Maintaining a good skin care routine is important year-round, but with the warmer weather comes a new set of challenges that can affect your healthy glow. The heat and humidity increase oil production, clogged pores, and breakouts, meaning your skin will have different needs than it does in the cooler months. As such, it’s essential to make a few adjustments to your regimen. Here are some key tips for protecting your skin during summer.

A Guide to Summer Skin Care

1. Limit Sun Exposure 

Applying sunscreen should be a daily habit, even on cloudy days. However, it becomes especially critical in summer, when you’re more prone to long periods of sun exposure. Without sunscreen, there’s not only a greater chance of getting burnt, but your skin will also age faster and develop a higher risk for skin cancer. Use products that are at least SPF 30 and have broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. 

2. Stay Hydrated 

Dehydration is a serious concern in rising temperatures, since the body is more likely to lose water through sweating. This can cause your skin to become irritated and dry. Be sure to keep up your intake of water throughout the summer so your skin will remain hydrated and appear refreshed. You can also use skin care products that contain hyaluronic acid to enhance your hydration efforts.

3. Exfoliate 

The summer season is the perfect time to get rid of dead skin cells. Introducing exfoliation to your skin care routine will help open up blocked pores and remove oil, dirt, and sweat buildup, which can prevent acne flare-ups. However, this should only be done once or twice a week to keep your skin from becoming too sensitive to the sun and more vulnerable to burning. 

4. Moisturize Daily 

Though your skin may be sweatier and greasier when it’s hot outside, it’s still vital to moisturize every day. Spending any time in air conditioning can deplete a great deal of moisture from your skin, leaving it dull. The difference is, you’ll want to switch out the heavier cream you use during the dry winter months for one that’s more lightweight to avoid feeling sticky.

For help keeping your skin looking and feeling its best, turn to Craig Austin Dermatology in Fishkill, NY. Serving residents throughout Dutchess County, this dermatology practice is dedicated to providing high-quality skin care solutions that are tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Their staff is trained and experienced in treating a wide range of conditions to give skin a brighter, smoother appearance. Call (845) 896-6669 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about the services they offer.