5 Skin-Smart Tips for Summer
Summer brings sunny weather and outdoor fun—but also potential damage to our skin. The scorching heat, harmful UV rays, and increased humidity can lead to various skin issues if we don't take proper care.
But no need to fear—UR Medicine dermatologist Dr. Mara Weinstein Velez is an expert in keeping skin healthy, radiant, and protected. Here are her top five summer skincare tips.
- Stay Hydrated (Inside and Out!)
Hydration is key not only for overall health but also for maintaining beautiful skin. Dehydrated skin may appear dry, dull, and scaly. You’ll even begin to notice the presence of fine lines and wrinkles.
Hot weather increases fluid loss through sweating, making hydration especially important during the summer. Plus, drinking enough water helps flush toxins, keeping your skin plump rather than dry and flaky.
Keep your skin hydrated topically with skincare products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
Is 8 glasses of water a day enough?
Find out the do's and don'ts when it comes to staying hydrated and know the signs of dehydration.
- Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable
Sunscreen is a must for your summer skincare routine!
Summer Health Guide
Explore our Summer Health and Safety Guide for expert tips on heat, hydration, bug bites, sun protection, water safety, and when to seek care.
Harmful UV rays can damage your skin, causing sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
One in five Americans can develop skin cancer in their lifetime, so it's important to take extra preventative steps.
What sunscreen should you use?
Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it generously on all exposed areas of your skin.
Opt for sunscreen with mineral-based ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These natural compounds sit on the skin's surface and deflect sunlight so that UV radiation doesn't penetrate the skin.
If you are prone to hyperpigmentation, opt for a tinted mineral-based sunscreen. Iron Oxides are a key ingredient in tinted sunscreens, and they are known for blocking visible light/blue light, which can contribute to pigment production on the skin.
- Always Reapply Sunscreen
Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. You can even try a powder or compact SPF 30+ if you don't want to keep applying a liquid formula.
Do I need sunscreen if it's cloudy?
You should use sunscreen even on cloudy days. Although clouds can cover the sun’s rays, they cannot stop UV rays. And while UVB can't penetrate glass, UVA can.
UVA exposure leads to collagen degradation and can accelerate signs of aging. Therefore, protection is still necessary even indoors or when sitting in a car to maintain youthful, smooth, and healthy skin.
- Embrace Antioxidants
But antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and green tea can stabilize those free radicals, so they don’t damage your skin cells.
Antioxidants also promote collagen production, keeping your skin youthful and glowing.
Consider using skincare products that contain antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extracts to reinforce your skin's defense against environmental damage.
- Post-Sun Care
After a day in the sun, take a cool shower to soothe your skin and remove any sweat or sunscreen residue. Follow up with a hydrating and soothing moisturizer to replenish lost moisture.
If you get sunburned, apply aloe vera gel to soothe the affected areas. Avoid picking at peeling skin and stay away from heat sources like hot showers to prevent further irritation.
Expert Dermatology and Skin Care
URochester Medicine Dermatology offers a full range of dermatology services for adults and children with skin conditions as common as warts and as complicated as skin cancer. Our goal is to provide each patient with the best care possible.
Connect with us!
