When summer arrives, bringing heat and humidity with it, you might feel as if the last thing you want to do is lather up your face with moisturizer. After all, it’s just going to feel heavy and greasy, isn’t it? But just because it’s summertime doesn’t mean you should neglect your skin, especially when you need to consider sun protection during this season more than any other. Instead, you should rethink your skincare routine with these five tips:
1. Prioritize sunscreen.
Ideally, you should be using sunscreen all year long. The sun’s rays can still be harmful throughout the winter, but summer means you’re likely spending a lot more time outdoors at a time when the UV rays are strongest. Opt for daily sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater and be sure to reapply every two hours.
2. A lighter moisturizer is okay.
In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s probably better. In heat and humidity, you don’t need the thick products you use in the winter to create a barrier and lock in your skin’s moisture. A moisturizer that’s too rich can cause milia, those tiny white cysts on your skin’s surface. Instead, choose a moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid, which keeps your skin hydrated without feeling heavy.
3. Use toner to freshen up.
Ever feel as if a hot summer day has just left you feeling gross? It’s normal. But don’t be so quick to give your face a thorough wash more than your usual twice-daily routine. You might already use a good toner for maintaining your skin’s pH while prepping it to absorb any skincare products you apply, but toner is especially good in the summertime because it can refresh your skin when you’ve been sweating or enjoying the outdoors, but it does so without irritating your skin or stripping away moisture the way frequent washing would.
4. Stay hydrated.
You can’t have hydrated skin if you’re…well, dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water is important for overall good health, especially in the summer when you’re exposed to the heat. That extends to your skin, as staying hydrated saves your skin from drying out and keeps it looking fresh and supple.
5. Wear less makeup.
Cutting back on the makeup you wear, especially if you typically wear heavy foundation, gives your skin a chance to breathe and relieves your skin of excess oil. Instead, consider using a tinted moisturizer instead, which isn’t as heavy or as irritating but will still give your skin the consistency you seek from makeup.
