Updating Your Skincare Routines For Summer

Just as we are unique in our personalities, body types, and other areas, we are unique in our skin needs. While sustainable skincare may work for you, others may require oral or topical prescriptions to keep their skin looking radiant. No matter where you fall on the skin spectrum, we all have in common that our skin needs will change with the seasons. So, with spring upon us and summertime right around the corner, you must switch up your skincare routine for the season to stay looking and feeling your best. If you're unsure where to start on the road to perfect summer skin, keep reading for important updates that we can all utilize this time of year. 

Visit Your Dermatologist  

If you don't already have a dermatologist that you trust on speed dial, it's time to start shopping for one. If you know friends and family members whose skin you admire, ask them for their derms number. If you don't have a local network of people, you can ask, look online and read reviews in your area. Meeting with a dermatologist is an essential first step to knowing what type of skin you have and how to correct the issues. You can also get any moles or rashes you may be looking at. Additionally, your dermatologist may prescribe you oral or topical pharmaceuticals to help you on your road to glowing skin if they feel it's necessary. 

Have A Spa Day 

Not only are spa days relaxing, but part of them is also getting a facial. If a spa experience isn't in your budget, you should try and at least get a facial done. While monthly facials are a great idea to keep your skin looking radiant, you should at least be getting facials with every season change. With all the products we slather on our skin daily, not to mention environmental toxins, having a deep cleansing facial is the best way to exfoliate all that off. Facials are also an excellent time for your esthetician to help you with minor skin issues and recommend products that work best for you. There are many types of facials out there that target different skin issues. Your esthetician can also help you whether you need uneven skin tone products, brightening, or anti-aging products. So, treat yourself to a facial before the summer starts.

Invest In Your Wardrobe 

While these aren't skincare products, they will do wonders for your skin's health. The skin on our face is very delicate, much more so than the rest of our bodies. So, you want to make sure you're protecting that soft skin with two vital wardrobe pieces - especially if you're spending extended periods under the sun. Before hitting the beach, make sure you have an oversized hat to protect your entire face. Hats are what dermatologists recommend to protect your skin along with SPF. Another wardrobe essential for your summer skincare is a pair of oversized sunglasses. You want to protect the skin around your eyes which is prone to early aging wrinkles known as "crow's feet." If you don't wear sunglasses, you'll be squinting, which will speed up the formation of lines around your eyes and between them - your "elevens." So, if you don't already have a chic sun hat and designer sunglasses, here's your pass to splurge.

Switch Your SPF

If you didn't already know that you're supposed to be wearing SPF year-round, here's your notice. If you've been wearing SPF during fall and winter, you've been wearing it as part of another product. These days it's easy to get your SPF on through your moisturizer and even your foundation. However, it would be best to have more than what's in those products when under direct sunlight while gardening, lying by the poolside, or any other summer activity. Add a layer of SPF only to your daytime skin routine to ensure adequate coverage. Make sure you're using SPF explicitly made for your facial skin as it has different needs than your body. If you are swimming or sweating, you'll need to reapply more often than you typically. Reapply after getting out of the water or you finish exercising - and if you've been under the sun for two to three hours, you should re-apply again. 

Don't Forget Toner 

The sad truth is, many people don't use toner - but they would if they knew how much it could change their skin! Toner is fantastic for reducing pore size. With how much you sweat during the summer, all the products you're applying, and time spent under the sun, your pores need some profound love. Virtually every skincare line offers one or more toners. If you already have a brand you love and work well with your skin type, it's best to start with something familiar. 

Eat Fresh & Local 

Our body's largest organ is our skin, so it makes sense that your skin health is a strong indicator of your overall health. They say you are what you eat, so make sure you keep your skin healthy by eating healthy. Thankfully, all the delicious fruits and vegetables local to your area are in season and easily accessible during the summer. Enjoy a lazy weekend morning at your local farmer's market and stock up on fresh, seasonal produce to eat throughout the week. Additionally, you could start your garden and grow your own - it doesn't get any fresher than that! Don't forget to stay adequately hydrated while eating all this healthy food. While getting your recommended eight glasses a day is essential, you should drink even more if you're spending significant time under the sun. 

Many people's favorite time of year is summer. Flowers bloom, vacations are on the books, and laying poolside in your new bikini is almost daily. Ensure you're honoring your skin this summer by implementing the ways mentioned earlier to upgrade and update your skin routine. Enjoy the weather, beautiful!