Summer is here, and for many of us, it means days spent in the sun, picnics in the park, and trips to the beach. However, with the sun and heat come a new set of challenges for those with sensitive skin.

Heat, humidity, and sun exposure can all trigger irritation and inflammation, leading to a host of uncomfortable symptoms like redness, itching, and dryness. But don’t let sensitive skin ruin your summer fun! Follow these simple skincare tips to keep your sensitive skin happy and healthy all summer long.

1. Wear Sunscreen Every Day

One of the most important things you can do for your sensitive skin during the summer is to protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Exposure to the sun can trigger inflammation and irritation, so it’s crucial to wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy or overcast days. Look for a mineral-based sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation or allergy.

Apply it to your face and exposed skin at least 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

2. Use Gentle Cleansers

Cleansing your skin is an essential part of any skincare routine, but it’s especially important during the summer when your skin is exposed to more dirt, sweat, and oil.

However, harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils and exacerbate sensitivity. Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that’s specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid that help to hydrate and plump the skin while removing impurities.

3. Keep Cool

Hot weather can cause your skin to feel tight, dry, and itchy, especially if you have sensitive skin. To help alleviate these symptoms, try to keep cool as much as possible.

Stay in air-conditioned spaces when you can, and take cool showers or baths to soothe your skin. You can also try placing a damp towel or cloth on your skin to help lower your body temperature.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining healthy skin, especially during the summer when your body loses more water through sweating. Dehydration can exacerbate skin sensitivity, making it more prone to irritation and inflammation.

Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and eat water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries to help hydrate your skin from the inside out.

5. Avoid Excessive Scrubbing

Exfoliating your skin can help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, but excessive scrubbing can damage your skin barrier and exacerbate sensitivity.

Instead of harsh physical scrubs, opt for chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) that work to dissolve dead skin cells without damaging your skin barrier. Use these products no more than once or twice a week to avoid over-exfoliating.

6. Soothe with Aloe Vera

If you do experience irritation or sunburn, reach for aloe vera to calm and soothe your skin. Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness, itching, and inflammation.

Apply a generous amount of aloe vera gel to the affected area and let it absorb into your skin.

7. Choose Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics

The clothes you wear can also impact your skin’s sensitivity during the summer. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon that allow your skin to breathe and stay cool.

Avoid synthetic materials like polyester, which can trap heat and sweat against your skin, exacerbating irritation and inflammation.

8. Protect Your Eyes

Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can also damage the delicate skin around your eyes, leading to wrinkles, dark circles, and other signs of aging.

Invest in a pair of high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays and wear them whenever you’re outside. You can also apply a lightweight, mineral-based eye cream that contains SPF to protect your skin from further damage.

9. Be Mindful of Chlorine and Salt Water

If you’re spending time in a pool or the ocean, be mindful of the chlorine and salt water, which can both be harsh on sensitive skin.

Rinse off with fresh water after you swim to remove any residual chlorine or salt, and apply a lightweight moisturizer to help soothe and protect your skin.