look after your skin in summer

It’s not said enough, SUNSCREEN! This should be an essential part of your everyday skin care, not only in summer. But I’m still going to say it, apply sunscreen to all the exposed areas before you even think about stepping outside. The only different between summer and winter with UV rays is that you show more skin during summer than in winter so there is more to cover. After you get out of the shower in the morning on a summer day, before you get dressed into shorts and a singlet, apply sunscreen everywhere, this way you won’t miss anyway. Remember to play every 1 – 2 hours if you’re swimming or sweating. This isn’t as necessary in winter fortunately. In saying that, buy a new sunscreen every season.

Your body is constantly shedding skin cells so it’s important to keep that under control otherwise it will look dry and dull. Use a gentle exfoliant on your face every 2 days a week for dry skins and 3 days a week for oily skins. Ensure that it isn’t too harsh on the skin as it may end up damaging the acid mantle or causing broken capillaries. Use a body scrub on your body once a week, ensuring you apply lotion afterwards as this is the best time for it to soak into the fresh skin. Continue to use lofah gloves each time you shower with your body wash and this helps to slowly exfoliate away those dead skin cells and keep your skin smooth all year round.

If you want to be tanned for summer, I beg you… Please don’t cover yourself in coconut oil and lay out in the sun like they use to do. Get a professional spray or invest in a good at home spray or lotion. Find one that has had good reviews and works best for you. You’ll thank yourself when you’re older as it will slow down aging and lower your skin cancer risk.

Don’t forget to keep your lips protected, during winter they can become cracked from the wind. During summer, they can become cracked due to the heat and sun damage. Ensure you are constantly applying a lip balm or gloss that has at least SPF 15+ in it, this will help to keep them protected and moisturised.

Remember to drink your 8 glasses of water, more if needed to help keep your skin hydrated as well as your body. It’s a lot easier to lose fluid through perspiration during the hotter weather and your skin is the last organ to experience the benefits of hydration.

If you have drier skin, it is important to keep your skin moisturised and ensure that you are using the right sort. It should absorb well and not leave an oily layer and should contain antioxidants to protect your skin from UV rays and free radicals.

Try to op for a light foundation or tinted moisturiser during the summer months and keep your make up natural. Use a waterproof eyeliner and mascara if you intend to be spending your time in the sun or in the water. If you are sweating off your makeup, don’t rub or wipe it but dab it with wipes that are made for soaking up sweat but not rubbing off the makeup. Also powder your foundation before applying other products.