Summer means warmer weather, longer days, and plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors, but it also means taking a little extra effort to take care of your skin. Once the temperature rises and the sun comes out in force, the combination of heat, humidity, and ultraviolet radiation can cause lasting skin damage if you don’t take the proper precautions to protect it. For example, if laser hair removal is on your list of skincare treatments, that’s one procedure to get out of the way before summer. Establishing a solid summer skincare routine is, thankfully, a simple task, and one essential for maintaining a healthy complexion throughout the hot summer months.
To take the guesswork out of the equation, here are some essential dos and don'ts for summer skin protection to help you assess your daily routine and make the right changes for your skin’s sake.
1. Are You Applying Enough Sunscreen Daily? (Do)
Applying sunscreen is all well and good, but proper application and in the right quantity is even more vital. For optimal protection against the scorching summer sun, it pays to be generous with your application. Even more important than applying sunscreen is reapplication. The layer you apply in the morning won’t last through the afternoon, especially after sweating or swimming. Keep a bottle on hand and reapply your sunscreen every two hours.
2. Are You Forgetting to Seek Shade During Peak Hours? (Don't)
Combining sunscreen with shade is a great way to maximize your protection throughout the day. This is particularly helpful from late morning to mid-afternoon when the sun is at its hottest. Spending extended periods in direct sunlight during this window significantly increases the risk of sunburn and long-term damage. To avoid that damage, find some shade under trees, umbrellas, or awnings when the heat is at its worst. You can also schedule any outdoor workouts or yard work for cooler times like early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak radiation.
3. Are You Hydrating Your Body and Skin Properly? (Do)
Proper hydration is always important, especially when it’s hot and you’re more likely to sweat and lose moisture. The simplest tip to keep you hydrated out there is drinking plenty of water when you have to go out on a sunny day. Drinking at least two to three litres of water daily helps maintain internal hydration, which can contribute to skin elasticity and appearance. Altering your skincare regimen can help as well by swapping heavy winter creams for more lightweight, water-based moisturizers. These formulas can help lock in hydration without clogging pores or feeling greasy when the weather turns humid.
4. Are You Relying Solely on Makeup for Sun Defence? (Don't)
Makeup’s job is to bolster your appearance, and not to provide sun protection. Many foundations and powders advertise built-in sun protection, which can create a false sense of security. To achieve the protection level listed on a makeup bottle, an impractical amount of product would need to be applied. Always start with a dedicated broad-spectrum sunscreen as a base layer before putting on any cosmetics.
5. Are You Wearing Protective Clothing and Accessories? (Do)
The right clothing can serve as an effective physical barrier against the harsh rays of the sun. Opt for tightly woven fabrics that prevent light from passing through. You can also go the extra mile and look into UPF clothing to maximize your protection. Pair your clothes with wide-brimmed hats to provide more coverage for the face, neck, and shoulders. Additionally, high-quality sunglasses aren’t just for keeping the glare out of your eyes; they’re vital for protecting the delicate skin around the eyes and preventing squinting, which can contribute to the formation of fine lines.
6. Are You Skipping Exfoliation Routine Adjustments? (Don't)
Removing your facial products properly is as important as applying them in the first place. Sweat, excess oil, and layers of sunscreen can easily lead to clogged pores and breakouts during the summer. Regular exfoliation helps remove dead cells, and keep the complexion clear. However, take care not to over-exfoliate; over-exfoliating strips the skin of its natural oils and can increase irritation and sun sensitivity. Limit the use of scrubs or chemical exfoliants to once or twice a week, and always follow up with diligent sun protection.
7. Are You Ignoring Your Lips, Ears, and Scalp? (Do)
Applying sunscreen to the arms, legs, and face is standard for most people; however, there are other vulnerable areas that deserve protection as well. The lips, the tops of the ears, and the scalp are also incredibly susceptible to burns and need protection too. Use a dedicated lip balm with a high SPF and reapply it frequently. For the scalp, wear a hat or apply a specialized spray designed for exposed hair parts and thinning areas.
8. Are You Neglecting Post-Sun Care and Cooling? (Don't)
Proper post-sun care is as important as pre-sun care. The simplest thing you can do is take a cool shower to refresh after a day in the sun. After a long day outside, taking a shower helps lower the skin's temperature and wash away sweat. Follow up with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to calm redness and help restore lost moisture. Treating the skin gently after exposure is just as important as the preventative steps taken earlier in the day.
Protecting your skin requires consistent effort and awareness, but it’s not a task that demands too much effort. By asking yourself these questions and adjusting your daily habits, you can comfortably enjoy the season while also keeping your complexion safe, healthy, and radiant all summer long.
Prioritize wellness by booking a soothing treatment at Jolanta's European Spa. We provide a wide range of treatments, from microneedling to waxing, all to help rejuvenate your skin and enhance your appearance. When you need a professional spa to help you feel refreshed, we’re just a phone call away.
Contact Jolanta's European Spa at (519) 725-9999 and schedule an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Skincare
1. Do You Need Sunscreen If You Stay Indoors All Day?
Ultraviolet rays can easily penetrate standard glass windows. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning can help protect your skin from incidental exposure while working or driving.
2. How Often Should You Reapply Sunscreen When Swimming?
Water and towel drying can remove protective lotions rapidly. You’ll need to reapply right after towelling off, or at least every 40 to 80 minutes, while in the water, to maintain an effective barrier.
3. Can You Safely Use Last Year’s Sunscreen This Summer?
Active ingredients can degrade over time, which may reduce their protective capabilities. Always check the expiration date on the bottle. If the product has changed in colour or consistency, discard it immediately.
4. What Clothing Colours Will Offer the Best Sun Defence?
Darker colours absorb more ultraviolet radiation than lighter shades, helping to reduce the amount that reaches your body. Tightly woven fabrics in dark or bright hues provide excellent physical protection during outdoor activities.
5. Does Sweating Reduce the Effectiveness of Your Moisturizer?
Excessive, heavy sweating can affect many standard skincare products. Switch to water-resistant, gel-based moisturizers during warmer months if they are appropriate for your skin type. These formulas absorb quickly and may feel more comfortable during intense physical exertion outside.