Pared Down Skincare Routines + Sunscreen Create a Calm, Cool, and Collected Summer Complexion
Using fewer products with multiple benefits vs. layering lotions, potions, creams, and emollients saves us time and money and keeps our skin clear and comfortable as the mercury climbs.
Think of it this way, we’re not wearing our winter coats over heavy sweaters this time of year, so it doesn’t make much sense to pile on weighty skincare products. Especially since summer’s heat, humidity, salt water, chlorine, and some sunscreens can make skin extra sensitive, blemish-prone, and reactive to product and ingredient overkill. Here, how to create a skinimal routine for beautiful summer skin.
- Think multi-purpose: Look for products that impart several benefits in one tube, for example, cleansers that also exfoliate, remove makeup, and fight blemishes and moisturizers that safeguard skin against harmful free radicals and fight aging.
- Reach for a serum vs. a cream: As temperatures soar, thicker moisturizing formulas can cause clogged pores, inflammation, and breakouts, especially if we have blemish-prone or oily skin. A serum infused with high-power yet lightweight hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane will keep skin plump, dewy, and comfortable without adding potentially pore-clogging weight.
- SPF. SPF. SPF.: Sunscreen is the most crucial part of any summer skincare regimen. Choose an SPF of 30 or higher with broad-spectrum protection and apply it to all exposed skin every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. Don’t forget easy-to-neglect areas like the ears, hands, feet, lips, and back of the neck.