With June coming to an end and July creeping around the corner, it is pretty obvious that summer is in full effect! With hopeful temperatures of above 80 degrees and UV Indexes higher than 5, it is assumed that everyone’s mission will be to spend time outside soaking up the sun. However, amidst days spent at the beach and taking long swims, sun, sand, and poolside fun can negatively affect your skin. Here are 5 ways that you can keep your skin healthy this summer and still enjoy partaking in the activities that you love!
1. Take Cold Showers
Of course everyone loves the feeling of stepping into a hot shower, but did you know that turning down the temperature while bathing actually does wonders for your skin? Taking really hot showers, especially in the summer, can often dry out the skin and strip it of its essential nutrients. A “cooler” shower is calming, will help with hydration, and even heel breakouts due to sweat. Do this two to three times a week and you will surely see a huge improvement in your skin!
2. Drink Plenty of Water
There are countless benefits that drinking water has on the body. Along with aiding in digestion and circulation, the right consumption of water daily can keep your skin looking healthier than ever! It is recommended that the average person should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day (better known as the 8×8 rule). By hydrating your body from the inside out, you can achieve a clearer and brighter glow to your skin. So if you simply replace those summer cocktails with water, you’ll be amazed by the outcome.
3. Cleanse Before Bed
Everyone has those nights where they’re too exhausted to take off their makeup, and to most people, it’s no big deal. Of course waking up with yesterday’s foundation on is something that we have all fallen victim to once or twice, but making a habit of it can really damage your skin. While your mind takes a rest, your body is working hard to replenish the skin’s imperfections. If your makeup gets in the way of this process, it can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and dull skin. Try using a makeup remover wipe like Neutrogena’s Cleansing Towelettes to remove all traces of dirt, oil, and makeup. Then, follow up with a facial cleanser of your choice to really clear out those pores. By cleansing before bed, your skin will be able to breathe and you will wake up each morning to the reflection of a healthy, glowing complexion!
4. Exfoliate
Help your body get rid of dead skin cells for smoother and softer skin by exfoliating two to three times a week! Most people skip this step in their skin care regimen simply because they don’t find it essential or they aren’t aware of the benefits. When your pores get clogged up, the dead cells and oils from your skin often get trapped beneath the surface. Developing a routine for exfoliating will improve your skins texture, help prevent breakouts, and even out your skin tone. Aveeno’s Clear Complexion Daily Cleansing Pad’s are great to use as a gentle exfoliate. So, as they say, exfoliating every other day will keep the pimples away!
5. Moisturize
This last (but definitely not least) step for keeping your skin healthy involves applying a daily moisturizer. It is crucial to moisturize multiple times everyday to your face and body for softer, more elastic, younger looking skin. Try moisturizing the body with a calming lotion after the shower to lock in those nutrients, keeping the skin from feeling dry. Face moisturizers are an essential part of starting and ending everyday. Before heading outside, make sure you smooth on a moisturizer that contains SPF 15 sunscreen or higher to keep your skin protected all day long. Well, what are you waiting for? Go forth and moisturize!