Longer, warmer days are a welcome change from the cold of winter, but with summer weather come high humidity levels, frequent sun exposure and outdoor activities that increase your risk of skin cancer and lead to dry and irritated skin. Acne, dry skin and sunburn are common summer skin conditions you can easily prevent with a bit of extra time and effort during your normal skin care routine.
Step 1
Wash your skin twice daily (more often if you become sweaty) with a mild soap and warm water to remove perspiration and prevent body odor and acne breakouts. Avoid bathing in very hot water, as this will increase dryness and skin irritation, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.
Step 2
Exfoliate with a fine-grained exfoliant or loofah sponge two to three times each week to remove dead skin cells, prevent clogged pores and reduce the likelihood of ingrown hairs caused by frequent summer shaving.
Step 3
Use cosmetics labeled as noncomedogenic to prevent clogged pores and acne, a problem that is more common during the summer due to increased oil production by the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends removing makeup and skin care products before going to bed.
Step 4
Wear sunscreen anytime you step outside, to prevent sunburn and reduce your risk of premature aging and skin cancer. Applying sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and choosing sun protective clothing will further reduce your risk of sunburn, according to the Mayo Clinic. Whenever possible, avoiding spending time outdoors during the peak sun hours of between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Step 5
Prevent peeling from sunburn by taking a cool shower as soon as you come indoors and then applying aloe vera or a moisturizing lotion to burned skin. The Mayo Clinic recommends taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, immediately following prolonged sun exposure to reduce the pain and inflammation of sunburn.
Step 6
Keep your skin moist by rinsing chlorine and saltwater off your skin after swimming, using a daily moisturizing ointment and wearing natural fabrics to encourage air circulation against your skin.
Step 7
Change wet clothes promptly and wear an aluminum-based antiperspirant to prevent skin irritation and control sweating during hot summer months. The Merck Manual warns that wearing sweaty clothing also increases the risk of developing prickly heat, an itchy rash caused by trapped sweat.
Things You'll Need
- Exfoliant
- Sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Aloe vera
- Moisturizer
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
- Aluminum-based antiperspirant
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