Summer has finally arrived and it’s time to hit the pool and the beaches. But before you venture out into the sun for some fun, take care to protect your skin from the heat, humidity and chlorine. Overexposure to sun can be very harmful for the skin and can cause wrinkles and age spots to appear faster. The chances of developing skin cancer too increase many fold during summer. Follow these simple skin care tips to keep your skin healthy and glowing all through summer without compromising on the summer fashion trends of short skirts and bikinis.

Never stop using your moisurizer

Even though the skin may appear less dry during summer, do not stop using the moisturizer. Choose a lighter one, both for body and face that contains water-based formula. Apply a heavier eye cream for lighter serum.

Use sunscreen luxuriously

Choose sunscreen lotions or creams that offer broad spectrum protection. The minimum SPF required is 15. Apply the sunscreen luxuriously 10-12 minutes before venturing out in the sun.

Use lip balms

Choose a lip balm which offers broad spectrum protection from the sun. A minimum SPF 15 is a must. Also ensure that they provide your lips with enough moisture to keep them safe and supple for long hours.

Start using summer fashion cosmetics

Switch to a mineral-based, light foundation powder from your normal liquid foundation. Ensure that the foundation is atleast SPF 15. Opt for a natural glow with bronzing powder instead of using your favourite creamy blush. Skip your lipstick and use SPF-enriched lip gloss. Trade your normal mascara for waterproof mascara.

Switch to protective summer fashion trends

You don’t need to cover yourself from top to bottom, but instead use a fine long sleeve shirt, a hat with a wider brim and a good pair of sunglasses. Keep in mind that light shade cotton fabrics offer you a better protection from the sun compared to dark colored, tightly woven fabrics.

Use Sunless Self Tanner

Avoid sun tan completely to reduce your chances of developing wrinkles, age spots and skin cancer. Instead opt for a self tanner that is sunless. You may use a spray tan or air brushing is also a better option.

Exfoliate religiously

Exfoliating the dead skin, which would have increased many fold due to sweat and sun exposure, using a mild scrub can help in keeping your skin smooth and soft. Exfoliating on a regular basis will also prevent streaking.

Insist on smart shaving

Since you will be wearing shorter dresses in summer, frequent shaving is a must for summer skincare. Make sure that the shaving cream you choose contains moisturizers that will keep the skin soft and supple even after hair removal.

Prevent the occurrence of Rosacea

A very common medical condition of the skin that develops due to excessive heat, Rosacea results in the development of reddish swelling that breaks into small pimple-like spots. If you do develop Rosacea, keep yourself in cool conditions and wear loose-fitting and light weight clothes.

Above all these, the most vital element of summer skincare is the intake of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. Avoid oily and spicy food as it can cause the skin to become dry. Drink atleast 8 glasses of water to maintain natural moisture of the skin.