Summer is here, and it is the season most of us look forward to with sun-filled beach days, pool parties, and long outdoor adventures. Often, while we enjoy sunny warmth and bright days, our delicate skin can respond negatively to too much sun exposure. Summer conditions can be damaging, leading to dryness, irritation, and even premature aging if we don’t take extra care.

Why Does Skin Get Dry in Summer?

Though it might seem counterintuitive, summer can be just as drying as winter. Prolonged sun exposure damages the skin’s natural barrier, leading to increased moisture loss and leaving it feeling tight and rough.

Air conditioning, which offers a welcome escape from the heat, can strip humidity from the air, making our skin even more parched. Swimming in chlorinated pools or salty ocean water also removes natural oils which help keep your skin soft and hydrated.

How to Protect Your Skin This Summer

Moisturize

After cleaning and before applying sunscreen, protect your outer layer of skin with your favorite moisturizer or my favorite, GYG Organic Face Serum with all organic essential oils that brighten, tone, hydrate and protect. You don’t want sunscreen directly on your pores.

Sunscreen

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Sunscreen is essential not only to prevent sunburn but also to protect against long-term damage and dehydration.

Hydrate

Hydration plays a vital role. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within, and opt for a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer or face serum that can help lock in moisture without feeling greasy. After sun exposure or swimming, apply moisturizer or face serum immediately to help restore your skin’s barrier.

Exfoliate

Gentle exfoliation one or two times a week can also help remove dry, dead skin cells and improve absorption of hydrating products. Choose a mild exfoliant to avoid irritating already sensitive summer skin. I put a health pinch of baking soda mixed with a gentle cleanser to remove sunscreen and reveal glowing skin.

Mask

Mask once or twice a week. Facial masks help draw out impurities, dirt, and excess oils from deep within your pores, offering a deeper clean than everyday cleansers, can hydrate, improve texture, and soothes your skin.

• Honey Mask: A very simple mask: just apply honey to soften and moisturize your face.
• Whole Egg: Whip one egg and slather all over your face. Egg proteins significantly contribute to maintaining the elasticity of skin.
• Cucumber: Grate the skin of one cucumber and mix it with plain yogurt. Apply to your face for moisture.

Lips and Eyes

Protect your lips and the delicate skin around your eyes. Use an SPF lip balm, wear sunglasses to shield your eyes and cover your face with a wide-brimmed hat. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing (some have SPF) can also offer additional protection against the sun’s harsh rays.

Foods

Nourish your skin by including water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and leafy greens into your diet to boost hydration and provide essential vitamins and antioxidants.

By prioritizing sun protection and hydration inside and out, you can enjoy the summer while keeping your skin healthy, supple, radiant, and glowing all summer long!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you have a skincare routine for the summer months? What does it look like? Do you use store-bought products or do you go natural/DIY?