Summer is fun, until it isn’t. The hot summer months can bring a slew of skin issues, including acne, oily skin, dehydration, sun damage, and other skin concerns. It’s important to tweak your regimen to protect and nourish your complexion during the warmer months and beyond. If that’s your goal, this guide can help.
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Skincare Tips for Oily Skin
Oil supports skin health, but too much isn’t good. Oily skin can become even oilier in the summer months, making your skin feel even greasier. This extra oil, along with sweat and dirt, can also clog pores and cause more breakouts. Here’s what you can do:
1. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer.
Even though your skin produces more oil in the summer, it’s still important to moisturize. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that hydrates without clogging pores. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture without adding extra oil.
2. Use a gel-based cleanser.
Switch to a gel-based cleanser that can effectively remove excess oil and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. Cleansing twice a day, especially at night, can help keep your skin clear and fresh.
3. Incorporate salicylic acid.
Salicylic acid is a powerful ingredient for controlling oil and preventing breakouts. Incorporate a gentle salicylic acid-based toner or serum into your routine to keep your pores clean and reduce the likelihood of acne.
4. Apply a mattifying sunscreen.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable in any skincare routine, especially in the summer. Choose a mattifying, broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This will protect your skin from harmful UV rays while controlling shine.
5. Carry blotting papers with you wherever you go.
Keep blotting papers handy to manage excess oil throughout the day. These can help reduce shine without disturbing your makeup or skincare products.
Skincare Tips for Dry Skin
Summer can make dry skin worse because sweating and sun exposure dry it out even more. The skin can also become more sensitive to wind, chlorine, and certain sunscreens or insect repellents. To take care of dry skin in summer, here’s what our dermatologists at Team Dermatology recommend:
1. Opt for a hydrating cleanser.
Dry skin needs gentle cleansing to avoid stripping away natural oils. Choose a hydrating cleanser that adds moisture while cleaning your skin. Ingredients like glycerin and ceramides are excellent for maintaining hydration.
2. Layer your moisturizers.
In the summer, switch to lighter moisturizers but layer them to ensure your skin stays hydrated. Start with a hydrating serum, followed by a lightweight moisturizer, and finish with a sunscreen that also has moisturizing properties.
3. Incorporate a hydrating serum.
A hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or vitamin E can give your skin an extra boost of moisture. Apply it before your moisturizer to lock in hydration.
4. Use a humidifier.
Running a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the air, which helps keep your skin hydrated. This is especially beneficial if you spend a lot of time in air-conditioned environments that can dry out your skin.
5. Stay hydrated.
Drinking plenty of water is crucial for maintaining skin hydration from the inside out. Men should aim for about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids daily, while women should target around 11.5 cups (2.7 liters).
5 Best Treatments for Summer-Ready Skin
Now is the perfect time to refresh your skincare routine before welcoming the summer months. As temperatures rise and sun exposure increases, your skin needs extra care. Here are the five best facial treatments to refresh your skin and keep it glowing all season long:
1. Microneedling
Microneedling is a fantastic treatment to try if you’re looking for something minimally invasive. It involves using fine needles to create tiny micro-injuries on your skin, which might sound a bit intense, but it’s actually great for you.
This process stimulates collagen production, which helps improve your skin’s texture and reduces scars, fine lines, and enlarged pores. Plus, it makes your skincare products work even better because your skin absorbs them more effectively. It’s an excellent option for summer when your skin could use that extra boost.
Benefits:
- Boosts collagen production
- Improves skin texture
- Enhances product absorption
Considerations:
- Minimal downtime
- Use sunscreen post-treatment to protect your skin
2. Gentle Peels
A gentle chemical peel is a great way to refresh your skin. It works by removing dead cells and promoting new cell growth. Unlike deeper peels which can be harsh and require a lot of downtime, gentle peels use mild acids like lactic or glycolic acid.
These treatments can brighten your complexion, reduce dark spots, and smooth out rough patches. It’s a simple way to give your skin a fresh, radiant look.
Benefits:
- Exfoliates and brightens skin
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Minimal downtime
Considerations:
- Avoid sun exposure immediately after treatment
- Use a high-SPF sunscreen to protect new skin
3. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Filler
Everyone wants plump skin and HA fillers are fantastic for adding volume and hydration to your skin. HA is actually a natural substance in your body that helps retain moisture. When used as a filler, it can plump up areas that have lost volume due to aging or dehydration. This treatment is perfect for giving your skin a youthful, dewy glow.
Benefits:
- Adds volume and hydration
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines
- Immediate results
Considerations:
- Results are temporary (6-12 months)
- Mild swelling or bruising post-treatment
4. Botox
Of course, we won’t forget everyone’s favorite anti-wrinkle injection! Botox is popular for smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, especially on the forehead and around the eyes. It’s quick and has minimal downtime, making it perfect for a summer refresh.
Benefits:
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Quick procedure with immediate results
- Minimal downtime
Considerations:
- Effects last 3-4 months
- Requires maintenance for continued results
- If you want to try other neurotoxin injections, ask your dermatologist about Dysport, Jeaveau, and Xeomin.
5. Laser Facial
Laser facials use focused light to address a variety of skin issues, like hyperpigmentation and acne scars. These treatments can boost collagen production, improve your skin tone, and give you a smoother texture.
Benefits:
- Treats a variety of skin concerns
- Stimulates collagen production
- Improves skin tone and texture
Considerations:
- Multiple sessions may be required
- Use sunscreen post-treatment to protect your skin
Is Your Skin Ready for the Summer?
Spring is the best time for skin treatments because the mild weather helps your skin recover well. It also allows enough healing time before summer, so your skin looks great for beach days and events.
If you’re looking for a dermatologist in Houston, TX, consider booking a consultation at Team Dermatology to get a personalized summer skincare plan that addresses your unique needs. We serve patients in and around Memorial and Sugar Land, Texas. Call us to book your appointment today.
