The dog days of summer have arrived! With temps reaching 110 degrees, relatively no humidity, increased sun exposure, and submerging our bodies in pool chemicals come a whole new set of skincare issues. Acne (face and back), dryness, redness, inflammation, and clogged pores––these are just a few of the top summer skin problems. I'm here to get you through this hot season and provide you with some tips you can use at home every day to keep your skin looking and feeling its best - from head to toe!
First and foremost, SKINCARE DOES NOT STOP AT YOUR NECK!
One of the biggest skincare routine mistakes we make is stopping what we are doing at the neck. I get it, your face is front and center, but skincare is a must for your body, too. Just like you use a cleanser, exfoliator, and moisturizer for your face, you should also adopt a similar skincare routine for your body. The body care line by Tuel provides everything you need!
Tip #2...PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN!
You know what I'm about to say... wear sunscreen! Also, wear a hat as often as possible! And... consider an umbrella. Yes, I'm serious. Not only do umbrellas provide protection from UV rays, but the shade they provide cools the temperature a bit!
I know sunscreen is a touch controversial, and it's a topic I promise to cover in a different article, but for now, apply a moisturizing sunscreen to your face, and any skin that will be exposed to the sun, daily. If you are going to the pool or the beach slather your entire body with sunscreen from head to toe, and reapply every 90 minutes and/or when you get out of the water. The following guide by The Environmental Working Group, https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/ can help you choose a sunscreen that is best for you and your family.
TIP #3... EXFOLIATE!
The main goal of exfoliating is to slough off dead skin cells. As time goes on, sun damage and certain skin issues can make it difficult for the body to naturally shed dead skin cells, leaving our skin looking and feeling dry, flaky, crepey, and dull-looking. Routine exfoliation will not only help buff away dead skin cells, dullness and pore impurities, but will help prevent blackheads, clogged pores, and speed up the skin’s renewal process, as well as increase your skin's ability to absorb serums and moisturizers.
There are two types of exfoliators, mechanical and chemical. Mechanical exfoliators are grainy concoctions that are applied and manipulated around the skin with our hands. Exfoliating gloves and loofas are also considered mechanical exfoliators and should only be used in the body. DO NOT USE THEM ON YOUR FACE PLEASE. Chemical exfoliators are made of various acids and generally work by dissolving surface proteins.
What we exfoliate with, how often we exfoliate, and the technique we use depends on our skin type and is very important in maintaining our skin's integrity and avoiding irritation.
Apricot scrub is great for your heels, knees, and elbows - not for your face. Your face needs an ultra-fine polishing paste for the most effective and safest outcome.
When using a mechanical exfoliant, let the product do the work, not the pressure/strength of your hands.
Sensitive skin is less tolerant of exfoliation, so start with once a week and increase to three times a week from there if your skin allows.
Exfoliate at night, especially in the summer, so you aren’t putting fresh skin out in the sun.
The best advice I can give you is to pay close attention to how your skin responds after exfoliating to determine the best face and body skincare routine.
TIP #4... HYDRATE INSIDE AND OUT! Water is essential to keeping your body hydrated, your metabolism running at peak efficiency, and your digestive tract working smoothly.
How much water should you drink? According to WebMD, aim to drink 1/2 an ounce to 1 full ounce per pound of body weight. For example, If you weigh 150 pounds, you'll need to drink 75 to 150 ounces of water each day. Climate and activity level dictate where you fall in this range. If you live in a hot climate and exercise a lot you'll need to be on the higher end of the range. If you live in a cool climate and lead a sedentary lifestyle, you'll be on the lower end of the scale.
Hydrating your skin from the outside in is a thing! Have you heard of Hyaluronic Acid (HA)? let me tell you a little bit about this amazing substance... HA is produced naturally by our body and is predominantly found in the skin. The main function of HA is to retain moisture and prevent water from evaporating, helping skin tissue to stay plump and moisturized.
To reach optimal levels of hydration, drink your quota of water, apply a Hyaluronic Acid serum to your face (like Hydrate by Tuel), and spritz your body with Triple Splash Hydrating Body Serum (also by Tuel) after you bathe or shower. This combination will not only substantially increase hydration in your skin, but it will also help improve skin firmness and elasticity.
Tip #5... VITAMIN C!
This amazing antioxidant is capable of boosting collagen production; minimizing fine lines, wrinkles, and scars; protecting the skin from sun damage, and helps to fade sun spots and discoloration (a.k.a. hyperpigmentation). It also boosts your immune system!
Vitamin C can be applied topically, via a vitamin C serum, taken by mouth in the form of a supplement, and consumed through the foods we eat. Foods highest in Vitamin C are peppers, strawberries, oranges, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and kiwi fruit. Because Vitamin C in food is easily destroyed by heat, it is best to eat these foods raw.
One final note...
Consistency of care is essential in achieving and maintaining your skin care goals. It takes time, dedication, commitment, and support to achieve any goal. You are not alone in your skin goal journey. I am honored to be here for you every step of the way. Just think of me as a personal trainer for your skin!
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