When the season of warm summer comes, we cannot help but get the most out of the good weather! We enjoy every activity possible with the sun up — from water sports to exploring nature among many other things.
But before you head out this season, remember that your body needs unparalleled care. Don’t get too caught up filling in your schedule with the fun things that you forget to give attention to your body and skin needs. To help you out, this blog is specially curated to guide you in keeping your skin in tip-top shape.
Common summer skin problems
As the Philippines is in the tropics and constantly experience hot weather, these common summer skin problems might be “too common” that we do not bat an eyelash when we experience any of these. However, the likes of acne breakouts, sunburn, dry and irritated skin, prickly heat or heat rash, and even noticing the onset of premature skin aging, can dampen your fun.
Moving smart for your skin health this summer
Take an oath to wear sunscreen daily
Now, taking an oath may be a stretch when it comes to wearing sunscreen, but that’s just how important it is! The sun emits a spectrum of ultraviolet (UV) rays that damages the skin, causing sunburn, premature skin aging and in prolonged overexposure, skin cancer.
Applying sunscreen and letting it settle on your skin before heading out gives you enough protection. If you’re out to swim or engaging in activities that make you sweat, make sure you reapply again as sunscreen can wear off.
Pro tip: Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing sunscreen with that blocks UVA and UVB, and choose a product that has SPF15 and above.
Cover up with sun-protective clothing and accessories
Following sunscreen, you can take sun protection up a notch by covering exposed skin, such as the arms and legs. Opt for clothes that are lightweight and cottony due to its breathability and ability to absorb moisture. Don’t forget to wear a hat to protect your hair and to offer more shade for your face, ears and neck. Use a pair of sunglasses to also protect your eyes and for that oomph factor to your summer get up!
Cleanse your skin gently and thoroughly
When it is hot out and you’re feeling more sweaty and oilier, the urge to wash your skin every now and then (especially your face) can amplify. Don’t fall for this as this can make your skin drier! Instead, limit your cleansing to twice a day: when you wake up and before heading to bed!
Make sure to use a gentle product so your natural oils do not get stripped off. Rub your skin in circular motion for at most 60 seconds to make sure you get rid of excess oil, dirk and makeup. Once done, pat your skin dry (not tug!) and head on to our next tip!
Pro tip: So, what can you do for mid-day oiliness if you cannot cleanse? Use a soft facial tissue or a blotting sheet to remove excess oil! Make sure you don’t frag and instead, pat your skin when using these products.
Don’t skip moisturizers
Moisturizers are one of the keys to glowing skin, and that’s true even for summer. We know that it can get icky since most moisturizers are heavy to the skin. There is a workaround: choose water-based moisturizers! These can quench the thirst of the skin as it penetrates better than most oil-based moisturizers. In turn, this keeps the skin hydrated from within.
Exfoliate regularly, that is, once or twice a week
It’s no secret that summer is also the season when you sweat more and feel sticky due to oil production, dirt on the skin, and using of skin products. We recommend exfoliating once or twice a week to help remove any build-up that do not budge when you shower or cleanse. Make sure you don’t overdo it to prevent drying and irritating the skin.
Note: For any persisting skin concerns that last for a week or more, we recommend consulting with a dermatologist to find the root cause and to create a personalized treatment plan that fit your needs.
