These Essential Summer Skincare Tips I Love

Summer can be a tough time for your skin, with all that sun, heat, and sweat. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a routine that considers all these. So, let’s dive in!

1. Use Gentle Cleanser

Why? 

When you sweat, your pores can become clogged with sweat, oil, and dirt, leading to acne breakouts and irritation. Additionally, sweat can cause skin to become more prone to rashes and infections, especially if you don’t shower daily. A gentle cleanser will wash away the dirt without stripping your skin of its natural oils, a microbiome.

If you have oily skin, try a refreshing but gentle foaming gel cleanser that removes excess oil.

On the other hand, if you have dry skin, then it is better to go for a creamy, hydrating cleanser that leaves your skin feeling soft and not tight.

Personally, I use the same cleanser all year round, but that is probably because I don’t lay in the sun at all. 

2. Moderate Exfoliation

Why? 

Exfoliating removes dead skin cells that make your skin look a bit greyish. Because of the UV light, it is extra important to do it less. Combining higher humidity and increased sweat naturally helps the skin shed dead skin cells more efficiently. So, if you overdo it, your skin’s imaginary middle finger might rise, and then you are in trouble.

If you already have oily skin, you can exfoliate more safely, but be gentle.

If your skin is sensitive/dry, stick to gentle exfoliants and limit to once a week.

I have combination skin, and I have found it very useful and refreshing to use Caudalíe’s Vinoperfect Concentrated Brightening Glycolic Essence. Not every morning, but when I feel like it.

3. Hydration

Why? 

Hot weather can dry out your skin, making it look and feel extremely dry. Good skincare, including moisturizers and drinking more water, can help alleviate parched skin. Lightweight, water-based moisturisers are your best friends—they hydrate without clogging your pores.

If you have oily skin, look for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturisers.

But if you have dry skin, choose light creams that pack a hydrating punch.

I have always been bad at drinking enough water.  I had some blood tests done at the beginning of this year, and it turned out certain things were elevated. Once I set a goal to drink enough water with a one-liter bottle, blood tests came out okay again. My favorite summer drink is unsweetened cranberry or blueberry juice with sparkling water. I very very very rarely drink alcohol.

4. Sunscreen

Why? 

I would use sunscreen because it protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays and is crucial in preventing premature aging and sunburn. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is a must. You can use organic/chemical or mineral sunscreen.

In this case, if you have sensitive skin, the mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide might work better.

I tend to wear sunscreen all year round. Until now, I have used chemical sunscreens, but the more I research, the more I am interested in trying physical and hybrid sunscreens. Sun makes the hyperpigmentation on my face seem darker, so for that reason, I also use sunscreen regularly.  

5. After-Sun Care

Why?

If you’ve had too much sun, soothing ingredients like aloe vera can help heal and hydrate your skin. Aloe vera gel provides a cooling sensation when applied to the skin, which can offer immediate relief from the heat and discomfort of sunburn.

For all skin types, I recommend products for sensitive skin, which are usually the safest bet after sunbathing.

With these steps, you’re all set for a summer of healthy, glowing skin. Remember, skincare is personal, so feel free to tweak this routine to fit your needs.

Enjoy the sunshine, and take care of your beautiful skin!

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