6 Tips For Your Summer Skin Care Routine

You made it past the snow shoveling and rain showers, and now you’re ready to revel in the warmth and sunshine of sweet summer. Before you do that though, you should consider how the extra hours in the sun can impact your skin. Aside from the occasional summer sunburn, UV rays can also accelerate some common signs of skin aging like fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. No thank you! The increased humidity and temperature can contribute to other summer skin issues too, including extra oil and shine, which is why you want to consider adjusting your skin care routine during the warmer months. If you’re not sure what that should entail, keep reading to learn how to foster your most beautiful summer skin all season long and what you need to create the best summer skin care regimen.

THE BEST SUMMER SKIN CARE ROUTINE

Follow these tips for gorgeous, healthy skin even on summer’s hottest days.

SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP #1: CLEANSE TWICE A DAY

When the air is hot and humid, your skin can get extra oily. Let’s be honest, you also may find that you sweat more during the summer compared to other seasons. And while mask mandates may have changed, there may still be instances where you’re required to wear a protective face mask (bring on the sticky). If this is the case, you certainly won’t want to let all the excess oil and sweat linger on your skin day after day. So, the best skin care regimen to help keep summer skin matte, yet moisturized, should include cleansing twice daily with a foaming facial cleanser. Try the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleanser, day and night. First thing in the morning, wash away oil and sweat that can build up on your skin’s surface overnight. Then, before bed, remove makeup and cleanse your skin again.

Editor's Tip: While over cleansing your skin is a no-no, you might find yourself in need of a quick cleanse between activities when you’re masking up. Throw the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Radiant Smoothing Wet Cleansing Towelettes in your bag before you head out so you can refresh your skin while on-the-go.

SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP #2: EXFOLIATE WITH GLYCOLIC ACID AT NIGHT

Your summer skin can produce excess oil, but it can also look dry and dull if you don’t exfoliate regularly. And don’t think you’re limited to exfoliating with a face scrub; a chemical exfoliating serum formulated with glycolic acid can help polish away dead skin cells that can cause the look of dull, lackluster skin. Try the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Glycolic Acid Serum at night. Over time it will even out your skin tone, reduce wrinkles, and minimize the look of dark spots. Just be sure to be on point with your sunscreen game—AHAs like glycolic acid may increase sun sensitivity.

SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP #3: TRY WATER-BASED MOISTURIZER

During the sticky summer months, your complexion won’t need the heavy-duty moisturizer you use during the winter. Instead, use a lightweight, water-based moisturizer twice per day. Choose from these options, all of which are formulated with hyaluronic acid: L'Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care – Normal/Dry Skin, L'Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care – Normal/Oily Skin, and L'Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care – Extra Dry Skin.

SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP #4: LAYER ON SPF, EVERY SINGLE DAY!

As you already know (because we can’t say it enough), SPF should be a staple in your summer skin care routine no matter what skin type or skin care concerns you may have. Follow the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Guidelines and wear sunscreen with an SPF value of at least 15 every day for activities with limited sun exposure (walking the door, driving to work) and 30 or more for a day outdoors (poolside relaxing, swimming or outdoor sports). You must reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It’s also important to protect your skin by avoiding the sun during its peak hours, seeking shade, and wearing a broad-brimmed hat—being sun smart can also look stylish.

SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP #5: GIVE SELF-TANNER A TRY

Who doesn’t want glowing, sun-kissed skin during the summertime? We certainly do! However, soaking up too much sun just isn’t healthy for your skin. Rather than lay out, try applying a self-tanner for a faux glow. For a long-lasting tan courtesy of a lightweight formula, try the L'Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Water Mousse. Be sure to apply it onto clean, freshly-exfoliated skin, and go easy on dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles. For your face, add a few drops of the L'Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Facial Drops, Fragrance-Free to your favorite moisturizer and enjoy a streak-free, natural-looking tan sans the UV rays.

Editor’s tip: Still not sure what type of self-tanner is for you? Head over to our article, The Best Self-Tanners For Every Part of Your Body, to learn more about different options.

SUMMER SKIN CARE TIP #6: GRAB AN OIL OR LOTION AT NIGHT

In addition to your regular moisturizer, try using a nourishing oil or light night cream before hitting the hay. Since you won’t want to slather on a heavy moisturizer during the daytime, taking this extra step can allow you to replenish moisture overnight. If you opt for an oil, be sure to use something lightweight that will dry down before you get into bed (no one wants oily sheets). Your skin will look dewy and radiant and feel soft all summer long. 

Next: 6 Haircuts That Are On-Trend for Summer 2021