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Wear sunscreen daily -

If you do nothing else for your skin this summer, wear sunscreen that offers at least SPF 30. Each day, you should apply a half teaspoon of sunscreen to your face and neck. 

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Remember to reapply sunscreen -

Unfortunately, the effectiveness of sunscreen decreases over time. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or sooner if you're swimming or sweating.

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Apply a lightweight moisturizer -

While you may not experience dry skin in the summer, you still need to moisturize because excessive heat can be dehydrating. For best results, use a lightweight moisturizer

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Moisturizer for dry skin -

If you have dry skin, you may be hesitant to ditch your heavy-duty cream. Fortunately, a gel-based moisturizer with ceramides or hyaluronic acid will be just as effective.  

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Moisturizer for oily skin -

Those with oily skin should look for a water-based lotion to keep their complexion refreshed without the extra grease. 

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Use a lips balm -

In summer even your lips need protection from the sun, so it's important to use a lip balm that contains SPF 30 or higher.

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Wash your face, but not constantly -

When it's hot, you may feel the need to wash your face or shower more often. However, your body has natural moisturizing factors that hold water in the skin, so when you wash those away, the top layer of the skin can become dehydrated. Instead, rinse your face only twice per day. 

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Use a foam-based cleanser -

When you do wash your face, use a foam-based cleanser with lukewarm water. Foam-based cleansers are gentler and lighter than oil and cream-based cleansers, but still successfully eliminate the dirt and grime from your skin. 

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Exfoliate in moderation -

Increased sweating and sunscreen use can wreak havoc on your skin. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and allows your skin to absorb products better. However, be cautious during summer, as over-exfoliation can leave your skin vulnerable to sun damage. Exfoliate once or twice per week, but never on sunburned skin.

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Leave the heavy oils behind for a while -

While facial oils can be a lifesaver in colder months, they'll feel heavy and greasy on the skin during summer. 

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Opt for non-comedogenic products -

Non-comedogenic products are designed to avoid blocking pores, plus they have a light, water-based formula. Non-comedogenic products typically contain ingredients like niacinamide, glycerine, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. 

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Use antioxidants -

Often coming in a topical serum, antioxidants like vitamin C neutralize free radicals created by UV light. They can help prevent and improve detrimental effects of the sun, such as hyperpigmentation and fine lines. However, they don't replace the need for sunscreen. 

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Revitalize your skin once a week -

Revitalizing masks can help restore skin balance, bring extra moisture, and enhance skin elasticity. Your skin barrier can weaken due to excessive sun exposure, so boosting its recovery by using a mask once a week will improve your skin defenses, texture, and appearance.

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Avoid alcohol-based products -

During summer, when the heat can dehydrate your skin, it's best to steer clear of products containing high concentrations of alcohol, as it strips the skin of its natural oils. 

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Be mindful of acidic skincare ingredients -

Certain skincare ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, causing an increased risk of sunburn and skin damage. Ingredients like retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and certain essential oils, such as bergamot or lemon, should be avoided. 

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Go lighter on the makeup -

On warmer days, wearing a ton of makeup can feel like an unnecessary extra layer. And, if you sweat, your makeup will come off more easily. Give your skin a break and keep makeup to a minimum. 

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Use makeup with SPF -

Caking on sunscreen over your impeccably-applied makeup doesn't sound so nice. But, if you're attending an outdoor wedding or having a long alfresco lunch, you're still going to need protection. Therefore, pick makeup with SPF or a tinted moisturizer with SPF.

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Self-tan for a healthy glow -

Although a tan isn't painful, it's still technically sun damage. Instead, get a sun-kissed look by using a self-tanner. 

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Soothe and refresh with mists -

Use a refreshing facial mist to combat the heat and instantly rejuvenate your skin. Look for mists that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, which have a cooling effect and help calm any redness or irritation.

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Check your moles -

Once a year, especially if you're often out in the sun, visit a dermatologist and get a full-body exam. Your doctor will examine your moles and marks and see how they evolve over time, so you'll know how careful you should be with sun exposure.

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Take cool showers -

Hot showers can dry your skin, so it's always better to use warm or cool water when showering. Besides, cool water is also better for blood flow and skin microcirculation.

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Wear sun-protective clothing -

To help protect your skin from the sun, wear lightweight clothes, including long-sleeved shirts and pants. When selecting clothing, avoid fabrics with a loose or open weave, such as lace.

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Wear a hat -

Even with a full head of hair, your scalp still needs protection from the sun. Go for a wide-brimmed hat that properly covers your face and neck. 

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Stay in the shade -

If you spend a day on the beach, bring an umbrella or seek shelter. Sun has some important health benefits, but spending hours under it is dangerous. 

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H20 -

Ensure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Hydrated skin is healthy skin, so make it a habit to sip on water regularly.

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Hydrating foods -

Incorporate hydrating foods into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, and leafy greens, to boost your skin's hydration from within. 

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Reduce time in tight-fitting or sweaty clothing -

If you're prone to rashes, acne, or other skin conditions during the summer, then you'll want to reduce the amount of time you spend in tight-fitting clothing, such as exercise clothes. These types of clothes trap sweat against the skin and can cause irritation and breakouts. Loose-fitting cotton clothing is your best bet in summer.  

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Avoid touching your face -

It's recommended by dermatologists to avoid touching your face as much as possible, unless it's with clean hands to apply products. Any dirt, germs, or oil you have on your hands gets on your skin, and picking pimples will move those germs directly into the deeper layers of your skin. 

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Soothe over-exposed skin -

Despite our best efforts, sunburn happens. Make sure to apply cooling balms generously over-exposed skin, preferably at the first sight of a pink glow.

Sources: (Healthline) (Coming Home) (Wishtrend) 

See also: Ultimate remedies to instantly relieve sunburn

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