Digest This! The Importance of Taking Care of Your Skin in the Summer

During the summer, our skin is often working overtime. Between long days in the sun, chlorine from the pool, salt water and sand at the beach, increased sweat, bug bites, scrapes from outdoor adventures, and even the products we use to protect our skin, it's exposed to a lot more than usual.

Simply put, summer can be demanding on your skin. That's why this time of year is a great opportunity to be a little more intentional about caring for it. A few simple habits can go a long way in helping your skin stay healthy, comfortable, and ready for whatever adventures the season brings.

So, what exactly is your skin up against?

Sun Exposure

Sunshine is one of the best parts of summer, but spending more time outdoors also means more exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can reach your skin.

When your skin is exposed to too much UV radiation, it responds in a variety of normal ways, including redness and inflammation that can occur with sunburn. That's one reason why daily sun protection is encouraged, whether you're headed to the beach or simply running errands.

Water Isn't Always Hydrating

A day at the pool or beach may feel refreshing, but your skin has a different perspective.

Chlorine helps keep pools clean but doesn’t discriminate when it comes to the contents in the water, your skin included. Salt water on the other hand can leave the skin feeling dry after the water evaporates. Both can temporarily strip away some of your skin's natural surface oils, leaving it feeling tight or dry. Rinsing off after swimming and applying a moisturizer can help replenish moisture at the skin's surface.

Heat & Sweat

Sweating is one of your body's natural ways to regulate temperature. On hot summer days, however, increased sweating also means increased fluid loss.

Drinking enough water supports your body's normal functions, and staying hydrated is one of many habits that contributes to healthy-looking skin.

Everyday Adventures

Summer often means hiking, gardening, vacations, sports, and more time outdoors. While those activities are worth enjoying, they also increase the chances of minor cuts, scrapes, insect bites, and other everyday skin irritations.

Keeping skin clean and practicing good skin care habits can help support your skin's natural protective barrier.

Small Habits That Can Make a Difference

You don't need a complicated skin care routine to care for your skin this summer. Simple, consistent habits often go a long way.

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply according to the product directions.

• Drink water regularly, especially during hot weather and outdoor activities.

• Rinse off after swimming in chlorinated pools or salt water.

• Moisturize if your skin feels dry after time in the sun or water.

• Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a hat when spending extended time outdoors.

• Clean minor cuts and scrapes promptly using appropriate first aid practices.

Digest This!

Your skin is your body's largest organ. It serves as a protective barrier, helps regulate body temperature, and works around the clock to help keep the outside world where it belongs.

A little extra attention during the summer can help keep your skin looking and feeling its best while you enjoy everything the season has to offer.