Is your skincare routine summer approved? If you are vigilant about maintaining superior sun protection, you may be able to continue your skincare routine, but if you plan to be out in the sun, please adjust your summer skincare routine accordingly.

• Always use an SPF of at least 30 or greater. Find a sunscreen with added zinc or titanium dioxide, this will provide an added layer of protection.

• Avoid sun exposure between the hours of 10AM-4PM as this time has the highest UV radiation. If you are going to be outside during these hours, you can take additional precautions by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

• Avoid heavy occlusive heavy creams, emollients, ointments, and oils with silicones or wax base. Heavier occlusives block water loss from the skin. With warmer temperatures and increased humidity, your skin usually does not require this hefty barrier. Heavier moisturizers are going to make your skin feel thick, sticky, oily and block your pores. It is best to let your skin breathe with lighter creams, gels or serums. 

• Avoid active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA’s – glycolic, lactic, mandelic, citric, malic, tartaric). AHAs are water soluble exfoliating acids that can make your skin more sensitive and vulnerable to sunburn. Oil soluble BHAs such as salicylic acid can be a good alternative to help gently exfoliate your skin and prevent/remove clogged pores. But because both AHAs and BHAs promote exfoliation of the skin, they can increase photosensitivity and your risk for sun damage. Make sure to wear sunscreen while using any of these products.

• Take caution with retinol, tretinoin and hydroquinone. These products make your skin extremely sensitive to the sun. You risk hyperpigmentation when using these products in the face of sun exposure. You may want to take a break from these products during the summer months if you plan to be active in the sun. If you want to continue the products during the summer, make sure to take extreme sun precautions when outside. Vitamin C serums and antioxidants are a good option to continue to use in the summer months while protecting your skin from UV rays.

• Take caution with resurfacing treatments. As discussed in my previous blog, if you are planning to spend a lot of time outside, it may be best to avoid deeper peels and resurfacing treatments in the summer. Focus on lighter peels and good skincare for the summer months and get ready for your more intense resurfacing treatments in the fall or winter. The ZO Stimulator Peel is a great option to maintain good skin health.

If you have questions about your summer skincare, call our office and set up a consultation with me, Layla Shadman, PA-C today.