Dry Skin & Summer: How Stay Hydrated and Glowing!
Photo by: Suad Kamardeen
As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, dry skin becomes a common concern for many individuals during the summer months. The combination of heat, humidity, increased sun exposure, and dry air from artificial cooling sources (AC) can strip our skin of its natural moisture, leaving it dehydrated and dull. Fret not! I got your back! Here are 5 effective strategies and expert tips to nourish and care for dry skin, ensuring a hydrated and radiant complexion all summer long.
1. Hydration is Key:
In almost every blog I talk about the importance of hydration. Creating a hydrating skincare regimen is essential to combating dryness. You will need to increase your water intake throughout the day to hydrate your body from within. Additionally, opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers that won't strip away the skin's natural oils. If you have dry, acne-prone skin, this may mean putting away the active ingredients for a few months and selecting a cleanser that is both hydrating and antibacterial. Follow up with a rich, ultra-hydrating moisturizer that contains nourishing ingredients such as aloe or argan oil to replenish and fortify the skin barrier.
2. Protection is non-negotiable:
You should always be using a skin protectant with SPF, but it becomes especially important for individuals with dry skin during the summer. Dry skin is more susceptible to peeling, flakiness, and signs of aging during the summer when it's not protected. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 to shield your skin from sun damage. Look for sunscreens that are specifically formulated for dry skin, as they often contain moisturizing properties to keep your skin hydrated while offering protection. To learn more about how to select the correct spf, check out our blog Yes, Black People Need Sunscreen Too!
3. Reconsidering the products you use can be the difference between dull, struggling skin and supple, youthful skin:
If you're not rethinking your skincare regimen during the summer months, that could be why your skin is struggling. Adding a gentle exfoliant may be the game changing secret ingredient to you've been looking for. Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and allows your moisturizer to penetrate more effectively. However, it is vital to choose gentle exfoliators that won't exacerbate dryness. Opt for products with ingredients that naturally exfoliate like papaya. Papaya contains the enzyme papain, which helps clear your skin of dead skin cells. If you’re more of a manual exfoliation person, try a product with very fine exfoliating particles like our Brown Rice Micro-Exfoliant. Brown rice is cooling and anti-inflammatory making it the perfect summertime exfoliation method that won’t increase your skin's sun sensitivity. Follow up with a hydrating mask, moisturizing sheet mask, or a serum to infuse your skin with an extra dose of hydration.
4. Unpack the humidifier:
As you can imagine, dry air exacerbates skin dryness. Consider using a humidifier in your home or office to add moisture to the air. This can help alleviate dryness and prevent your skin from becoming dehydrated. There are many small desktop humidifiers on the market, just be sure you are only using distilled water and cleaning the device weekly to avoid bacteria and mold build up. Additionally, avoid spending excessive time in air-conditioned spaces if you can help it, as they tend to have low humidity levels that can further dry out your skin.
5. Consider some lifestyle adjustments:
Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to dry skin, so making a few adjustments can significantly improve your skin's hydration levels. Avoid hot showers or baths, as hot water can strip away the skin's natural oils. Instead, opt for lukewarm water and keep shower time short. Additionally, incorporate foods rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, such as avocados, nuts, and berries, into your diet to nourish your skin from the inside out. For an in-depth guide on how your diet can affect your skin and changes you can make today to get glowing, youthful skin, check out my blog You Are What You Eat.
Don't let dry skin keep you from living your best life this summer. By following these essential skincare tips, you can replenish and maintain your skin's moisture levels, ensuring a healthy and radiant complexion. Embrace the summer with confidence, knowing that your skin is well-equipped to withstand the elements and remain beautifully hydrated throughout the season.