take care of your skin this summer. You’ll avoid potential discomfort by nourishing and protecting your body with intention.

1. Drink More Water

The human body needs water to regulate important functions like blood flow and cellular processes. It also uses water to keep your skin soft and elastic. Adult women should drink around 11.5 cups of water daily, while men should drink 15.5 cups. If you can’t drink that much in one day, supplement some of that water with water-based foods like cucumbers and melons.

2. Upgrade Your Beach Umbrella

If you’re one of the many people visiting the beach this summer or spending time by a lake, you’ll likely lounge underneath an umbrella. Ensure that the fabric has a high enough quality to protect your skin. Umbrellas should have an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of at least 30, but many umbrellas offer even higher UPF protection. Sunlight won’t seep through the fabric and burn your skin if you have an upgraded version with better material.

3. Set Timers for Sunscreen Applications

When researchers tested sunscreen’s effectiveness on outdoor workers with an eight-hour work schedule, they found that reapplying every two hours provided adequate protection. The study also concluded that reapplying more frequently than every two hours is optimal when swimming. 

Set timers this summer whenever you’ll spend a few hours outside so you’ll never forget to reapply whichever brand and SPF level you prefer. It will reduce the odds of getting burnt, preventing skin damage that could lead to cancer.

4. Relieve Stress

Stress is a leading contributor to acne breakouts and skin problems. If you feel like you’ve taken good care of your skin but still have the occasional zit, stress may be the culprit. 

While relieving stress is easier said then done, here are some strategies you can try:

• Take breaks during work. Breaks are proven to relieve stress and boost productivity. 
• Plan a mental health day. Take a day to unplug, relax and do things that calm your mind.
• Spend time in nature. Whether you sit outside for 15 minutes or go for a hike, fresh air can do wonders for your mental wellbeing.
• Practice self-care every day. Make sure you are taking care of yourself and unwinding after a long day.
• Exercise however you like. Jogging, yoga, surfing, cycling – whatever brings you joy.

5. Use a Vitamin C Serum  

Although skincare steps like dry brushing can increase skin circulation to improve elasticity, vitamin C serum should be your secret weapon this summer. It creates a more substantial skin barrier against bacteria and sweat by fighting oxidative stress triggered by free radicals.

Free radicals can come from sources like cigarette smoke, industrial airborne chemicals and ultraviolet (UV). When they reach your cells, they undergo oxidative stress, leading to wrinkles and texture changes. Apply a vitamin C serum each night before going to sleep to give it a few hours to soothe your cells and help them become a better barrier against sunlight.

6. Moisturize With Face Masks

Skin damage from sunburns and dry summer air can lead to flaking. Pamper yourself with weekly face masks designed to moisturize. They’ll send hydration straight to your cells to restore their elasticity, robust barrier and even tone. It’s especially important to moisturize after getting a sunburn, as it will speed up the healing process and soothe irritated skin cells.

7. Wear Breathable Clothing

Your face isn’t the only area that needs specialized skincare in the summer. You should also consider your arms, legs and torso. Wearing sweat-wicking fabric will make your whole body feel better. It would prevent sweat from clinging to your skin while sitting in a hot car, doing yard work or walking outside.

Consider upgrading your wardrobe with fabrics like cotton, jersey and athleticwear. Sweat won’t linger against your skin and cause breakouts or rashes during the hot weather months.

8. Cleanse Your Skin Nightly

Washing your face is essential to taking care of your skin this summer. Find a gentle cleanser that won’t irritate skin cells affected by sunburns or extended sun exposure. It will remove sweat and bacteria to prevent breakouts. Many cleansers also remove makeup, so you don’t have to worry about dealing with a longer skincare routine.

9. Invest in Hats

Sometimes you might not have time to apply sunscreen. You might also want to take a break from the lingering oily sheen left behind by standard protectant products. Either way, those are the perfect moments to wear a wide-brimmed hat. You’ll get robust sun protection on the go and gain a new wardrobe accessory. Find one like a breezer or foldable straw hat to see which options match your sense of style. 

10. Apply Lip Protection

Your lips can get sunburned too. It’s something many people forget, but it’s easy to prevent. Wear a lip balm with an SPF rating to moisturize and protect your lips. You won’t deal with occasional redness or flaking. Lip balms also won’t have the same foul taste of sunscreen lotions meant for other parts of the body.

11. Eat More Antioxidants

The free radicals from UV radiation are also powerless against antioxidants. The natural compounds neutralize free radicals before or while they cause damage to your skin. You can get more of these in skincare products, but they’re also present in foods like:

• Sweet potatoes
• Carrots
• Broccoli
• Avocados
• Cashews

Try planning meals and snacks with foods high in antioxidants. They may fit your budget more easily, resulting in tasty recipes that your entire family loves.

Take Care of Your Skin This Summer

Make this summer your best one yet. Take care of your skin with these essential tips to avoid discomfort and increased chances of skin cancer. Simple additions to your daily routine can make all the difference and help you make incredible memories this year.