Exercise X Skin Care: What You Need to Know
It’s almost time for summer, and you know what that means — beach days, tropical vacations and spending time outdoors! But after the long and harsh climate of the winter months, there’s no doubt your skin will be ill-prepared for the summer sun. To help cleanse and hydrate your skin, try these simple techniques to keep it revitalized all summer long – Get Glowing!
Always Remember to Exfoliate
Exfoliation is crucial in helping your skin’s longevity through the summer heat. “I always suggest and love for people to start the new season by getting their skin chemically exfoliated…this helps to shed dull winter skin and aid in the [skins] transition into the warmer, humid weather” says Dr. Shawe. Once you’ve done this, you should continue an exfoliating regiment at home. By utilizing a gentle scrub at least once a week, you can remove dead, flaky skin from both your face and body, preventing blemishes as well as a dull appearance. Exfoliating weekly (not daily) can be extremely beneficial for the skins appearance and texture, especially to help with cell turnover and removing dirt and oils left on the skin’s surface.
Avoid Breakouts
The oil glands on the skin’s surface are much more active in warmer climates. The more oil that is present on your skin, the more susceptible you become to breakouts. Acne can occur at any stage of life and may continue into one’s 30s and 40s. If you are someone who struggles with acne or oily skin, introduce toner into your daily routine! Try using a toner mid-day to remove sweat and oil that builds up, and use a topical acne treatment before bed that will help control breakouts and smooth your skin’s surface. Make your daily skincare regimen a priority.
Hydrate Your Skin Regularly
Just as important as exfoliating is keeping your skin hydrated. “Transition [your] moisturizers to ones that are a lot lighter [during the summer], because [you] don’t need the thickness of winter moisture. A light cream, lotion or serum will do in the summer,” notes Dr. Shawe. People can neglect caring for their dry skin by skipping this crucial step. If you neglect to care for the dryness of your skin, your oil glands can overcompensate and create more oil, which can create breakouts.
Apply an SPF Daily
This should come as no surprise to women who have a regular skincare routine. Applying sufficient amounts of SPF each day will not only protect you from the sun’s harmful rays but keep skin invigorated and glowing as well. Dr. Shawe believes that out of all other skin treatments, “SPF is the most important [for your skin’s health]. You should only use an SPF with Zinc or Titanium (mineral-based SPF) because these block UV A rays much more effectively.” She goes on to state the importance of checking the labels of your SPF. “[Always] turn the bottle around and check for Zinc or Titanium as one of the active ingredients,” she urges. Additionally, don’t forget your scalp, or the tops of your feet — two places that often get neglected when you’re applying SPF. ELTA MD UV Spray is great for easy application on these areas, especially the scalp. Reapply every two hours you are exposed to natural sunlight.
Drink Water
If you find yourself being exposed to UV rays on a daily basis, you may find yourself sweating to keep your body cool. In order to balance this loss of bodily fluids, you should drink water often and plentifully. Water not only improves the overall elasticity of your skin but gives it a hydrated appearance as well. You will notice a big difference in your skin’s overall quality by drinking several glasses a day. Make it a priority to consume water every hour if possible, and carry bottled water with you wherever you go.
Summer is the most enjoyable time of the year but it is crucial to prepare and take care of your skin with the changing season. Make the time to adequately hydrate and moisturize your skin before enjoying the warm temperatures. Cleanse your skin regularly and don’t let your busy schedule throw off your daily skin routine. Always remove your makeup before bed and remember to exfoliate to keep your skin glowing. Make the best of your summer by invigorating your body and rejuvenate your skin’s appearance.
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Tips from Dr. Toby Shawe from an interview with Hers
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