Summer Skin Care Routine: Necessary or Not?

“Lately I have been hearing that I should change my face skin care products for the summer.  How important is it to change my skin care routine? I do not want to have to spend a lot of money on new products, but don’t mind buying one or two new things. “

 -Reader, Nancy M.

Summer is such a wonderful time of year! We are out later, it’s nice and warm, and we get to wear shorts, flip flips and bathing suits almost every day (which is especially true here in sunny Southern California!). The change in temperature and amount of time that we spend outside does affect our skin care routines since we are even more exposed to the sun’s rays, as well as sweating from participating in outdoor activities.

That creamy moisturizer that you purchased during the winter may have worked wonders for your dry skin a few months ago, but could all of a sudden be causing you to break out. This doesn’t mean that it does not work and that you should get rid of it, just swap it out for a while with something lighter. Consider a gel, water, or light oil-based moisturizer or hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid (a super hydrating humectant that won’t clog pores).

Gel-based facial cleansers and masques are also something to consider adding to your skincare routine; they are calming and cooling for skin that may be a bit red and irritated from too much time out in the sun. While you’re at it, be sure to start applying your sunscreen each day. There are a variety of dual moisturizers/sunscreens out on the market, and they come in various finishes – like hydrating for drier skin, and matte for oilier skin – and you can even find some tinted varieties that give you just enough coverage so you can skip the heavy foundation. I don’t know about you, but I can’t stand the feel of a lot of foundation and powder dripping down my face during hot summer days. Tinted sunscreen feels nice and light without clogging the pores.

Home care products are of course important for maintaining vibrant and youthful skin, but facials are just as important during the summer as they are any other time of the year. Skin can quickly become ruddy and rough during the summer, and pores are quick to become clogged with excess oil and sweat, debris and heavy sunscreens that are meant for the body but not the face. Skin pigmentation (hyper pigmentation) is also a very common side effect of fun in the summer sun, causing a lot of concern for many people once summer is over and all of that pigmentation starts to surface and become noticeable. Summer is not the time for deep chemical peels, but light enzyme facial treatments that include vitamin c, and microdermabrasion are perfect options when coupled with the regular use of sunscreen to help keep the pores clean, and skin looking bright and even-toned.

 Looking for some summertime skin care options? Here are some of my favorites:

An advanced polypeptide/antioxidant formula of vitamins A, C, E to promote hydration and reduce signs of aging.

This next generation pure physical broad spectrum UVA/UVB moisturizer provides an even skin tone and healthy glow while protecting against the damaging effects of the sun. Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 is enriched with essential vitamins and potent antioxidants as free radical scavengers.

An ultra-gentle, organic cooling gel masque developed for compromised, inflamed or irritated skin. Organic Aloe Vera, Arnica Montana and licorice quickly help reduce redness and other signs of irritation while bringing sensitive skin into healthy balance. Also may used for highly reactive, rosacea or acneic skin types

An ultra-gentle, organic cooling gel masque developed for compromised, inflamed or irritated skin. Organic Aloe Vera, Arnica Montana and licorice quickly help reduce redness and other signs of irritation while bringing sensitive skin into healthy balance. Also may used for highly reactive, rosacea or acneic skin types

Unique and pure, this highly concentrated and botanically derived hyaluronic filler is infused with an apricot essential oil and potent antioxidant Vitamin E. Skin will feel pure hydration in just one application. Skin looks and feels younger instantly.

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Adriana is a California licensed esthetician located by the beach in beautiful Ventura, Southern California. She specializes in lash extensions and brow shaping, as well as results-oriented skincare treatments. When she is not teaching clients about the benefits of a beautifully arched brow, expertly applied lashes, and a dedicated skincare routine, she tries to enjoy working out and loves going out to different breweries and restaurants.

Questions or comments? Contact Adriana at adriana@skincarebyadriana.com