Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it can also take a toll on your skin, particularly your face. The hot and humid weather, along with increased sun exposure, can lead to a myriad of skin problems such as sunburn, acne breakouts, and dryness.

Therefore, it’s essential to have a proper skincare routine in place to protect and nourish your face during the summer months. Follow these expert tips and tricks to keep your skin healthy and glowing throughout the summer.

1. Wear Sunscreen Every Day

One of the most crucial steps in protecting your face during summer is to use sunscreen every day. The sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin, causing premature aging, dark spots, and even skin cancer.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply every two hours or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Look for a lightweight, oil-free formula that won’t clog your pores and opt for sunscreens with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for superior protection.

2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

The hot summer weather can lead to excessive sweating, which can dehydrate your skin. It’s essential to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

The general recommendation is to consume at least eight glasses of water a day, but you may need more if you’re spending time outdoors or engaging in physical activities. Additionally, using a hydrating facial mist throughout the day can provide an instant boost of moisture and refreshment.

3. Cleanse Gently, but Thoroughly

During summer, your face may produce more oil due to the heat and humidity. It’s essential to cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove dirt, sweat, and excess oil that can clog your pores and lead to breakouts.

Choose a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser that effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin’s natural oils. Avoid harsh cleansers or exfoliators as they can cause irritation and dry out your skin.

4. Exfoliate Regularly

Regular exfoliation is crucial for maintaining healthy and radiant skin, especially during summer. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell renewal.

However, be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as it can lead to skin irritation and sensitivity. Choose a mild exfoliator with gentle ingredients like fruit enzymes or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.

5. Moisturize Daily

Even though it’s hot and humid, don’t skip the moisturizer. Opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that provide hydration without a heavy or greasy feel.

Look for moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which help retain moisture in the skin. Applying moisturizer daily helps to balance oil production and prevent your skin from getting too dry or too oily.

6. Use Antioxidant-Rich Serums

Antioxidant-rich serums can be a game-changer for your summer skincare routine. They help combat the damaging effects of free radicals caused by sun exposure and pollution.

Look for serums that contain ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, or green tea extract. Apply a few drops of the serum after cleansing and before moisturizing for added protection and brightening benefits.

7. Remember Your Lips

Most people remember to apply sunscreen to their face but often neglect their lips. Your lips are susceptible to sunburn and can become dry and chapped during summer. Protect your lips with a lip balm that contains SPF.

Look for lip balms with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil to keep your lips hydrated and supple.

8. Don’t Forget Your Eyes

The delicate skin around your eyes is particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses with UV protection. This helps prevent fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots that can develop due to prolonged sun exposure.

Additionally, consider using an eye cream that contains SPF to provide extra protection.

9. Avoid Heavy Makeup

Summer is the perfect time to embrace a natural and minimal makeup look. Heavy makeup can clog your pores and lead to breakouts or increased oil production.

Instead, opt for a lightweight tinted moisturizer or a BB cream with SPF to even out your skin tone while providing sun protection. If you prefer using foundations, choose oil-free and non-comedogenic formulas.

10. Stay in the Shade

When the sun’s rays are at their strongest, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., it’s best to seek shade whenever possible. Limit your sun exposure during these hours to reduce the risk of sunburn and other skin damage.

If you need to be outdoors, wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts, in addition to sunscreen. These effectively shield your face from direct sunlight.