Summer is quickly on its way, but after the harsh climate of winter is your skin ready for swimsuits and sandals? Try these tips to help your skin get & keep that healthy glow!
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliate regularly to shed dull winter skin. This should be done with care and can be done gently with a clay soap. If your skin requires a bit more exfoliation, move to a soap that has exfoliating ingredients, like oatmeal, added to it. An even stronger exfoliation can be achieved by washing with a loofah instead of a washcloth, or using a salt or sugar scrub. The key is to make sure you are only removing the outer layer of skin cells that are ready to be sloughed off without stripping your skin. Exfoliating at least once per week will improve your skin’s appearance and texture, giving you a nice healthy glow.
Hydrate Your Skin Regularly
Just as important as exfoliating is keeping your skin hydrated. Switch to a lighter moisturizer in the summer months, as the thicker creams & moisturizers you used in the winter months are no longer necessary.
But moisturizers aren’t the only way to keep your skin soft & supple – your diet plays a role as well. Properly hydrating improves the elasticity of your skin and aid in finding that healthy glow. Trust your thirst and make sure you are taking in plenty of water at all times. It is normal for you to need more water on hotter days. Carry a water bottle with you and drink often.
Cleanse Morning & Night
Cleanse your face at least twice per day to remove the sweat, oils & dirt we tend to pick up when we are outside in the summer. This will keep your skin clean and healthy, and help to avoid any unsightly breakouts.
Don’t forget the Sunscreen!
After you have taken these steps to prepare your skin for the summer sun, you must now protect that healthy skin with sunscreen. Applying sunscreen is essential to prevent damaging your skin from sunburn, premature aging, and dry, dull skin. Sunscreens with Zinc or Titanium (mineral-based SPF) are believed to block UV rays more effectively (check the ingredients on the bottle). Don’t forget to use sunscreen on the exposed scalp and all the way down to your feet – any unprotected area can burn. Reapply your sunscreen every two hours while you are outside.