Summertime brings so many things we enjoy — warmer temperatures, sunnier days, and plenty of beach and pool time. Although summer opens the door to outdoor adventures, your skin shouldn’t suffer for them. It’s important to revisit your skincare routine to ensure that your skin is protected and cared for all season long.
From preventative measures to dermatological procedures, there are myriad ways to ensure your skin’s healthy glow, no matter what time of year. Discover several key tips for maintaining flawless skin this summer.
Manage Your Sweat
As summer temperatures and humidity soar, so does our sweat! Whether you’re working outdoors or performing an outside activity, sweating is the body’s natural way of releasing toxins and keeping your body cool.
Though sweating is a natural and necessary process for body temperature regulation, it’s important to take extra care during the summer to prevent excessive sweat from clogging your skin’s pores and thereby allowing bacteria to grow on the surface. Bacterial growth on your skin can lead to inflammation and acne, so take a few small steps like wearing breathable fabrics, such as linen or cotton, that better allow for airflow and absorb sweat.
If profuse sweating is already an area of concern, you may have a condition called hyperhidrosis. This medical condition can be addressed with Botox or iontophoresis treatments. Call our office at (203) 323-5660 to learn more.
Rinse After Swimming
Swimming is the perfect summer activity to help you stay cool and comfortable, but have you ever considered how the water you swim in can impact your skin? If you’re taking a dip in a chlorinated swimming pool, it is a smart idea to take special care to protect your skin from damage.
Though chlorine helps keep us safe from bacteria and other undesirable substances that can invade pool water, submerging yourself in an overchlorinated pool can negatively impact your skin by drying it out and causing minor irritation. To combat these effects, be sure to rinse off with clean water after you swim then apply a moisturizer to replenish the natural oils in your skin. Try Avene's Moisturizing Melt-In Balm, which conditions while protecting skin from oxidative stress.
Protect from Ultraviolet Damage
During the summer, the Northern Hemisphere receives more direct sunlight than any other time of year. With more direct sunlight comes a greater threat from harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause damage to your skin. If you plan to be outside between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., there are several preventative measures you can take to limit your skin’s exposure to the sun’s most dangerous rays.
Keep your skin protected by wearing shade-providing clothes, sunglasses and hats, a strong SPF sunscreen, and vitamin C serum. Dr. Evans also recommends taking Heliocare pills 15-20 minutes before going out in the sun to boost your body’s natural anti-oxidant sun protection; take another two pills 3-4 hours later if you are in the sun all day. Be sure to choose a sunscreen that’s a physical blocker rather than a chemical sunscreen. Try one of the Elta MD sunscreens, which are medical grade and include products that are safe for all skin types.
If you find yourself sunburned, help your skin begin the healing process by drinking lots of water to stay hydrated and applying a moisturizer that contains aloe vera. Though it’s best to avoid sunburn if possible, it’s equally important to address it effectively after the fact. Dr. Evans recommends that you take an anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen if you are able to, try our Post Laser lotion or Cu-intense repair cream—both of which you can find in our store. If your sunburn is more severe or if you have blisters, come into the office for an evaluation.
Nourish with a HydraFacial
If you find your skin requires a thirst-quenching boost this summer, you may want to consider a HydraFacial. HydraFacials include both physical and chemical exfoliation that removes embedded debris, contaminants, dead skin cells, and oils while supplying nourishing super serums. This procedure is performed with a special handheld device that delivers moisture to your skin in a variety of ways without being abrasive to your skin. After a HydraFacial, your revitalized skin will be noticeably improved in texture, tone, and elasticity.
Dr. Evans adds that during the summer, certain types of skin rashes or conditions like acne, folliculitis, and tinea versicolor may flare up. Visit the office for an evaluation to help you manage these conditions. Call 1 (203) 323-5660 to book your appointment.
The Bottom Line
Keep your skin happy throughout the summer by incorporating these tips into your skincare routine. Though the warm, sunny days lure us outside, it’s a good idea to take extra steps to ensure your skin is protected from harmful UV rays, swimming pool chemicals, and excessive sweat. From taking simple preventative measures to seeking out dermatological assistance, be kind to your skin this summer!