- Consistent Sunscreen Application: Never skimp on sunscreen or forget to reapply it regularly, even on cloudy days. This is crucial for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Regular Exfoliation and Cleansing: Maintain a routine that includes regular exfoliation and nighttime cleansing to keep your skin healthy and glowing.
- Adapt Your Skincare Routine: Adjust your skincare routine with the seasons to ensure your skin gets what it needs during different weather conditions.
Everyone wants that perfect summer glow, but in pursuit of radiant skin, we often make a few common mistakes. The good news is that with a few adjustments, you can keep your skin looking fabulous without compromising its health.
As the weather continues to heat up, explore these top seven skincare mistakes people make in the summer, along with the alternative solutions I recommend to achieve a (safe) summertime glow.
Mistake 1: Skimping on Sunscreen
We've all heard the myth that a base tan will protect you from sunburn later on, but that's just not true. Skimping on sunscreen to get that bronze look can seriously damage your skin, as can skipping SPF in hopes of using the sun as a natural acne treatment. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun increase inflammation, cellular damage, and pigmentation.
Solution: Incorporate SPF Into Your Routine
No matter your skin goals, never skip sunscreen. Use an antioxidant-enriched, broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen to reflect harmful UV rays and protect your skin from damage. I recommend the PLLA All Mineral Multi-Protection Face & Body Sunscreen, which shields the skin from UV rays while rejuvenating tired, troublesome skin.
Mistake 2: Forgetting to Reapply SPF
The SPF in your sunscreen is your greatest defense against harmful skin damage and sunburn. However, your morning application cannot protect your skin all day. SPF naturally degrades in the sun, and summertime activities like swimming and sweating will only cause it to wear away faster. That’s why experts recommend you reapply sunscreen every 60 to 90 minutes while you’re in the sun.
Solution: Bring Your Sunscreen On the Go
Ensure you're protected from sunrise to sunset by bringing your sunscreen with you. The convenient compact form of the Sun Cushion SPF 50 is perfect for touch-ups throughout the day, keeping your skin safe and maintaining a natural glow
Mistake 3: Dialing Back on Exfoliation
Summertime means dialing up our daily amount of sun exposure and time outdoors, which means we also need to dial up our amount of regular exfoliation. Unfortunately, most people assume that salty sea spray and sand can do the hard work of exfoliation for them… but that’s far from the truth. Your skin still requires a weekly physical or chemical exfoliator during the summer months!
Solution: Create an Exfoliation Schedule
Create a schedule you can stick to as the summer months go by. The CBE Botanicals Revive Exfoliating Serum is ideal as a once-weekly treatment. The gentle but hardworking CBE Botanicals Enzyme Rescue Multi-Purpose Enzyme Mask is also great for subtle exfoliation two to three times per week. Just remember to exfoliate at night to give your skin some time to repair!
Mistake 4: Skipping a Nighttime Cleanser
By the time you head to bed during the summer, your face likely has several layers of sweat, sunscreen, natural oils, and even pollen and other debris trapped in your pores. Never go to sleep with that gunk on your face! Skipping a nighttime cleanser is an all-too-common skincare mistake that can lead to clogged pores, frequent breakouts, and otherwise dull and lackluster skin.
Solution: Have a Trusted Product on Standby
A nighttime cleanser is a must in the humid summer months — especially if you plan to spend time in the sun! To loosen up dead skin cells and other debris, opt for the deep-cleaning CBE Botanicals Scrub Away the Day Cleanser. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, use a more nourishing cleanser like the Just Say Ahh Revitalizing Cleanser or Just Soothing Creamy Cleanser instead.
Mistake 5: Ignoring a Daily Moisturizer
If you’re anything like me and the thousands of other women trying to achieve their best skin during menopause, you’ve probably noticed that your skin can get pretty dry during the summer months (and all year long, really). Once paired with increased humidity, your skin might look slightly oilier in the summer. But readers be warned: summer is not the time to ignore moisturizer!
Solution: Find a Lightweight Alternative
Though it might seem counterintuitive to increase moisture when your skin is feeling oily, it’s important to realize that stripping your skin of hydration will only force it to produce even more oil. Instead of neglecting moisturizer altogether, find a lightweight alternative for summer. The NeoGenesis Light Moisturizer is formulated for those with oily skin or who live in humid climates!
Mistake 6: Neglecting the Eye Area
Did you know that the skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the other parts of your face? Damage to the sensitive eye area can show up more quickly than your cheeks or jowls. Yet, more often than not, most people neglect to protect the eyelids and under-eye region. If you want to combat pigmentation and fine lines around the eyes, you must protect your skin!
Solution: Invest in UV-Filtering Sunglasses
The most fool-proof method to protect the delicate skin around the eyes is to invest in a pair of sunglasses with UV protection. Remember to wear these sunglasses whenever you’re outside for a prolonged period of time. At nighttime, apply the NeoGenesis Eye Serum to remedy dark circles and puffiness, treat the aging skin around the eyes, and prevent further UV damage from the sun.
Mistake 7: Never Changing Your Routine
Your skincare routine needs to change with the seasons. If you're still using your winter products in the summer, it’s time for an update.
Solution: Adjust Your Routine for Summer
Switch to products suited for summer’s heat and humidity. Look for lighter moisturizers, stronger SPF, and incorporate products that help with oil control and hydration.
Bonus Pro Tip: Avoid Letting Your Products Expire
Many people overlook the expiration dates on their skincare products, but using expired products can lead to reduced efficacy and even skin irritation. Always check the dates and ensure your products are fresh and effective.
FAQs
1. How often should I exfoliate during the summer? You should exfoliate at least once a week with a more intensive treatment and two to three times a week with a gentler option. Be sure to listen to your skin and adjust as needed.
2. Can I use the same moisturizer year-round? No, it’s best to adapt your moisturizer to the season. In the summer, opt for a lighter, more breathable formula to keep your skin hydrated without feeling greasy.
3. What’s the best way to reapply sunscreen over makeup? Use a sunscreen in a powder or spray form to reapply over makeup. Products like the Sun Cushion SPF 50 are great for this purpose, providing easy and mess-free application throughout the day.
Summer skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few mindful changes,you can keep your skin healthy and glowing all season long. Need personalized advice? Schedule a virtual consultation with me! We’ll craft a skincare routine that’s perfect for your unique needs and help you achieve that flawless summer skin. Let's get started!
