Scorching temperatures, low moisture in the air, increased loss of moisture due to sweating, and the strongest UV rays of the year, are the earmarks of late summer in SoCal. If you don’t know how to hydrate your skin, this perfect storm of heat, dry air, loss of moisture, and harmful sun rays can completely dehydrate your skin, leading to breakouts, flaking, or a dulled appearance. So what can you do to keep your skin looking radiant during the hottest months of the year?
Don’t Underestimate the Power of Moisturizing
Let’s be clear, it’s important to moisturize all year long. But it’s even more important during hot weather, as you lose a lot more moisture through no fault of your own. So be sure you’re drinking plenty of water, and/or eating lots of fruits, which naturally have a lot of water.
It’s also in your best interest to select a high quality, lightweight face moisturizer. For added protection, choose a moisturizer that offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
Stay Consistent with Cleansing and Exfoliating
For moisturizers to work the way they are intended, your skin and pores must be open to absorption. That means you need to wash your face twice a day with a premium cleanser, cleansing oil or cleansing balm.
During the summer months, you might find cleansers with light citrus scents to be the perfect skincare product for the season. In addition, cleansing balms which prevent free radical damage and light luxurious cleansing oils which contain detoxifying microgreens are smart bets for the summer.
It’s also advisable to exfoliate your skin a couple of times a week, so that your moisturizer can penetrate, and hydrate your skin. Skin Cocoons by Mary Schook for example, are perfect for gently exfoliating your skin, without drying it out in the summer.
Choose a Hydrating Sunscreen
Sunscreen is crucial during warm weather, as it protects against skin cancer and early aging. But, it can also help keep your skin hydrated. Look for all-natural sunscreens which include anti-aging antioxidants, and are free of parabens, chemical UV absorbers, synthetic dyes.
Schedule a Facial
If you’re dealing with a dull, or flaky complexion, it’s time to schedule a facial. Facials are designed to target specific skin conditions, so be sure to book an appointment for a facial that is designed to hydrate your skin. Oxygen Infusion Treatments, for example, use the pressure of oxygen to help our skin retain moisture and stay hydrated.
Use a Humidifier
Since warm weather in SoCal often means low moisture in the air, using a humidifier in your home can help your skin to stay hydrated. For a calming effect, add a few essential oils before bed, and let your skin absorb the moist, gently scented air while you sleep.
Shorten Your Showers
Hot showers dry your skin. When the weather is warm, take shorter, less steaming showers, to prevent excessive drying of your skin.
Schedule a Skincare Consultation
If you want to learn more about how to hydrate your skin, based on your unique skin condition, schedule a consultation with a professional aesthetician. At Swiss Clinique, our holistic therapies for your skin, along with our premium line of organic skincare products will help you to achieve brighter, fresher, and younger-looking skin.