The skin is the first line of defense between your bodies and the outside environment, making it essential for your health and well-being. As the weather and season change, though, so do the needs of your skin. What worked to give you clear, glowing skin in the winter, won’t necessarily make you glow this summer. Read on to learn about the most common summer skincare mistakes.

Over-cleansing

Humid days and oily skin can make it tempting to scrub your face clean every night, but cleansing too harshly or too often can irritate the skin and make acne worse. Wash your face every morning and night and after a sweaty workout or outdoor session. To avoid irritation, switch to a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that will remove dirt and oil without stripping your skin dry. We know it can be satisfying to experience a tight, tingly, and dry feeling after washing your face, but if that’s the case, then your cleanser is too harsh. 

Ignoring your SPF 

It’s essential to use an SPF of at least 30 all year long, but it’s especially critical during the summer months. It’s easy to forget that sunscreen isn’t effective unless it’s applied correctly. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every couple of hours, especially when sweating or in water. Also, don’t be fooled by makeup with SPF claims. To receive optimal sun protection, apply an additional SPF alone or an SPF/moisturizer combo.

Not exfoliating

Consistent exfoliation is essential all year long to prevent clogged pores and a dull complexion, but it’s especially crucial during the summer months. Humidity and sweat sit on the skin and trap dirt, oil, and environmental toxins that clog pores. Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA’s) like glycolic and lactic acid remove surface layers of dead skin and brighten the complexion. If you have acne or acne-prone skin, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) like salicylic acid is a better option. BHA’s penetrate oil deep into pores and dissolve dead skin cells to unclog pores and resurface the skin.

Not moisturizing

One common summer skincare mistake is to stop using a moisturizer during the summer. Just because your skin isn’t as dry as it was in the winter, does not mean that your skin is hydrated. Dewy, oily skin is not the same as hydrated skin. Instead, switch out your heavy winter moisturizer for a lighter formulation. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which will add moisture and protect the skin without weighing it down.