Summertime is the perfect time to bathe in the sun. The warmth of its rays improves your serotonin levels, thus effectively it’s improving your mood, increasing your body’s vitamin D, levels, lowering your blood pressure and Enhancing the quality of your sleep. But too much of a good thing is bad. This statement also rings true for sunlight. Too much exposure to UV rays isn’t healthy, especially if you have sensitive skin.

If you’re not careful, you might experience not only sunburn but also other more serious conditions like skin cancer.

Still, no one can resist the appeal of the sun and summer. So, if you have delicate skin but still want to enjoy the great outdoors this season, follow these seven dermatologist-approved tips for taking care of your sensitive skin:

1.   Boost your Sun Protection Factor (SPF).

Everyone needs to apply sunscreen when going out to protect their skin. But those with sensitive skin need a product with SPF 30 to 50 or higher.

Sunscreen must be reapplied every several hours, especially when swimming during summer. You also need to use the right amount to get full coverage, depending on where you’re applying it:

• Half a teaspoon for the face.
• One full teaspoon for the body.

Of course, even though it’s the first and foremost step in protecting your skin, sunscreen should be the last step in your skincare routine.

2.   Cover up when going out.

You can also protect your sensitive skin by keeping it covered when you go out in the sun. Your skin is at a higher risk of sun damage, so make sure you wear full protective gear.

Besides applying sunblock, consider wearing sleeved tops and long pants. If the weather is too warm, choose items made from breathable materials, like linen and cotton.

Try to avoid tight-fitting jeans and sleeves as they can also cause skin irritation, which is more counterproductive than what you’re trying to achieve.

And don’t forget to don your sunglasses to shield your eyes, and a hat to protect your face. Parasols also help, especially if you go in and out of the sun.

3.   Know what to avoid.

When buying skin care products, the rule of thumb is to use what’s recommended for your skin type. In short, buy sensitive skin products if you have sensitive skin.

Of course, this isn’t just about those big, bold letters on product labels that easily catch your attention. You should also read what is written in the fine print as well as on the packaging of products that may not always be top-of-mind since they’re not directly applied to the skin.

Look at the ingredients and watch out for potential irritants or harsh substances. This applies to makeup and skincare products, as well as detergents and other products used on your clothes, and other items that get in contact with your skin.

Below are a few examples of what you must avoid:

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: This is used as a foaming agent for soaps and other bath products.
• Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate or Ammonium Laureth Sulfate: These harsh ingredients are usually found in detergents.
• Salicylic Acid: This is found in acne and anti-aging products but is too abrasive for sensitive skin.
• Parabens: These act as preservatives for products but can irritate the skin.
• Fragrances: These leave the product smelling good but have a high potential to irritate the skin.
• Herbal extracts: Not all herbal ingredients are safe to use for delicate skin, so it’s best to err on the safe side and do your research first.

Try not to use heavy makeup and other skin products, as these can hinder your skin from breathing, especially on warm and humid days. Instead, consider just applying a tinted moisturizer and lip balm to get that “no-makeup” makeup look.

Pro Tip: Look for makeup products labeled “non-comedogenic,” as they are made without pore-clogging ingredients. Also, consider looking for lighter product alternatives, like oil-free primers and powder sunscreen.

4.   Ease up on skincare products.

Being picky about the products you use is only half the battle; you must also reduce the number of items you apply on your face and body during the hot summer months.

As for your skincare routine, experts recommend sticking to cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin from UV rays.

Aside from using the right amount of SPF (see item no. 1), update your cleansing and moisturizing steps in your beauty regimen according to the guide below:

Cleansing

Keep your face free of sweat and dust during hot summer months to avoid pimple breakouts. Wash your face at least three to four times daily. You can use mild cleansers once or twice, but water should be okay for the rest.

Moisturizing

Even though you should lighten your skincare routine, you must never skip moisturizers completely. (Extra layers of sweat don’t count as a moisturizer.)

Instead, consider replacing your thick, heavy creams with gentle, water-based products to give your skin the extra moisture it needs without blocking your pores.

5.   Shower more frequently, but don’t do it too long.

Because beach days, workouts, and even just plain summer sweat can make you feel icky, you might feel the urge to shower more during this season. This is totally fine, as long as you don’t stay under the shower too long.

Dermatologists recommend cutting your showers short to a maximum of four to five minutes. Also, avoid showering with too-hot water as it can dry your skin and cause summertime eczema or inflammation.

6.   Pat, don’t rub.

Whether you just took a bath or went for a dip in the beach or pool, never rub your skin dry with a towel afterwards. Instead, gently pat away the excess moisture.

Rubbing your face with a towel is believed to cause acne breakouts and other skin issues. The abrasive movement also tends to excessively dry out the skin.

7.   Drink lots of fluids.

Not all sensitive skincare tips involve what’s outside. In most cases, you can keep your skin supple and healthy-looking by simply drinking plenty of fluids.

Hydrate with at least two to three liters of water every day, especially during summer. Watermelon, fresh juices, and coconut water are also excellent fluid supplements.

Drinking plenty of liquid also helps flush out toxins from the body, especially with the addition of yogurt and buttermilk in your diet.

Enjoy summer without Putting Your Skin at Risk

Get ready to savor the warmth of the sun this summer. Boost your SPF, cover up, and be picky with your skincare products to get the protection and hydration your sensitive skin needs through this hot-but-fun season.

About the author;

This article was written by guest author Marn Caldez.