Summer brings longer days, which is a great opportunity to spend more time outdoors, but it also presents challenges for our skin. These challenges are especially acute for those who work in direct sunlight. Increased exposure to UV rays, heat and humidity can lead to a variety of skin problems such as sunburn, dryness, clogged pores and even skin cancer.
To maintain healthy skin during the summer, it is essential to follow a healthy skin care routine. Below we explore the essential tips for skin care during the summer.
Use sunscreenIn the sun every day
No matter what your skin type is or how your body reacts to the sun, you should always use sunscreen, and you should reapply sunscreen two or three times a day.
Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of UV rays.
Wear protective clothing
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, and don’t forget to wear sunglasses that protect against ultraviolet rays.
Dark lenses don’t necessarily provide UV protection, so be sure to read the label before you buy them. Wear shoes that cover your feet. If you wear open shoes or go barefoot, be sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin.
Use face wash daily.
If you have acne, use an antibacterial cleanser. For example, look for one that contains benzoyl peroxide, an antibacterial agent recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology for treating acne. If you have oily skin, use an exfoliating face wash that contains salicylic acid to keep your pores clear.
People with combination skin can use a toner after washing and before using moisturizer to keep their skin clean. Toner is a substance that removes any remaining dirt after cleansing, but it does so gently, according to the Cleveland Clinic website.
Use a light moisturizer.
If you find that the moisturizer you’re using is too heavy this time of year, consider using a lighter moisturizer, such as one that contains hyaluronic acid.
What to avoid to protect your skin in the summer
- Do not expose yourself to sunlight.
- Seek shade, and remember that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Don’t think that the burn ends with aloe vera.
- Aloe vera is only a temporary treatment for sunburn and does not reduce the risk of skin damage. Skin cancer develops slowly over time, according to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. With each sunburn, your risk of skin cancer increases, and it can take years for a sunburn to turn into a cancerous spot on your skin.