Summer is here, and we all want to look and feel our best. Feeling confident in your skin allows you to enjoy every trip to the pool or beach without restraint. You can also return home knowing that your skin won’t be damaged despite the extra hours in the sun.
To get your skin ready for summer fun you need to start now. The right treatments and care will prepare your skin for everything from salty ocean waves to long hours tanning poolside. Here are some things you can do to get your skin ready for summer:
1. Get Treatment for Acne
One of the clearest signs of skin problems is acne. This occurs when the pores of your skin get plugged by dirt, oil, hair, or dead skin cells. Many people seek treatment for serious acne to get rid of the red bumps commonly associated with the condition.
Many forms of acne treatment make your skin more photosensitive. This means that prolonged exposure to sunlight can do a lot more damage to your skin than it would normally. Acne medication will help clear up your skin, but you should be extra scrupulous when it comes to sun protection.
When it comes to acne medication, it’s important to get a prescription that fits your particular needs. Consulting with a health care provider will give you guidance and direction for your skin care. There are many options available for online consultations through organizations that enable telehealth solutions. They can even send a prescription right to your door.
2. Drink Lots of Water
It’s no secret that summer is full of hot weather and high temperatures. You’ve likely been told on numerous occasions to drink plenty of water if you plan on spending time outside. Staying hydrated lowers your risk for heat exhaustion or heat stroke. On top of that, drinking water helps your skin.
Hydration keeps your skin elastic and promotes blood circulation. It also replenishes the fluids you lose through sweat when trying to beat the heat. It’s not enough to just drink a lot of water when you’re outside, though. Starting early ensures your body is hydrated before you go out in the sun. Subsequent drinking throughout the day will keep you fresh and cool.
Staying hydrated is a habit. During the winter months, you might not feel as thirsty or drink water as often due to colder temperatures. Regardless, you should make sure you’re properly hydrated no matter what time of year it is. Consistent hydration will be better for your skin than last-minute guzzling before a beach trip.
3. Exfoliate Year-Round
Exfoliation removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells from your body. If you sweat a lot during the summer, your skin and pores can get clogged, causing redness, dryness, and acne. Just like acne treatments clear up your skin, a good exfoliation routine helps your skin be at its best.
Most exfoliating regimens involve a light scrub in the bath or shower with a rough sponge or brush. An exfoliation product opens up your pores and removes dirt. Be careful not to scrub too vigorously, as this only damages the skin.
As you master your exfoliation routine, your skin will become accustomed to a good care ritual. Keep in mind that trying to exfoliate for the first time during the peak of summer might be more difficult. Your skin has already endured a lot, and the scrubbing could just be rough on sunburns and tender skin.
4. Master Your Shaving Routine
Whether it’s your face, armpits, legs, or big toes, your shaving routine leading up to summer is crucial. A poor shaving routine will leave your skin irritated. Add the sun, summer breeze, ocean salt, and chlorine, and a bad shave could result in an unpleasant skin day.
Take the necessary steps to avoid razor burn or ingrown hairs. These are the two most common downsides to shaving that are exacerbated by the summer sun. Find a good shaving cream or oil and stay up to date on the razors you use. A dull blade will often do more harm than good.
There are several other tips that might come in handy. Only shave after you’ve already washed your body. Don’t keep your razor in the shower so it can dry properly. Last but not least; shave with the grain, not against it.
5. Remember Your Scalp
While you’re probably focusing mostly on the skin of your face, don’t forget the skin on top of your head. Even if your face is clean and clear, you’ll still feel suboptimal if your scalp is dry and itchy. This can just as easily ruin a day of summer fun.
Scalp health is important for both your overall skin quality as well as your hair. Healthy hair is another summer must, and a dry or irritated scalp will prevent your hair follicles from optimal growth. Dandruff can also rain on your parade if you don’t make your scalp a priority.
As you wash your hair, give careful attention to your scalp using your fingertips while avoiding scratching. A regular wash plus good hydration will often do the trick. If your hair has a part where a sunburn might develop, cover it properly when out in the sun.
When your skin feels good, you’ll feel good. If you prepare your skin now, you’ll enjoy the tan without feeling dried out or burnt to a crisp.
