Congratulations! You have survived the freezing temperatures, the snow, and the rain of the winter and spring seasons. Now it’s time to enjoy summer and the warmth and sunshine it brings. Everyone wants to kick back, relax and enjoy the summer, but it’s not the time to slack on your skincare routine.

The UV rays that the sun brings not only causes sunburn, but can accelerate the common signs of aging such as wrinkles, sun spots, sagging skin and fine lines. Extra shine and oil can also appear during summer months because of the humidity and heat.

In addition to your regular skincare routine, it’s important to focus on heat and sun protection. Here are our top summer skin tips for keeping your skin healthy during the summer:

1. Apply (and reapply) Sunscreen. SPF is your best friend if you want to keep your skin supple. You can’t just apply and forget, you need to apply enough and frequently – every two hours – more often if you are swimming. How much is enough? Figure a teaspoon for the face and a “shot glass full” for the body.  Don’t forget your lips and your scalp! Yes, your lips need sunscreen too. Keep them smooth and moist by using lip balm with SPF 15 or higher.  The hair on your head offers some shade from the sun, but the skin along your hairline can easily get burned.  Use sunscreen spray or wear a hat to protect your head.  A wide brim not will not only protect your head, but it will also offer additional protection to your face from the sun.
2. Drink Your Water. Summer temperatures speed up dehydration, which can lead to headaches and other issues. Drinking water – 64 ounces a day – helps maintain healthy skin and assists in detoxification. Can’t stand plain water? Flavor your water with fresh fruit.
3. Remove Dead Skin with Exfoliation. By exfoliating, you prevent congestion and improve skin’s hydration. But go easy – most beaded exfoliating products are too harsh and can cause microscopic tears in the skin. This can lead to inflammation, irritation and redness. It’s best to exfoliate with natural ingredients such as baking soda, sugar, coffee etc. Do so in the mornings, using a scrub on dry skin before you shower.
4. Change Up Your Showers. Turn down the temperature and shorten them up. Hot showers contribute to drier skin.  After your showers, don’t dry off all the water right away.  Then seal in your hydrated skin with body cream – preferably one with SPF in it – while your skin is still slightly damp.

Bring these summer skin tips into your daily routine. Taking care of your skin during the hot summer months will create beautiful, glowing skin all season long.  Enjoy your summer like you never have before!