Summer is approaching and that means beautiful weather, trips to the beach, and lounging by the pool. Summer is the season to kick back, relax, and enjoy the sun, but with increased sun exposure, comes increased risk of UV damage to your skin. Even though UVA/UVB rays are harmful all year round, they’re especially damaging during the hot summer months. That’s why it’s so important to amp up the sun protection in your regular skin care routine. The sun is hot and it can burn you in a matter of minutes, but it can also dry out your skin and hair, and damage the appearance of your skin. We’ve put together 7 hot tips for summer skincare so you can protect yourself from head to toe.

1. Make Some Changes

Consider tweaking your skincare routine for the summer months. Summer heat can take a toll on your skin. Because environmental pollution and humidity can cause your skin to be more oily than usual and breakout, you might want to opt for a foaming cleanser and lightweight moisturizer.

2. Exfoliate

The sun, salt water, and other factors during summer can dry out your skin. You can get rid of flaky, dry skin by using a body scrub on dry skin before you shower. Scrub your whole body, paying special attention to elbows, knees, and other areas prone to dry skin. Shower as usual and slather on a rich body cream or oil while your skin is still a little damp.

3. Protect Your Scalp

While long hair offers some protection for the sun, your scalp and hairline can get easily burned. To ensure you don’t get burned, you can use a spray sunscreen, of at least 30 SPF, and spray along your hairline and part. You should also wear a hat for extra protection during prolonged exposure.

4. Don’t Neglect Your Hands

Many people overlook their hands when applying sunscreen, but the thin skin on your hands is easily damaged by UV rays. The skin on your hands is delicate and prone to hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. Be sure to use a broad spectrum UV protectant on the backs of your hands, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen to the backs of your hands as part of your morning skincare routine, it will protect your hands on your commute!

5. Start Summer Skincare in Winter

Over application of thick creams and lotions during the winter can make your skin ‘lazy’ and dull. If you’re applying too many heavy creams, you might be conditioning your skin to dry out without it. Unless you have super dry, eczema-prone skin, don’t over-hydrate before giving your skin a few weeks to adjust naturally.

6. Don’t Forget Your Lips

The heat and sun of the summer can take a toll on your lips. Don’t forget to protect them! The sensitive skin on your lips is prone to burning, and lipgloss can make sun damage even worse. Use a moisturizing, SPF lip balm to protect your lips. Manage chapped lips with a moisturizing lip scrub and nourishing balm.

7. Always Wear Sunscreen

Sunscreen is important not only in summer but all year round. Even though the heat of UV rays is weaker in the winter, they can still age your skin. Always wear sun protection of at least SPF 30 (ideally more) to slow down the signs of aging and prevent hyperpigmentation. During the summer months, it’s crucial to avoid burning your skin at all costs. If you have fair skin, that means tanning isn’t a great idea either! Save your skin and opt for a bronzer instead. If you do get burned, make sure you follow through with proper aftercare.

8. Give Your Skin an Antioxidant Boost

Using skin care products that contain antioxidants is a good idea all year round. To protect your skin from UV ray damage and other oxidative stress, use a high-quality face cream or serum that contains Vitamin C or polyphenols. A good Vitamin C cream or serum will protect you from sun damage and environmental pollution.

9. Mist Your Skin

Keep a facial mist handy to give your face some relief from the heat. A face mist will cool down your skin, plus provide other benefits like added moisture and strengthening your skin’s outer layer.

10. Soothe Inflammation

A lot of people experience itchy rashes during the summer due to a reaction to UV light or something else, like excessive sweating. Take measures to reduce the chances of inflammatory skin issues like exposing your skin to the sun gradually, keeping your skin cool and wearing breathable cotton clothing. If you do get a rash, avoid itching, and ask your dr. for hydrocortisone cream.

Sun damage is a huge factor in contributing to early signs of aging, and prevention is your best weapon against skin damage and hyper-pigmentation. So pay extra attention to your skin during the hot summer months. Use sunscreen, cover up, and keep your skin hydrated!