“Summer, summer, summertime, time to kick back and unwind”, so go the lines of the song ‘Summertime’ by Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff. The schools are shut already, and the weather’s getting hot and balmy – it looks like it’s a sign for us to unwind!
But even if you take it easy, the sun’s working harder than ever, and while nature’s taking its course, it also means bad news for your skin. Summer is when many of us face new skin challenges, thanks to the increased temperature, humidity, and intense heat.
During summer, skin tends to get oily, and people with oily skin tend to deal with more oil production than ever! This is because of the over-activity of the sebaceous glands, which produce more oil to compensate for the loss of hydration from the skin. This also causes the pores to open, which can get clogged with dirt and bacteria, leading to breakouts.
Too much sun exposure can also affect the melanin pigment in your skin, causing tanning and hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure is also a major cause of premature aging. But overexposure to the sun also has more severe effects. It increases your risk for melanoma, a more dangerous kind of skin cancer, as well as cataracts.
The damage isn’t limited to the outdoors. When you spend long hours in air-conditioned rooms, your skin dries out, leading to patchy, rough skin.
The only way to combat these problems is with a good, solid skincare routine. If you’ve already got one in place or are about to start one, we’ve got the best tips to tweak your routine for summer, so that you have soft, glowing skin all season!
12 Tips to Take Care of your Skin in Summer
Change Your Face Wash
As the first step in any skincare routine, cleansing is crucial for healthy skin. What is more important is your choice of face wash as warmer weather sets in. Skin out thick, creamy face washes and go for lighter, non-foaming cleansers.
A cleanser with salicylic acid or multani mitti is perfect for oily skin, it is one of the multani mitti benefits for face to prevent acne breakouts on your face. Gel-based face washes also tend to be more refreshing and light for summers.
Close Pores With a Toner
After cleansing, the next step is to use a toner. Toners are particularly important during summer, since sweating can open up the pores, and leaving them open can be an invitation for dirt and bacteria.
Choose a face toner suitable for your skin type and take care of the T-zone. The T-zone has the most sebaceous glands and tends to become the oiliest.
Switch Up Your Moisturizer
Most people think of moisturizers as a winter skincare requirement, and they are a must in winters, but that doesn’t mean you can do away with them in summer! Moisturizers don’t just keep your skin soft and supple, they also act as a protective layer against pollutants and dryness.
However, it is important to switch your moisturizer to light lotions and put away the thick winter face cream. Normal skin can do with a simple water based moisturizer, while oily skin types will thrive with a gel-based moisturizer. Avoid products that can end up clogging pores.
Exfoliate for Soft Skin
Now that we’ve taken care of the CTM routine, it’s time to take your skincare to the next level with exfoliation. If you’ve ever wondered whether you need to exfoliate or not, summer is the best time to do it.
Exfoliation gets rid of the dead skin cells that would otherwise just settle on the surface of the skin, giving it that rough appearance. Use a gentle face scrub a couple of times a week. Be careful to avoid over-exfoliating since it can result in bruising delicate facial skin.
Oily skin will find that Multani Mitti helps get rid of excess oil and prevents breakouts. AHAs also help open up clogged pores. Other ingredients to try are sandalwood, curd, turmeric, and tomatoes.
Wear Sunscreen
Yes, it’s summer, so you can’t do away with the sunscreen for sure! Sunscreen is essential in all seasons, but more in the summer since sun exposure is more. A good sunscreen can prevent fine lines and other signs of premature aging.
Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every three hours spent in the sun, using a teaspoon amount for the face and a shot glass for the body.
Choose a gel-based sunscreen for oily skin to prevent heaviness and breakouts. Ensure that sunscreen is applied to all parts of the body exposed to the sun.
Include Antioxidants in Your Routine
We all know that antioxidants are important in fighting free radicals that cause premature aging. Everyone’s talking about it, but it can be confusing as it’s hard to tell how you can incorporate it in skincare. Summer is the perfect time to introduce antioxidants, and the easiest way is via serums.
Serums are available for all skin types and contain concentrated ingredients that can solve many skin problems. Vitamin C is an excellent antioxidant that can clear hyperpigmentation, boost collagen, and prevent wrinkles.
Don’t Forget the Eyes and Lips
Most skin care products specify to exclude application on the eye and lip area. This is because these are delicate areas that need special care, especially during summer. Choose an eye cream with ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Pads dipped in cold potato juice or cucumber juice also help.
For the lips, choose a moisturizing lip balm with at least SPF 15. This also needs to be reapplied every 2-3 hours. Avoid petroleum jelly or glossy balms during the summer.
Go Easy on Makeup
With so much happening with your skin in summer, it’s best to cut down on the amount of makeup you generally wear. This allows the skin to breathe. Makeup just adds another layer that, in combination with heat and humidity, can lead to breakouts.
If you have to wear makeup, go for non-comedogenic makeup products, which will not clog pores. Choose lightweight formulations and combine products – like a tinted moisturizer that has SPF.
Use a Face Mist
If there was ever a season to use a face mist, summer is it! A face mist is great to keep skin hydrated without weighing it down, and it also acts as a great refresher on a hot day. Besides, face mists can soothe sunburn and make skin look soft.
Organic face mists are available, but you can easily make your own at home. All you need to do is mix cucumber juice with rose water and some mint. Spray it on whenever the skin feels dry or hot.
Remember the Rest of Your Body
When we speak of skincare, we tend to think only of the face, but this includes the rest of the body as well! Keep your body cool and save water by keeping your shower under five minutes. Use cold water that unclogs pores and keeps skin looking taut.
Pay special attention to hands and feet by keeping them clean and dry. Use a thicker moisturizer for the feet, and don’t forget the sunscreen. Try a weekly soak with some salts for a homemade pedicure.
Change Your Diet
It’s not just what you apply outside that affects your skin; what you consume is just as important. Heavy, greasy food can make skin oily and prone to acne. Processed food can also cause water retention and bloating.
Choose seasonal produce, especially fruits and vegetables that are rich in water content. Choose foods rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, like citrus fruits and green tea. Don’t forget to drink enough water, as it is the most important ingredient for healthy, hydrated skin.
Wear the Right Clothes
Take that extra step to protect your skin in summer by wearing the right clothes. Try to expose as little skin as possible to direct sunlight. Wear a large, wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, or carry an umbrella.
Always step out with sunglasses that have UV protection. Go with lenses in grey or brown shades for maximum protection and the least distortion of vision.
Make sure to follow these tips, and get healthy, younger-looking, and bright skin this summer. Now that you’re summer-ready, head out, and show off your glowing skin even when the sun is out!
