Summer’s here! You need some summer skincare essentials to maintain your beautiful skin. Kids are out of school, and you’re planning a vacation away from your home in Alexandria. You’re probably already prepared for the intense heat, increased humidity, and prolonged sun exposure (whew!). After all, you know it can lead to skin issues like sunburn, dehydration, breakouts, and premature aging. Maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion during these warmer months requires a customized skincare routine. One that can combat these specific summer concerns. Our Virginia Center for Plastic Surgery team has essential summer skincare tips and products that will help you protect, hydrate, and nourish your skin. Work with Dr. Desman, and your skin will be beautiful and healthy all season.
Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable in your summer skincare arsenal. A broad-spectrum sunscreen helps:
- Shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays
- Prevent sunburn
- Offset premature aging
- Reduce your risk of skin cancer
At Virginia Center for Plastic Surgery, we suggest that you look for a mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for the best possible protection. Apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours. Remember to reapply after swimming or sweating, too. Pay special attention to areas like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet. Adding sunscreen to your daily routine is the best defense against the sun’s harmful rays. Keeping your skin healthy and radiant.
Hydrating Moisturizer
You drink when you’re thirsty, don’t you? Your skin also needs hydration, particularly during the hot summer months in Alexandria (or anywhere else, for that matter!). A lightweight, hydrating moisturizer helps your skin’s moisture barrier to prevent dryness and irritation.
Look for ingredients such as:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
These ingredients provide hydration for your skin without it feeling heavy or greasy. Apply your moisturizer twice daily on clean skin in the morning and evening. This keeps your skin supple and soft. Plus, it enhances your skin’s resilience against the arid effects of sun exposure and air conditioning.
Antioxidant Serum
Anyone who’s spent time at the Virginia Center for Plastic Surgery knows that an antioxidant serum makes a powerful addition to your summer skincare routine. Antioxidants protect your skin from environmental damage, including UV rays and pollution. They also help repair sun-induced damage.
Look for serums containing:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Ferulic acid
These elements work together to neutralize free radicals and boost your skin’s defense. To maximize its protective benefits, apply the serum in the morning, after cleansing, and before moisturizer. Regularly using an antioxidant serum can upgrade your skin’s radiance, improve texture, and reduce the signs of aging.
Exfoliant
Exfoliation is vital to maintaining clear and glowing skin during the summer. By removing dead skin cells, exfoliants prevent clogged pores and help your skin absorb other products more effectively. Our Virginia Center for Plastic Surgery team recommends seeking out gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid), which work great but are less abrasive than physical scrubs. Exfoliate 1-2 times weekly, depending on your skin type, to avoid irritation. Routine exfoliation keeps your complexion smooth and bright and helps prevent breakouts and uneven texture.
Lip Balm with SPF
Our Virginia Center for Plastic Surgery team knows that protecting your lips from the sun is as important as shielding the rest of your skin. A lip balm with SPF safeguards your delicate lip skin from sunburn and prevents dryness and chapping. Pick one with SPF 15 or higher for adequate protection. Reapply often, especially after eating, drinking, or swimming. To keep your lips soft and hydrated, look for moisturizing ingredients. If you see shea butter, coconut oil, or beeswax, you’ll know you’re on the right track. A lip balm with accompanying SPF not only keeps your lips smooth and healthy but also helps to prevent long-term sun damage so they stay kissable all summer long.
Lightweight Makeup
During summer, choosing lightweight makeup helps your skin breathe and prevents clogged pores. Heavy foundations can feel uncomfortable and contribute to breakouts in the heat. Instead, choose BB creams or tinted moisturizers with SPF for a natural, even complexion. With SPF, you’ll also benefit from sun protection. These products offer a sheer coverage that feels light and looks fresh. Mineral powders are another great option, as they control shine without adding weight. Remove your makeup thoroughly at the end of the day to keep your skin clear and healthy.
Gentle Cleanser
Gentle cleansers also help you maintain your skin’s health during the summer. Cleansers remove sweat, sunscreen, and impurities without stripping your skin’s natural oils. Depending on your skin type, choose a gel or foam cleanser for oily skin or a creamy cleanser for dry skin. Cleanse your face twice daily, in the morning and evening, to keep your pores clear and prevent breakouts. A good cleanser helps to refresh and prep your skin. Think of it like the beginning of your skincare routine.
Summer Skincare in Alexandria
Virginia Center for Plastic Surgery has everything you need to take care of your skin this summer or any other season. Dr. Desman and our incredible team in Alexandria have a lot more resources for anything skincare-related. To find out more, go here to request an appointment.