Taking care of your skin in the summer is essential. Skin health as we age is about more than just looking good. Summer is tough on older skin. As we age, our skin thins, making it more susceptible to the damage of UV rays. That can cause irritation, sunburns and long-term damage.
Dehydration during the summer can cause cracked, dry skin that can be uncomfortable and potentially lead to an infection. So drinking plenty of fluids and maintaining hydration to aid skin health is crucial during the summer months.
You also need to read over your medication warnings. Some drugs can make a person more sensitive to sunlight and increase the risk of a burn. Plus, conditions like eczema and psoriasis can become worse with too much sun or warm weather.
Applying sunscreen early in the day and frequently while you are outside can protect your skin. If you are out in the sun, you should reapply every 90 minutes with SPF 50. And stick to the shade when possible, using wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and umbrellas to bring the shade with you where you go.
Moisturizing daily can help prevent your skin from drying out. Many moisturizers contain a low level of SPF to start your day out on the right foot. It can boost your skin hydration and start your day off with a base of SPF to build off of.
It is currently National Cleanse Your Skin Week. We often joke that there is a holiday for everything. But we think that, if there is going to be a week for bringing awareness to the importance of washing your facial skin, it’s best to do it during the hottest, muggiest time of the summer. The skin is the barrier to keeping bacteria and viruses out of your body. And during the summer, our skin can take a beating.
“Cleansing one’s face correctly is important throughout the year,” says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner. “In the summer there may be a tendency to cleanse more frequently and even more vigorously to remove perspiration and dirt in the air, as well as makeup, sunscreen, and even chlorine and saltwater that may have accumulated after a day at the beach or poolside. For some skin types such as dry, oily or acne-prone, over-cleansing can cause more harm than good.”
Washing your skin once in the morning and once in the evening can be beneficial if you are sweating. More than that can cause irritation, inflammation and for your skin to dry out. Avoiding harsh scrubs and using gentle cleansers can also aid skin hydration and comfort.
