Have you ever wondered how to get your skin ready for summer? As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, your skin could use a little extra care to look its best. Before you dust off your favorite shorts or plan that beach getaway, let's talk about five fantastic ways to prep your skin for the season. You might be surprised at how a few simple changes in your routine can give your skin that sun-kissed glow you'll love.
When it comes to preparing your skin for summer, exfoliation is like the reset button. It helps remove dead skin cells, revealing the fresher, smoother skin underneath. You see, your skin is constantly renewing itself, but sometimes it needs a little help to shed the old and bring in the new.
Think of dead skin cells as the party guests who just won't leave. If they hang around too long, they can clog your pores and make your skin look dull. Exfoliating regularly – at least once a week – can help your skin breathe and absorb moisturizing products more effectively.
You don't need a fancy scrub to exfoliate effectively. A gentle scrub with natural ingredients like sugar or coffee grounds works wonders. Remember, though, not to overdo it. Exfoliating too often can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Twice a week should do the trick for most people.
Chemical exfoliants, like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), are another excellent option. They provide a deeper exfoliation and are particularly effective for acne-prone skin. Just make sure to follow up with sunscreen, as these products can make your skin more susceptible to UV rays.
Hydration is often an underrated step in skincare. You might be hydrating your plants voraciously during summer, but are you giving your skin the same attention? Drinking enough water is crucial, but it's only half the battle.
Your skin is a mirror reflecting what’s happening inside your body. When you're dehydrated, it shows up as dry, flaky skin or even more oiliness, as your skin tries to compensate. Make it a habit to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
Hydrating your skin from the outside is just as crucial. Summer calls for lighter moisturizers. Choose one that's water-based, with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to a thousand times its weight in water. It’s like giving your skin a big glass of refreshing lemonade.
Consider using a hydrating serum or sheet mask once a week for an extra boost. These can deliver more concentrated ingredients, giving your skin the extra love it needs. Again, check for hydrating ingredients, like glycerin or ceramides, which help lock in moisture.
If there's one tip you absolutely cannot skip, it’s sun protection. The sun is both a friend and a foe. While it gives us the vitamin D we crave, it can also cause premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer.
The numbers on the sunscreen bottle (like SPF 30) aren't just for show. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well the sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays, the type of radiation that causes sunburn. Ideally, you should be using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
Applying sunscreen properly is just as important as choosing the right one. Make sure to use about a shot glass worth of sunscreen for your entire body. Don’t forget tricky spots like the back of your neck, ears, and the tops of your feet. And yes, you need to reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
While sunscreen is crucial, it shouldn’t be your only line of defense. Wearing protective clothing, like wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts, can provide additional protection. Look for clothes with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for extra assurance.
| SPF Number | Protection Level | Reapplication Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | Basic (93%) | Every 2 hours |
| 30 | Good (97%) | Every 2 hours |
| 50 | Excellent (98%) | Every 2 hours |
Your skin is what you eat – literally! The right nutrients can help improve your skin's texture, fight off sun-induced damage, and even keep breakouts at bay.
Focus on foods rich in antioxidants, like berries, leafy greens, and nuts. Vitamin C is particularly potent in boosting collagen production, while vitamin E helps in repairing skin. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseed, provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Just like drinking water, eating hydrating foods can keep your skin supple and glowing. Cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges are not only tasty but pack a good hydration punch as well.
It’s also crucial to avoid foods that can harm your skin. Processed sugars and high-glycemic foods can spike your blood sugar levels, which in turn can cause breakouts and make your skin look dull.
Sometimes your skin needs the professional touch. From facials to microdermabrasion, point clear studio offers a range of treatments that can help you achieve that summer glow.
One excellent option is a chemical peel, which removes several layers of dead skin to reveal smoother skin underneath. There’s also the hydrafacial, which cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates all in one go. Microneedling can help with fine lines and pigmentation, making your skin look tighter and more even.
Summer is all about looking naturally beautiful without spending hours in front of the mirror. That's where permanent makeup comes in. Ashley Greer, MPH, PA-C, at Point Clear Studio, specializes in procedures like eyebrow microshading and lip blushing, which can save you a ton of time. These treatments not only enhance your natural beauty but also stay intact through sweat, swim, and sun. It is also pertinent to apply sunscreen regularly to your face once your permanent makeup has healed properly.
Point Clear Studio, located at 5925 Sweetwater Cir., Fairhope, AL, is owned and operated by Ashley Greer. As a board-certified Physician Assistant with a passion for beauty, Ashley brings her medical expertise to every treatment. Alongside Dr. Phillip Greer, a skilled board-certified general dentist trained in non-surgical injectables, they offer a comprehensive range of services aimed at enhancing your natural beauty. Whether you're considering a facial, Botox, or areola tattooing, you'll be in expert hands.
You’ve got their contact info: (251) 383-8535, and you can find more details on their website.
Prepping your skin for summer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these top five tips – exfoliating regularly, hydrating inside and out, sun protection, eating a skin-healthy diet, and considering professional treatments – you’ll be well on your way to glowing, healthy skin. Remember, your skin is an investment, and the care you put into it now will pay off in the long run.