Written By: Luiza V.
Summertime is approaching which means beach trips, short shorts, and fun in the sun. While laying out on a hot day can be quite appealing, it’s important that you are taking the proper precautions to protect your skin. Having a sun burn and struggling with dry skin are not only uncomfortable, but possibly harmful to your health. The sun’s rays can be quite damaging, and without a good skin care routine, you’ll find yourself susceptible to sunspots, early signs of aging, and even serious health conditions.
You should be able to spend a day in your swimsuit and sandals without being worried about damaging you skin or self-conscious that others will notice dry spots or other imperfections. If you want to guarantee that your skin will be as glowy as the sun on a hot summer day all season long, follow these easy steps to protecting and nourishing your skin this summer.
Just like being in the heat all day makes you thirsty, it also makes your skin thirsty. The sun is very good a ridding your body of moisture, so it is important that you thoroughly replenish your skin by keeping it hydrated all day long. The best ways to do this are:
“What are moisturizing treatments?”, you may ask. Well, one of the best ways to get a deep moisturizing effect is through paraffin wax. The wax itself is naturally moisturizing and leaves your skin extremely soft. However, you can go one step further by applying your favorite moisturizer under the wax. The heat of the wax will help the moisture penetrate your skin, making it’s hydrating effects last long after the treatment is done.
For maximum protection, it is best to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which will block 97% of the sun’s rays, and reapply it periodically throughout the day. This is especially important if you will be in a pool, lake, or ocean, since water makes the sunscreen wear off quicker than it otherwise would.
Many people remember to apply sunscreen to the large areas of their bodies like arms, legs, shoulders, and back. However, it’s important that you don’t forget small areas like your face, ears, neck, chest, knees, feet, and in between your fingers and toes. I’m not sure if you’ve ever gotten sunburn on the bottom of your feet but I am here to tell you it isn’t fun!
When applying sunscreen to the face, try to use a sunscreen that is specifically made for facial use. They will most likely be oil-free and less likely to cause breakouts.
It is extremely important to exfoliate in the summer as your pores can easily be clogged with sweat, dirt from the outdoors, and products like makeup and sunscreen. You don’t want to apply moisturizer, lotion, or more products over top of this as it will very easily lead to breakouts.
While some exfoliants can be very harsh, especially if your skin is sensitive from sun exposure, there are mild ways of exfoliating that are just as effective.
Paraffin wax does a great job of opening up your pores and aiding in the removal of dead skin cells. However, since it is also soothing to the skin and extremely moisturizing, you won’t find yourself with irritated red skin after doing a paraffin wax treatment. Dipping your hands and feet into the paraffin wax warmer will feel calming and relaxing on your skin, instead of harsh and painful.
Since there is a need for more products on your skin in the summer, it is important to let it breath when you can. Make sure to avoid sleeping in any makeup residue, and thoroughly clean your skin when you’re in the shower. Allowing product build up to remain on your skin too long will undoubtedly lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Try to wash your face twice a day, and don’t forget to moisturize after!
If you follow these simple steps, you are basically guaranteed to have healthy and glowing skin all summer long! No need to fret about skin damage, or not looking your best in your favorite off the shoulder top. If you have a good daily skincare routine and incorporate paraffin wax treatments a few times a week, your skin will thank you!
