Changing Your Skincare Routine for Summer
Summertime Skin
During the winter, you slathered on moisturizer to combat the effects of harsh weather and dry indoor heating. In the spring, you dealt with the changeability of the season. As we head into summer, how can you adjust your routine to better suit your skin’s changing needs? We have some tips for changing your skincare routine for summer.
Protect Your Skin from Sun
Of course, you might have guessed that the first thing on our list would be sunscreen. Sunscreen should be worn all year, because using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 reduces your risk of skin cancer significantly, as well as protecting against the signs of aging. It is most important in the summer months, though, because that is when we spend the most time outdoors. Experts recommend using a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. Should you go higher than 30, for extra protection? Not necessarily. While 30 offers much more protection than 15, higher than 30 does not make much more of a difference. Remember to wear moisturizing lip balm as well as sunscreen; lips can get skin cancer, too.
Go Beyond Sunscreen
Sunscreen is not the only protective measure you should be using in the summer. Sun-protective accessories and clothing can also be a big help, as can common sense measures. Stay inside when the sun is at its peak, and wear wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses that provide UV400 sun protection. Choose clothing with tightly woven fabric and summer-friendly clothing with added UV protection.
Keep Your Skin Clean in Summer
When you are hot and sweaty, you may feel the urge to constantly wash your face or take a shower. While it’s important to stay clean in summer, experts advise being a little bit cautious, because the oils your skin produces can help protect the skin against dehydration. Shower once a day, taking a second shower after a vigorous workout, if necessary, and wash your face morning and night with a gentle cleanser. Whenever you cleanse your skin in summer, use lukewarm water, rather than hot, to avoid drying out your skin. If your skin seems too oily during the day, use blotting papers to gently remove oil. You can exfoliate once or twice a week, to prevent pores rom becoming clogged, but don’t do it if you are sunburned and don’t do it more than twice a week.
Continue to Moisturize
While your skin does not need the heavy moisturizers you may have been using in the winter months, it still needs help staying hydrated. Look for a moisturizer that is lighter than your winter creams, and choose one with added SPF. Don’t make the mistake though, of thinking that the SPF in your moisturizer is enough to protect your skin. Instead, layer on the protection, using additional SPF 30 sunscreen and reapplying every two hours.
Pull Back on Makeup
Heavy makeup doesn’t feel great on hot days, and it’s easy to sweat it off, which isn’t a good look. It’s more attractive and better for your skin to lighten up on the makeup, allowing your skin to breathe. Consider replacing foundation with a tinted moisturizer that contains SPF 30 sun protection. That way, you get light coverage as well as protection from UV rays.
Contact Swinyer-Woseth for All Your Skincare Needs
When you’re looking for a dermatologist to help you care for your skin, look to Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology. Committed to providing superior, professional skin care in a manner that’s practical, efficient, and compassionate, we have the knowledge and skill not only to treat your skin but also to recommend skincare products to help you care for your skin at home. With over 30 years of experience providing dermatological services in Salt Lake City, we provide a variety of services, from cosmetic skincare to treatment for skin cancer. Our team of board-certified dermatologists and licensed cosmetic service providers are here to provide you with the care you need in a comfortable, professional atmosphere. Call (801) 682-4715 or contact us through our website.