We love our Chicago summers. Now that life is returning closer to normal, it’s great spending time outside. But it’s also important to recognize that your summer skin care routine needs adjusting for the warm weather and increased humidity that come with the sunny season.
Here are a few tips to keep your skin clear and glowing even on hot and steamy summer days:
Start with a good cleanser
Great skin starts with clean skin. You may find using a foaming cleanser is better at removing the dirt and grime of the day while controlling excess oil production. Exfoliation also helps to remove dead, dulling skin. Just don’t overdo it!
Shower after sweating
That may sound obvious if you’ve been outside running or working out, but what about if you went to an outdoor event? You got hot and sweaty then, too. Shower when you get home! Your skin will appreciate your washing away all that dirt and grime, plus you’ll feel refreshed!
Hydrate — inside and out
Staying properly hydrated is even more important in the summer. Drinking lots of water helps maintain the critical moisture balance of your body and skin. Also, your skin needs the proper moisturizer to keep it looking and feeling its best. No matter what skin type you have, it will help create a protective barrier from harmful pollutants and chemicals.
Use your sunscreen
Buying the right sunscreen that’s broad-spectrum UVA/UVB of at least SPF 30 is a good start, but you must use it! Apply it to all exposed areas at least 30 minutes before going out. And remember to reapply every two hours while outdoors and after going in the water.
Limit sun exposure
Whenever possible, stay out of the sun from mid-morning to late afternoon. If you are out and about, wear sun-protective clothing, wide-brim hat, and sunglasses. Plus, remember that the shade is your friend.
Uh-Oh! You over-exposed your skin
Somehow, you thought you were protecting yourself but maybe you missed a spot or two or didn’t apply enough sunscreen. Now your skin is red and inflamed. It hurts. Start by applying a soothing gel and cool compresses.
Get checked
Every sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer and ages your skin that much faster. The earlier detected, the more treatable it is. Therefore, schedule your annual skin checkup now. Please feel free to contact us to make an appointment.