As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, our skincare routines need a little extra attention to keep up with the seasonal changes. Summer brings its own set of challenges for our skin, from increased sun exposure to higher humidity levels. To help you navigate this season flawlessly, let's dive into the five worst summer skin care mistakes and how you can fix them: 

Summer Skin Care Mistakes & Tips

1. Start The Morning With Sunscreen, Even if it's Cloudy

UV exposure ages your skin faster than anything else setting off a cascade of free radicals that lead to age spots, wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Perhaps the most crucial mistake people make in summer is not prioritizing sunscreen. UV rays are strongest during this time, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of skin cancer. Make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula for your face and a water-resistant one for outdoor activities.

Tip: Incorporate sunscreen into your daily routine by applying it generously after moisturizer and before makeup. Layer with Youth Defense Foundation and Flawless Matte Foundation to give an extra layer of protection and keep oily skin looking matte and fresh. Keep a travel-sized sunscreen in your bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day. Keep a travel-sized sunscreen in your bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day. 

2. Not Adjusting Your Skincare Routine

Your skin's needs change with the seasons, so sticking to the same skincare routine year-round may not be effective. Products that work well in winter may feel too heavy or greasy in summer, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.

Tip: Switch to lighter formulations such as gel-based cleansers, oil-free moisturizers, and gel serums like the Miracle Super Serum with fermented ginseng, and antioxidants to combat free radicals from increased sun exposure. 

3. Over-Exfoliating

Hot weather means more sweating, oil, and dead skin cells, therefore more opportunity for breakouts and impactions. Exfoliation smooths your skin by removing dead cells, but overdoing it can strip essential oils and disrupt your skin's barrier, especially in summer. This can lead to irritation, redness, and increased sun sensitivity.

Tip: Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times a week and choose the Ageless Super Serum Kit to promote cell turnover and collagen production. Other fruit enzymes or mild scrubs with round beads. Avoid harsh physical exfoliants, especially if you're spending a lot of time outdoors.

4. Picking at Sunburn and Post-Sun Care

Damage control is your top priority, despite your best efforts, you managed to get a sunburn. Though it’s tempting to peel flaking skin, don’t. The dead skin is still attached to living skin. When you pick off dead skin, you will create a painful wound that can lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation. 

Tip: Instead of picking and peeling your skin, soothe and heal it with aloe gel which is available at any pharmacy. 

5. Extra Hydration

Many people assume their skin is adequately hydrated in summer due to higher humidity levels, but air conditioning, sun exposure, and increased outdoor activities can actually dehydrate your skin. Lack of hydration can lead to dullness, fine lines, and an uneven complexion.

Tip: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within. Use a lighweight, hydrating moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture without feeling heavy. Consider using a facial mist throughout the day for a refreshing boost.