It’s hot outside. We’re sweating. We’re in the sun. If you’re anything like me, your skin might need a little TLC. After slathering on loads of sunscreen and being outside in the pool (almost daily) my skin is screaming at me for some hydration and begging me to let it have a moment of calm. Not just my complexion, but also the whole body. So today we’re talking summer skincare and I’m sharing 5 tips to save your skin this summer.
1.Wear SPF. Every.Single.Day.
One of the simplest things that you can do is to wear SPF and reapply SPF throughout the day. It’s honestly that simple. I’ve learned from countless beauty professionals, wearing SPF is the one thing you can do to help keep your skin in the best shape. All the money you’re spending on facial treatments and products won’t do a bit of good if you’re not wearing SPF. It’s as simple as that.
My Go-To Sunscreens For My Face
When it comes to SPF I typically use the amount of two fingers. I start at the base of my finger and go up to my fingertip. I really let that sink into my skin before I continue on with makeup, if I’m wearing any. I do this every single day, even if I’m indoors. I apply all of my face, neck, and ears. I then apply some on my hands as well.
These are typical SPF I have on hand or have used in the past, that I really like for my complexion.
Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum is a great choice for those of you who need something more for sensitive, dry skin types. The formula features ingredients that are excellent for dry skin as well as plumping and calming the skin. I love the texture of this product as it does feel like a serum.
Round Lab Moisturizing Sun Screen I love a sunscreen like this because it can also double as your moisturizer. Again, another great choice for sensitive skin types.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice and Probiotics SPF50+ A favorite SPF for many reasons: It’s great for dry skin as it’s very hydrating. I like glow that it gives to my skin and it does dry down to more of a satin finish.
Supergoop! Every.Single.Face Watery Lotion SPF I have used this in the past and do find that I can apply makeup over this pretty easily. It’s not heavy and that I appreciate.
e.l.f. Suntouchable Whoa Glow Sunscreen & Primer is a product so similar to Supergoop! Glow Screen, that I have purchased the e.l.f. more times than I can count and not the Supergoop!. (Save that $$) This is great for adding glow to the skin and even better if you’re wanting to wear makeup over this, as it is a primer as well. A lot of the times I wear this and nothing else. It just brightens up my complexion and makes my skin look healthy.
DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer I shared this SPF on one of my recent newsletters (are you subscribed?) and I’m still using it almost daily. It is a very sheer tinted moisturizer. I’d say it doesn’t really offer a lot of coverage, but instead offers a nice glow to the skin. I like the formula and appreciate that it hasn’t caused my sensitive skin to freak out. This wears nicely under makeup. If you’d like to try this, you can save 30% off your first order. (That is my referral code, I earn points to shop if you make a purchase)
Curious about a Skin Tint with SPF? Check out the review I did on the Ilia Skin Tint!
Take Sunscreen With You On The Go
I find myself outside in the sun throughout the day, so I like to have a sunscreen with me that I can reapply, even over makeup. There are quite a few options to consider:
Tocobo Cica Cooling Sun Stick SPF5-+ I have used Tocobo SPF in the past and have had great results. I like to swipe this on my face, neck, and hands when I’m outside. I have used their other SPF products in the past and have had no issues with sensitivity. This particular Sun Stick appeals to me as I love Cica for it’s soothing properties.
Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 is great to take on-the-go. As far as brush-on SPF’s go, I’ve had the best of luck with this one. I use it on my face, neck, ears and even my hairline. It’s great for on-the-go protection. (Yes, their tinted sunscreen is excellent as well!)
I also have a bottle of Super Spritz Face Mist from Vacation. I read a lot of reviews who said that it stung their face when they applied it. However, I don’t have that reaction and I even have sensitive skin. So I do use this when I’m outdoors so I can reapply SPF to my face. Just a heads up that some have reported that it can sting.
Summer Skincare Tip #2
Exfoliate Your Skin Weekly
About once a week I will do an all over body exfoliation. I scrub my entire body (not face) and then I’ll shave my legs, and then follow up with a really hydrating body moisturizer. Once that dries down, I will add a nice (but rich) body oil. My skin will be as soft as can be and it glows. I swear by this.
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub This body scrub uses a combination of Glycolic and Lactic Acids to help with any rough, bumpy skin. For those of you with KP (Keratosis Pilaris) this product is a game-changer. I also like to use this to keep the skin smooth if you’re having issues with dry skin.
Tree Hut Exfoliating Body Scrub
This is the body scrub you will typically find in my shower. It’s affordable, but it does such an excellent job of exfoliating my skin. I particularly enjoy the Tropic Glow scent as it reminds me of Sol de Janeiro. It is said to be made with Sugar, Shea Butter, Cupuaçu Butter, Guarana & an array of natural oils including Pistachio, Evening Primrose, Avocado, Macadamia, Sweet Almond, Safflower and Orange Oils.
I also swear by their shaving oil as it’s the only shaving oil I use anymore. It’s so good.
Follain Body Scrub is another really good body scrub at a more affordable price point. This contains both physical and chemical exfoliants.
Osea Salts of the Earth Body Scrub I have visited many spa’s that use this product line and I have loved the products so much. This body scrub is one of my favorites. It contains mineral salts, seaweed, shea butter, and lavender oil. If you’re sensitive, you might want to opt for their Body Polish instead.
Follow up with their Undaria Algae Body Oil and your skin will be so soft.
Summer Skincare Tip #3
Keep Your Body Hydrated
After you’ve exfoliated (and shaved possibly) you need to moisturize your skin. I am a big believer in putting on my body lotion as I’m still slightly damp from getting out of the shower. It just sinks into the skin and wet skin absorbs better. Some of the hydrating body products that I really like are:
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream This is probably by far my favorite body cream to use, especially in the summer time. It’s not super heavy, but it really does an excellent job of hydrating my skin. It smells incredible (featuring salted caramel, pistachio, and vanilla) and it makes my skin so soft. They have a variety of different fragrances available and the latest product I’ve tried from them is their Body Butter which is incredible. It features vanilla, sandalwood, and orchid. You just can’t go wrong with So de Janeiro when it comes to body products.
Tree Hut Whipped Body Butter I really love their whipped body butters because it’s lightweight but still very hydrating. I use the Tropic Glow scent in the summertime most of the time. It features Cupuaçu Butter, Guarana, Pistachio Oil, and Shea Butter.
Osea Anti-Aging Body Balm is more of a skincare treatment, but it helps to firm up the skin as well as leaving it hydrated. It has a silky feel to it and I love using this to really treat my skin. It leaves my skin glowing and I find that I can see a visible difference in my skin when I use this. (I also use the body oil mentioned above with this)
eos Shea Better Moisture Body Lotion This is a new-to-me product that I have been using. This is an affordable product but it does really hydrate the skin and it smells incredible. (Every time I wear this lotion my husband comments on how good this smells)
La Roche Posay Lipikar Daily Repairing Moisturizer This moisturizer is fantastic. It’s not scented, it’s hydrating, it’s fast-absorbing, and it’s great for those with sensitive skin. I always have this on-hand to use.
Other hydrating products I like are:
- Fenty Whipped Oil Body Cream Butta Drop
- Ouai St. Barts Moisturizing Body Cream
- Vanicream (A giant tub of this is under $15 and can be used on the face and the body)
- Retinol Body Lotion (Under $20 and great for those concerned with firming their skin)
Summer Skincare Tip #4
Keep Your Face Hydrated
I mentioned body products that will keep your skin hydrated, now let’s talk facial products. Your skin needs hydration; we’ve established that. Your entire body needs hydration. Dry skin needs hydration. Oily skin needs hydration. Sensitive skin needs hydration. There are many ways to keep your complexion hydrated and protected. In the summer, I feel like I’m needing to replenish some moisture during long days outside. I use more hydrating products to help calm the skin and moisturize my complexion. Here are some of my favorites:
Facial Mists That Hydrate and Soothe The Skin
I love to spritz a facial mist on my complexion. Whether you’re in the office, traveling, or just sitting at home; this is a great way to treat your skin to some hydration and also to help calm the skin. Here are some of my favorites facial mists.
Caudalie Grape Water This is pure grape water that is full of minerals, nutrients, and polysaccharides that will help to calm and moisturize the skin.
La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water Face Spray This facial mist contains minerals and trace elements (Selenium, a product that is high in antioxidants) that offers soothing properties to the skin. I love to use this while I’m outdoors in the sun. Even better when refrigerated.
I’m also going to mention this Hypochlorous Acid spray that’s a dupe for the Tower28 SOS Spray. Hypochlorous Acid helps to fight infection and improve healing. It’s also great to clean up bacteria on the skin (if you break out easily this is amazing after working out, etc) I love having this on hand to spritz my skin if I can’t easily wash my face when needed. I spray this for a quick “cleanse” and also to help with my rosacea on my complexion. (Here’s a great video with some tips on how to use this)
Facial Serums and More That Help Keep The Skin Hydrated
I love a good hydrating skincare product. In the summer, I incorporate as many as possible. I’ll add serums, toners, essence, and even facial masks. In my opinion, the more the better. (I just placed a HUGE K-Beauty skincare order for hydrating, soothing products. I also ordered the latest hydrating serum from Prequel Skin. I’ll report back!) Here are some of my favorites.
Rhode Glazing Milk I just recently repurchased my second bottle of this product. It’s good. I’m not normally one to jump behind celebrity skincare lines, BUT this one was so heavily praised I had to give it a try. I was shocked at how much I loved this product. It’s loaded with amazing ingredients like copper, magnesium, zinc, ceramides, and more. This also helps protect my skin from free-radicals, hydrates the skin, and helps to calm my redness.
*Kypris Antioxidant Dew Quench and Glow Serum I was recently gifted a mini bottle of this serum and I’ve been using it ever since. I’m loving it. I combine this with their Elixir in the AM and PM. This helps to hydrate my skin and it really does feel like a big drink of water for your complexion. It contains vitamin c, e, and ferulic acid, as well as other botanical ingredients. Overall a lovely product.
COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin Power Essence I have used this for years and still love it. While I do think you have to be very careful where you order this from (notorious for having fake products sold in the US) it is a very hydrating product. As long as you don’t have any sensitivities (some are allergic) this is an excellent product to add to your routine after cleansing.
COSRX Peptide Skin Booster Serum This contains Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Allantoin all helps to plump the complexion, soothe, and hydrate.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides Serum This is a new-to-me purchase but the benefits of peptides and copper aren’t anything new. This is great for the skin barrier and with the addition of hyaluronic acid, it’s also hydrating.
BYOMA Hydrating Serum This is such an amazing product at an unreal price point. It features ceramides, squalene, and glycerin. It’s amazing for so many skin concerns like sensitivity, improving the skin barrier, hydration, plumping the skin and more.
CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum Another incredibly moisturizing product at an amazing price. This is loaded with good-for-you ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. They help to hydrate the skin as well as restoring the skin barrier. (I like to apply this to damp skin after I cleanse and tone)
Caudalie VinoHydra Moisturizing Mask I recently purchased this (about three weeks ago) and I’ve been using this consistently about two to three times a week. After a day of being in the sun, I want to give my skin a boost of hydration and this face mask was recommended by Devan on Instagram.
Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate and Glow Dream Night Cream and Mask I really like this mask, but I hate the packaging ONLY because I dropped the container on the floor and it broke. It was a brand-new package and since it’s glass, it broke. So don’t be like me and accidentally drop it, ha. Other than that, I love this face mask. I slather this all over my skin and let it sink in overnight. I love this one and I’ve repurchased it several times.
Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Sleepair Intensive Night Mask I swear by this mask if I’ve had a bit too much sun. I slather this mask on my face and let the ingredients do their job. It helps take down redness and has soothed a sunburn when I’ve needed it. It can be a bit sticky so fyi. (I also always have their hydrating sheet masks on hand!)
Summer Skincare Tip #5
Ingrown Hairs and Razor Burn
With summertime comes more shaving, waxing, laser treatments, plucking, and sugaring. All of that can lead to ingrown hairs and razor burn. As someone with PCOS, I get it. Ingrown hair is even more common with PCOS.
Topicals High Roller Ingrown Hair Tonic Topicals High Roller great product for dealing with those pesky ingrown hairs. I also love that this is a rollerball, so it’s so simple to apply. This features Zinc, Salicylic Acid, and Glycolic Acid. It helps to soothe any irritation as well as helping to prevent razor burn and/or ingrown hairs.
First Aid Beauty Ingrown Hair Pads FAB Ingrown Hair Pads are another great option for preventing and helping to treat razor burn and/or ingrown hairs. These are loaded with ingredients and come on a cotton round. Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, and Witch Hazel help to slough off dead skin so you don’t get any impacted hair follicles. (I have heard that they changed the cotton pad and a lot of people have said that they aren’t the same as before, BUT I haven’t repurchased yet so I can’t confirm that.)
Bonus Summer Skincare Tips
We’re normally all pretty good about applying SPF to our faces and bodies. However, a lot of people often neglect areas like their feet, their hands, and even their ears. Apply SPF everywhere and reapply as needed. I see people complaining about wrinkles and sun spots, but they aren’t wearing SPF. Keep these areas protected and your skin will thank you!
Ilia Lip Wrap Overnight Treatment
I have been raving about this product for years. I needed something to help with chapped lips and nothing was working. A sales associate at Sephora suggested this and it’s been my go-to ever since. I use this every single day and night. It’s thick and I wake up with the softest lips. I swear by this.
Sun Bum Scalp and Hair Mist
I spritz this on my scalp when I know I’m going to be outdoors and it has helped my scalp not get sunburnt as it has in the past. I pretty much always have a hat on when I’m outside in the pool, but even for those times when I’m walking outdoors, I spritz this on my hairline. Works great.
Stay Protected
If at all possible, I will always wear a hat when I’m in the pool. If I’m at the beach, we take a sun tent that has UPF50 protection. We even have these clip-on umbrellas for the chairs outdoors. I’ll also have a rash guard on hand if I’m worried about the sun being too strong.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water and staying hydrated is so important. You can use all of the skincare products I throw your way, but you need to make sure you are hydrating your body from the inside! Maybe buying that cute cup helps motivate you to drink more. Whatever works! I also just found these ice molds that work perfectly in my Stanley cup. I ordered them and plan on adding fruit to them. Anyways I can to jazz up my water.
Keep Your SPF Organized
I use this SPF bag to keep my sunscreens all in one place. I have my hair and face mist, SPF for my body, and the SPF for my face. I also keep a portable fan, a lip product, and sunglasses. Always. They’re always in my bag, ready to go. (There are so many cute bags on Amazon!)
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