Summer has finally arrived. And if you're like me, you can't wait to hit the beach or pool. But what I hear time and again are people's goals to get a tan, improve their color, and soak up as many rays as possible while enjoying the water. All those things involve an unhealthy amount of sun exposure—and often dangerous beach- and poolside skin routines.
I understand the desire to have that perfect color (trust me, I do!), but risking your health isn't the way to go. And the issue is that regular summer skincare routines don't always work when you add saltwater or chlorine into the mix.
If you're prepping to go to the beach or visit your community pool this summer, check out this list of essential skincare tips before walking out the door.
I can never say this enough, but sun protection is a must—especially at the pool or beach. Not only are you trying to combat UV rays from the sun, but you also need to protect yourself from the reflections of the water and sand. About 10% of UV rays are reflected from the water and 15% from the sand. This makes sun protection all the more critical when at the pool or beach.
So start early. Apply the first layer of sunscreen before you leave the house. I recommend SPF of at least 50 with UVA and UVB protection, such as Dr. Esthé Sun Protection Mild SPF 50.
It's easy to forget to apply sunscreen to areas usually covered by clothes—like your back, midriff, or legs. So make sure you put that first layer (and all subsequent layers) on all skin that will be exposed to the sun. And yes, that means you need to cover areas where you would like a nice tan. In fact, you should especially protect those areas from the sun to avoid a nasty burn.
For head-to-toe SPF, apply and tote a sunscreen appropriate for both face and body, like PLLA All Mineral Multi-Protection Face & Body Sunscreen. This antioxidant-enriched sunscreen forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface and is suitable for all skin types.
People often forget about their lips when lathering up with sunscreen. If you're at the beach, the wind from the waves can exfoliate the sensitive skin on your lips and make them more susceptible to burning.
So take sufficient precautions by applying an SPF lip balm well before getting in the water.
In the summer, think of layering hydration versus layering clothing. The more hydrated your skin is, the fewer adverse effects you'll experience from a day at the pool or beach.
Layer in order of viscosity: serums, then moisturizer, then sunblock. Prepping your face with barrier cream is the best way to protect your skin from the irritating chlorine in pools. Dr. Esthé Dual Barrier Cream aids the skin by maintaining moisture longer and preventing trans-epidermal water loss. Apply this as your first moisturizer after a hyaluronic acid serum—which will bind 1000 times its weight in water to your skin—and before your SPF.
Keep in mind that not all pools allow moisturizer or skincare products since they can affect the chemicals in the water. Check with your pool's regulations before getting in. And if they don't allow moisturizer, skip to the tips below for post-swim care!
Avoid skincare products that increase photosensitivity, such as retinol and salicylic acid, before a day at the pool or beach. Also, be extra cautious if you're on any antibiotics, as this increases your risk of sunburn and skin damage.
Reapply SPF every two hours when swimming. Even water-resistant sunscreen washes off within 40-80 minutes, so be diligent about reapplying sunscreen. Remember, the sun is stronger and out longer in the summer. And at the pool or beach, you're also dealing with the reflection.
Reapply easily with compact products such as Sun Cushion SPF 50. This creamy, broad-spectrum formula provides a natural glow throughout the day without feeling heavy or sticky on your face. It automatically adjusts to skin color within minutes of application and can be reapplied throughout the day. It's even great for men!
And don't forget your lips! Reapply your SPF lip balm every time you put on another layer of sunscreen.
Even though you're in the water, the saltwater and chlorine actually dehydrate and irritate your skin. They also strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritant contact dermatitis (skin that is itchy, dry, and red).
While you don't need to apply moisturizer every time you take a break (especially if your pool doesn't allow it), you need to take care of your skin from the inside out. Make sure to drink plenty of water to keep your entire body hydrated. You can also fill up on water-rich foods, like watermelon and celery. Your skin will thank you later!
I recommend rinsing off as soon as you get out of the water. Putting more water on your skin after hours of swimming may seem silly, but it's essential to remove sand, chlorine, and salt. The longer these irritants are on your skin, the more dryness they cause. As you rinse off, cleanse your skin thoroughly with a creamy, hydrating facial cleanser and body wash.
When you get home, rinse off again to remove sunblock containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Instead of air drying, pick up a cotton towel and thoroughly dry your skin. Even though it might be tempting to let the sun and heat dry you off, that can actually dehydrate your skin even more.
Immediately rehydrate your skin with a thick ointment-like moisturizer rich in antioxidants like aloe vera and vitamin C following a long day in the sun. My go-to is CBE Botanicals Conducting Gel & Mask, which is ultra-soothing, especially for sunburnt skin.
Summer can be a dangerous time for your skin—but that doesn't mean you have to stay away from the pool and beach! With these pro tips, you can keep your skin healthy while also enjoying the summer months to the max.
Want to get more support with your skincare journey? Join me in the Christine Byer Beauty Club. I offer a 14-Day FREE preview with full access to everything in the Club. Get personalized support for your questions and access savings and the opportunity to win a FREE consultation. If you don't find value in your membership, cancel within 14 days at no charge.
