When sun’s rays are strong, we have to switch up our usual routine. Now, we’re hoping that you’re following the basics of good skincare to start off, such as sunscreen twice a day, exfoliation no more than twice a week, a good moisturizer that fits your skin type and gentle cleansing (no baking soda or soap!) twice a day. With those basics set, here’s how to best step up your skin care to match the summer season.
Slather on Sunscreen—at Night
This is a way to build up sunscreen on your skin over the course of 2-3 weeks before you take off on a beach vacation. That way, it cuts down on the possibilities of burning, which is never fun. Don’t forget that the rule for sunscreen is reapplying during the day: a teaspoon for the face, a shot glass-ful for the body, every 2 hours. Forgo tanning in lieu of self-tanners and a bit of strategic bronzer so body skin matches facial skin.
Mist Up
Bring a nice mist that’s packed with antioxidants so you can spritz a little every so often—preferably from under a protective umbrella or canopy to protect from the sun’s rays.
Spray Your Scalp, Too
We forget that our scalp can be exposed to the sun even with a full head of hair, so hit your hairline and part with a spray that protects from both UVB and UVA rays before you frolic on the sand.
Take Care of Your Kisser
A good lip balm with nice SPF (15 or above, plus make sure it’s broad-spectrum) can keep your lips from drying out in the summer heat.
Switch Up Sunscreens
According to skin care product formulators at Adore Cosmetics, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are great sun-blockers but can show up ashy-looking on darker skin. So first, skip the notion that dark skin doesn’t need protection, too, and then try a sunscreen with avobenzone, homosalate or oxybenzone, among others, which protect well while working well with darker skin.
Peel Away
You definitely don’t want the peeling that comes from sunburn. However, chemical peels administered by a good dermatologist can be helpful during the summer to clear away dead skin and excess oils in the pores. These kinds of peels are heavy-duty, so you want to limit them to no more than two and consult your dermatologist as far as skin protection and maintenance, not to mention get a clear understanding of their benefits and drawbacks.