The first thing every person should do in the summer is wear sunscreen. Not only does it prevent sunburns, but over time minimizes aging and skin cancer risk. If you suffer from oily skin, purchase sunscreens that say “oil free” on the packaging so you get the protection without the breakouts. Wear a minimum of SPF 15 for every-day wear, but for prolonged exposure apply SPF 30. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes prior to going outdoors. This allows it to be fully absorbed into the skin so it can’t be sweated off.
Another great way to get your skin summer ready is using lighter foundation that allows skin to breathe. Heavy liquid foundations can clog pores and trap in sweat. If you use a foundation, use water-based foundation that is sheer and can be built for coverage. It’s great for sensitive skin types.
To keep foundations looking fresh use a primer. A primer is a lotion, or serum that goes on before foundation to help minimize pores and create a barrier for makeup. If you have normal or dry skin, you can use a “luminizing” primer that will make skin look healthy and dewy without being oily. If you have oily skin pick up a mattifying primer that will control shin and keep makeup on all day.
To help make your skin even more beautiful, exfoliate. Pores become slightly larger and noticeable in the summer because of humidity. However, facial skin is gentle so exfoliate once a week to gently remove debris and dead skin cells. Use a chemical exfoliator instead of products using granules. Because the irregular shape of the granules, it can cause micro-tears that can cause irritation and infection.
The one skincare tip that is most often forgotten is cleaning cosmetics brushes. This becomes essential when switching out fall/winter cosmetics to your spring/summer regimen. Ideally, makeup brushes should be cleansed every two weeks. Washing brushes ensures that makeup used in winter isn’t mixed or transferred when applying makeup in warmer weather. Also, brush cleaning rids the buildup of bacteria and softens the brush to minimize irritation upon application. Use a designated brush cleaner or baby shampoo to wash makeup brushes.
Even though it’s summer that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be moisturizing. Your skin still needs nurturing and pampering during the summer season. Switch out thick or heavy creams and look for lightweight and “oil-free” moisturizers that help protect your skin, but won’t make you shiny.
Just another quick reminder for patients using retinols, change to a nighttime regimen. Retinols can make your skin extremely sensitive to sunlight and prolonged sun exposure could cause major irritation.
If you have any questions and want a personalized skin care routine, we are here for you. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.
Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.
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