Photo by Sora Shimazaki: https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-woman-with-towel-applying-cream-on-face-5938592/

By: Jane Owens

Not scientifically reviewed by Dr. Eeks

When the sun is beating down and the air is dry, it can play havoc with your skin. Indeed, there are many hazards that the hot weather can throw at your skin and the fact that we are likely to be outside, even more, when the weather is good only compounds this. However, there are plenty of ways you can care for your skin naturally this summer. Just read on to find out what they are.

Swap to a lightweight moisturizer 

One of the smartest things you can do for your skin this summer is to swap out any heavy moisturizers for lightweight ones. This is because heavier moisturizers can block up your pores and result in spots and blemishes. Heaver moisturizers will also lead to more sweating which can have a similar effect. 

However, due to the drying effect of the sun, and warm air, your skin will need to be regularly moisturized. The good news is that finding a lightweight moisturizer that is easily absorbed should do the trick. You may even want to have a go at making your own from all-natural ingredients if you like? Its easy to do! 

Slather on that suncream 

In addition to any moisturizer that you use you will need to invest in a good sunscreen. After all, the sun’s UVA and UVB rays are known to damage the skin, increase the risk of lines and wrinkles, and lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. 

However, there is something you need to remember about sunscreen. The first is that the lotion that you use on your body isn’t always the best choice for your face. Indeed, body sunscreens are fine for your body, but they do tend to be pretty heavy and can lead to blocking of the pores in the face, as described above. Instead, you can find fragrance and colour-free high-level sunscreens like the ones you can get from THE ICONIC and other online beauty retailers. In fact, they have products such as Ultra Violette’s Clean Screen SPF30 75ml that is both lightweight and offers protection from including UVA + UVB, infrared, blue, and visible light with an SPF rating of 30. 

Enjoy plenty of fruits and veggies 

One of the great things about summer is that it is the perfect time to switch to a lighter diet of fruits and veggies. Indeed, salads, fruit salads and raw veggies like crudites can be a fantastic choice for when the weather is hot because they contain a large percentage of water which is great for hydration. 

They are also packed full of valuable vitamins and nutrients like Vitamin A, which you can find in leafy greens like spinach and kale, tomatoes, bell peppers and cantaloupe melons, which can help your skin to build collagen naturally as well as reduce inflammation. 

Choose natural, breathable fabrics 

Wearing natural, breathable fabrics can also be very helpful for your skin in the summer. This is because tight, man-made fabrics are terrible at letting the air circulate around your body, something that means you will sweat more, and the sweat will get trapped next to your skin. Of course, this can then lead to a whole host of skin issues such as itching, rashes, dryness, and blemishes. 

That is why it’s a much better idea to wear clothes made of natural and breathable fabrics instead. Choose cotton, linen, or silk for especially hot days and your skin will thank you for it. 

Wash your face twice a day 

In the heat of the summer, it’s very easy for the skin on your face to become clogged with sweat and sunscreen and make-up only add to this. That is why it’s very important that you make the effort to wash your face twice a day. Once in the morning to wash away the sweat of the night, and once at night to remove all the pore-clogging substances like makeup. Just be sure to choose a natural cleanser or make your own. 

Reduce your exfoliation routine 

You probably already know that exfoliation can do wonders for your skin. This is because it sloughs off the upper layer revealing a fresh new layer underneath. However, over-exfoliation is a no-no, especially in the summer. The reason for this is that it can make it both harder for your skin to heal, and that exfoliation can cause your sun sensitivity to increase, which is bad news if you are looking to avoid sun damage on both your face and body. 

With that in mind, if you know you will be spending plenty of time outdoors in the sun, it’s best to keep exfoliation to a minimum. Indeed, cutting down your exfoliation to once a week, and reducing sun exposure the day after will help keep you safer and ensure that your tan lasts for as long as possible too. 

Stay hydrated 

Your skin is 64% water, so one of the most sensible, natural ways you can boost its health in the summer is to ensure that you stay as hydrated as possible. Unfortunately, many of us have trouble consuming enough water during the day. Although there are some tactics you can use to help you. 

The first is to up your hydration by consuming natural juices or chilled herbal teas. As long as they do not have caffeine in them then it all still counts. Plus, you can access some important vitamins and herbs in this way too. 

You may also wish to invest in a water tracking app. You can even get water bottles that track your consumption manually with a clicker on the top, or automatically by connection to your smartphone, both of which can really help you increase your water intake and keep your skin beautifully hydrated all summer long. 

Final thoughts 

There are so many ways to get naturally glowing skin this summer. You don’t have to do every single one, but if nothing else be sure to use an appropriate sunscreen and stay as hydrated as possible.