Just when we think our skin is ‘out of the woods’ as soon as the first rays of sunshine and increase in temperatures arrive, removing all the harshness our skin endures during those merciless winter days, we come upon an entirely new set of problems that need tending to. Today we’ll be exploring some of the most common pesky issues which hinder that coveted natural radiance and glow and help you remove the obstacles standing between you and a flawless complexion.
A Never-Ending Battle
Most of us face the annoying acne breakouts during the course of the entire year. During winter they’re caused by heavy foundations that clog the pores, as well as the dead skin cells that are another ‘lovely’ byproduct of winter. During summer, we have other culprits, such as sweat (which is inevitable and even more prominent for those who are physically active). Breaking out a good sweat is great for detoxing your body, but it can irritate the skin severely and lead to breakouts, especially when it mixes with your natural oils and external pollutants. The best way to prevent this is to a) find a great skincare line for acne-prone skin, b) dab the sweat instead of wiping it off (as this can also irritate the skin), and remove sweaty clothes as soon as you can.
The Opposite Issue
Exposure to sun, spending a great deal of time under the shower, at the beach or the pool can leave your skin completely dehydrated, and sometimes there is no amount of outdoor humidity that can be of help. This is where a great broad spectrum sunblock steps onto the stage – it protects you from the dangerous UV rays and also creates a barrier between your skin and the external pollutants that suck the life out of your skin. In addition to that, turn to a mighty serum that will deliver powerful active ingredients to keep the skin protected, and then seal the deal with a light yet nourishing moisturizer – the CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel totally fits the bill.
Take It Easy
Whether you’re battling summertime dry or oily skin, the result is either clogged pores (or subsequent acne) or dry and itchy skin. This is why, aside from proper skin care products, you need to bench your winter makeup go-to’s and turn to a light and nourishing foundation, which will give you that much-wanted radiance without clogging the pores. Do your best to keep your makeup routine minimal and go easy with concealer and powders. Let the skin breathe, and don’t smother it with full-coverage products and techniques such as baking. Trust us, you don’t need them during summer – the more makeup, the more melting, and irritation.
Oh, The Dread
Heat and humidity may sound great in theory, but they are the number one culprits of one of the most uncomfortable skincare issues – rashes. Hot and humid weather is the high time for contracting heat rashes. The sweat tends to get trapped in the skin folds and under the skin ‘thanks’ to the clogged sweat ducts, which in turn leads to heat rashes that manifest as small, itchy bumps and sometimes full-on blisters. This is something that usually goes away on its own, but while it’s there the best thing you can do is avoid heavy body lotions and oils that will just add salt to the wound. Wear oversized breathable clothing made from pure cotton and other natural fabrics, and if that doesn’t do the trick, you are highly advised to pay your dermatologist a visit and find out whether you have a yeast infection that needs professional medical attention.
It Happens to the Best of Us
There are times when, no matter how generously you slather on your sunblock, you still burn, whether at the pool or the beach. Some people simply spend too much time in the sun while others have the misfortune of burning easily. If, despite all precautions, this happens to you, get out of the sun immediately and go find a hydrocortisone ointment. It won’t give you instant relief, but in a couple of hours, you should start to feel much better as the ointment soothes the skin. Keep your hands off the peeling skin or even possible blisters – let them heal on their own. Aside from the ointment, make sure you put your go-to gentle *fragrance-free* moisturizer in the fridge and apply generously to help heal your poor burnt skin easier.
Unwanted Guests
Another “charming” side effect of the glorious summer is the flocking of all kinds of pests – mosquitoes, bees, and even spiders that can latch onto and bite hard. Now, physician-approved mosquito repellants are always here for you, but we know those little pests have a way of finding at least one unprotected spot and aim right at it. So, in case of mosquitos still get to you, there are a few home remedies you can turn to. The first one is an ice pack wrapped in a towel or a cold-compress that will soothe the skin and itching, and the second is a simple mixture of baking soda and water. Create a paste, apply to the bitten area, and wait for the home remedy to do its magic.
Yes, fun in the sun is fun, but we tend to be oblivious to the fact that summer isn’t all peaches and cream. So, try to stay safe, protected, and well-nourished so you don’t spend this amazing season constantly healing one wound after another.
Guest Blogger
Mia Taylor is a fashion and beauty enthusiast from Sydney and writer for www.highstylife.com. She loves writing about her life experiences. Traveling and enjoying other cultures and their food with her husband is a big part of her life. She is always on the lookout for new trends in fashion and beauty and considers herself an expert when it comes to lifestyle tips.
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