While you might be tempted to stick to your favorite skincare products year-round (and follow the same beauty wellness routine), the truth is, your skin’s needs change according to the seasons and it’s important to listen to your skin’s cues and make appropriate adjustments to keep your skin in the best condition, possible.
To get your skin summer ready – the biggest factor to consider is your level of sun exposure and how to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Because let’s face it, while we all love a little time outdoors “soaking up the sun”, it’s not the best idea for your skin long term.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, up to 90% of visible skin aging is due to sun damage and photoaging which is the direct result of cumulative sun damage you’ve been exposed to throughout your life. By protecting your skin from UV rays, you can not only protect yourself from skin cancer, but also help to prevent wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of aging.
A few more reasons why you need to change up your summer beauty wellness routine:
- Increased sun exposure
In summer, the sun's intensity is higher which can lead to an increased risk of sunburn, UV damage, and photoaging. So, if you want to save your skin and look younger for longer, it’s crucial to prioritize sun protection.
- Higher humidity levels
Many regions experience higher humidity during the summer months. The elevated moisture in the air can affect your skin's hydration levels. In some cases, increased humidity can lead to excess oil production and clogged pores, potentially causing breakouts or exacerbating existing skin conditions like rosacea.
- Sweating and higher oil production
When the weather gets warmer, our bodies tend to sweat more, and that can sometimes lead to clogged pores and skin congestion. To add to that, your skin's natural oil production can go into overdrive in response to the heat and humidity. If you have oily or combination skin, you may need to make some tweaks to your skincare routine to prevent excessive oiliness and keep your pores happy and clear.
- Summer living
Summer brings exposure to various environmental factors such as chlorine from swimming pools, saltwater from the ocean, and increased pollution levels due to outdoor activities and travel. These factors can have a drying or irritating effect on the skin, requiring additional care and protection.
How to protect your skin from the sun
Remember, sunscreen is not just for sunny days. Even on cloudy or overcast days, harmful UV rays can still penetrate the clouds and cause skin damage. It's important to wear sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather.
While SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, it doesn't necessarily protect against UVA rays. Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens that shield against both UVA and UVB rays to ensure you’re getting the most comprehensive sun protection.
When applying sunscreen, don't forget about your lips, eyelids (yes, your eyelids – as sun-related skin cancers do occur around the delicate eye area), hands and ears! Invest in a lip balm with SPF and consider wearing sunglasses that provide UV protection to safeguard these sensitive areas. A wide-brimmed hat that covers your neck and ears is also a good choice.
Boost your skin’s defences from within
Did you know that certain antioxidants such as quercetin, vitamin C, vitamin E and polyphenols like resveratrol can help to protect your skin from damaging free radicals generated by sun exposure? These antioxidants work from within the deeper layers of your skin to enhance its natural defences against UV damage. The good news is that our ageless skin VITAMINS are packed with all these and more to give your skin what it needs to reduce inflammation and fight free radical damage.
Another way to keep your skin strong and supple throughout the summer months is to boost collagen production. Why? Well, simply put - collagen is a protein that provides structural support to the skin, keeping it firm and elastic. Supplements or drink mixes like our beauty infused COLLAGEN contains hydrolyzed collagen (which is easily recognized and absorbed by the body), plus ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to support collagen synthesis and help maintain skin elasticity, thus reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, whilst keeping the skin smooth and hydrated. It’s a win-win!
Combat inflammation
Sun exposure and environmental factors can trigger inflammation in the skin, resulting in redness, irritation, and sunburn. But the good news is that supplements containing ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, a variety of superfoods like berries, pomegranate extract and kelp, plus key amino acids will help to improve blood flow and speed up tissue repair, thus helping to calm and soothe the skin.
ALSO SEE: An in-depth look at inflammation and how to treat it.
Focus on proper hydration
Want to know what your skin loves most in summer? Water! Heat and sun exposure can dehydrate the skin, leading to dryness and dullness. Drinking an adequate amount of water is crucial for maintaining healthy and glowing skin. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep your skin hydrated and supple. Read more about the benefits of drinking water here.
Supplements that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which is what you’ll find in our beauty infused COLLAGEN can help to boost the skin's moisture levels and improve hydration from the inside out.
Tweak your skincare regime
If you skip your morning or night cleanse in winter, think again – when it comes to summer. Cleanse your skin twice a day to remove dirt, oil, and impurities that can accumulate throughout the day. Use a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type to avoid stripping away natural oils.
Hydration is key, however anything too thick and heavy might cause skin breakouts in summer. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to replenish your skin's moisture barrier and prevent dryness. Look for a product with added antioxidants to protect against environmental damage.
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and promotes a smoother complexion. Incorporate a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant into your skincare routine, focusing on areas prone to dryness or roughness. However, if you have particularly sensitive skin, speak to a skincare practitioner before using an exfoliator.
Build a solid beauty wellness routine
Just like you never forget to brush your teeth or have a bath, be sure to nourish your skin from the inside with the right supplement regime. It’s also important to maintain a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants. Incorporate foods containing essential fatty acids, such as omega-3, found in fish, nuts, and seeds, to promote skin health. Additionally, get regular exercise, manage stress levels, and prioritize quality sleep to support overall skin vitality.
FIND OUT: Why your skin and hair need a beauty wellness routine