Summer Skincare Essentials: 5 Easy Tips
The sun is out in full force this summer. Heat waves, temperatures rising and 100 degree days can take a toll on our skin. If you haven’t switched up your skincare products with the weather, here are 5 easy tips to get started!
Tip #1: Lighten up
You might want to transition from that heavy moisturizer for colder months into a lighter, quicker absorbing moisturizer. Still providing hydrated, happy skin but with a lightweight feel.
Moisturizers with antioxidants are important to fight sun damage and keep skin healthy- especially in the summer when you’re exposed for longer amounts of time. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals to stop sun damage in its tracks and defend your skin barrier.
We recommend our Morning Dew for a lightweight, fast absorbing moisturizer that is rich in powerful antioxidants to stimulate collagen production, hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier.
Tip #2: Hydration is key
Skin is easily dehydrated by the sun, chlorine, salt water, dry air.. you know, everything that comes with summer. Boost moisture levels by packing a post sun relief product to use regularly.
Look for something hydrating like our After Sun Warrior that’s packed with cooling and soothing ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber hydrosol. To provide quick, lightweight relief to dry or sun drenched skin. Aloe not only helps cool already irritated skin, it also attracts and locks in moisture for long lasting hydration.
If you have an aloe plant you can also use gel straight from the leaf to replenish lost nutrients and moisture. Pro tip: be wary of those green colored, chemical filled aloe gels you find at drugstores. Always check ingredient lists.
Tip #3: SPF often
We’re all about soaking up Vitamin D (in moderation) and the benefits that come with it. But, using an SPF when you’ll be exposed for long periods of time is key to keeping skin healthy. We recommend avoiding conventional sunscreens that are full of chemicals and toxins that contribute to hormone imbalances, allergies and sensitivities.
Instead, we reach for a mineral, broad spectrum SPF with non-nano Zinc Oxide as the main active ingredient. Be careful about the “broad spectrum” claims you see in stores. That term is loosely regulated in the US so like everything else, always check the ingredients label. Look for natural, recognizable and non toxic ingredients.
And don’t forget to protect easily forgotten areas like your hands, lips and eye area (wearing sunglasses & hats work wonders). These areas are more sensitive and will show sun damage faster. Including wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
Tip #4: Exfoliate regularly
The heat causes a lot of sweating, which is actually good for the body, but it can clog pores. Extra oiliness and dry, flaky skin buildup leads to congested pores and a duller complexion. Exfoliating at least once a week (you can do 2-3 times a week if your skin is used to it already) sweeps away dead skin cells and helps to unclog pores to reveal smoother and clearer skin underneath.
For your face, avoid scrubs with salt. The particles are too large and sharp causing tiny tears in the skin on areas like your face that are more sensitive. We recommend an AHA chemical peel like our Golden Silk. Or if you’re into the more traditional face masks than our Green Sky clay mask is for you. It sheds dead skin cells and unclogs pores to make room for smoother, clearer skin.
Tip #5: Protect against pests
I don’t have to explain to you how annoying and irritating those pesky bug bites are. And even more harming are those drugstore bug sprays containing DEET. Simply put, DEET is a pesticide linked to migraines, dizziness, trouble concentrating, skin rashes and respiratory issues.
Replace that toxic bug spray for a DEET free, plant based alternative like our Bug Shield. Formulated with natural ingredients like citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus and more that bugs hate the scent of. A safe, yet effective spray that’s not only safe you for, but also for our plants, animals and bees that DEET products are known to harm.
Use these tips this Summer to support naturally glowing, healthy skin. Protecting your skin can be fun- exploring new products and remedies to boost skin barrier health and hydration. Let us know if you have any further questions on Summer skin routines!