In order to protect against the harmful effects of the sun, it is necessary to perform skin care in the summer months. Exposure to sunlight can cause symptoms such as blemishing, drying, and premature aging on the skin. For this reason, a regular skin care routine should be followed in the summer season. Using sunscreen, applying moisturizers, and drinking plenty of water are the fundamental steps to protecting your skin in the summer. Additionally, balanced nutrition and the use of appropriate cosmetic products help maintain healthy skin throughout the summer.
What Are the Effects of the Sun on the Skin?
The short-term effects of sunlight on skin health include redness and burns on the skin, while in the long term, it may lead to more serious problems. The primary reason for this is the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays can cause photoaging in the skin. Photoaging can lead to issues such as wrinkles due to the appearance of early aging signs. Additionally, these rays may cause hyperpigmentation, meaning they can trigger the formation of skin spots. UVB rays also contribute to collagen loss, leading to reduced skin elasticity.
Uncontrolled exposure of the skin to sunlight can increase the risk of skin cancer. Prolonged sun exposure may increase the risk of developing a type of aggressive skin cancer known as melanoma in sensitive skin types.
In the summer months, sunscreen should be used constantly, not only when sunbathing but also in daily life. Sunscreens protect the skin against UV rays with their SPF content and thus safeguard skin health in the long term. Hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing can also provide protection against the harmful effects of the sun.
Changes in the Skin Barrier During Summer
In hot weather, the skin responds differently than usual. During this period, sweating and sebum production increase. Due to rising temperature and humidity, pores clog more easily, potentially accelerating acne formation. The increased oiliness, concentrated especially on the forehead, nose, and chin areas, known as the T-zone, might become more prominent.
Water loss in the skin also increases. High temperatures and sunlight may cause the skin to dry, flake, and become sensitive. Thus, using moisturizers is crucial to maintaining the skin's moisture balance.
There is an increased sensitivity to external factors under hot weather conditions. Elements such as sunlight, wind, and pool/sea water can challenge the skin barrier and cause irritation. Therefore, along with the regular use of products like sunscreen, using protective equipment like hats and sunglasses when spending extended time outdoors is recommended.
The skin care routine should be adjusted to the season during the summer months, and necessary care can be performed by using suitable cleansers, tonics, and moisturizers for your skin. Additionally, exfoliating once a week to get rid of dead skin can help the skin appear vibrant and radiant.
What Are the Basic Steps of Skin Care for Summer?
The fundamental rule in skin care is regularity, using products suitable for the skin type, and analyzing the skin type. Here is the daily skin care order for summer:
Morning Routine:
-
Cleansing: The face should be washed with a gentle cleanser suitable for the skin type.
-
Tonic: A toner that tightens pores and balances the skin should be preferred.
-
Serum: Antioxidant serums like vitamin C provide support against the sun.
-
Moisturizer: A water-based, light moisturizer should be applied.
-
Sunscreen: A sunscreen with at least SPF 30 should be applied and renewed throughout the day.
Evening Routine:
-
Cleansing: A two-step cleansing to remove all residues on the skin surface should be performed.
-
Tonic: It should be used to soothe and balance the skin.
-
Serum: Serums containing niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or retinol can be preferred.
-
Moisturizer: A night moisturizer that repairs the skin barrier should be used.
-
Eye Cream: Special products for the delicate tissue around the eyes are recommended.
How to Care for Oily Skin in the Summer?
It is quite common for oily and combination skin to quickly get oily and for acne formation to increase. Thus, the correct skin care routine can prevent these problems.
Water-based and non-comedogenic products should be preferred. These types of products hydrate the skin without clogging the pores, thus helping the skin to become more balanced.
Applying a clay mask 1-2 times a week can aid in deep cleansing of the skin. Clay masks cleanse pores by absorbing excess oil and make the skin appear vibrant.
Ingredients that help regulate the oil balance in the skin include salicylic acid and niacinamide. These ingredients help make the skin appear matte and healthy by balancing oil production.
When applying makeup, heavy makeup products and oil-based products should be avoided.
By integrating all these measures, the skin will attain a matte, clean, and healthy appearance.
Common Mistakes in Using Sunscreen
The use of sunscreen is indispensable in summer care. However, many people can make mistakes here:
-
SPF selection: At least SPF 30 is recommended for daily use. SPF 50 should be chosen for the sea, pool, or outdoor settings.
-
Renewal frequency: It should be reapplied every 2-3 hours, especially after swimming and sweating.
-
Application amount: Applying a small amount reduces protection. Approximately a teaspoon should be applied for the face.
-
Application to the entire face: Not only cheeks and forehead but also ears, neck, and sides of the nose should be protected.
Home Skin Care: Natural and Practical Applications
Various methods are available for performing skin care at home using natural ingredients, each having different benefits.
Aloe Vera gel is known to soothe post-sun irritation and moisturize the skin. With its anti-inflammatory properties, Aloe Vera can reduce redness and aid cell regeneration.
A cucumber mask can soothe the skin and reduce redness. The water content in cucumber hydrates the skin, while vitamins and minerals can bring vitality to the skin.
A green tea compress can protect the skin with its antioxidant effect. The antioxidants in green tea protect the skin against free radicals, reducing signs of aging and helping the skin remain youthful. However, before application, it should be tested to ensure it does not develop an allergy on the skin.
Moreover, consuming plenty of water is also important for skin health. Water cleanses the body and maintains the skin's moisture balance. It can also help eliminate toxins, making the skin appear more radiant and healthy.
Long-Term Benefits of Summer Skin Care
Proper and regular summer care has many positive effects on the skin. One of the most noticeable benefits of this care is the reduction in the formation of spots and wrinkles. When the skin is regularly cared for, it can support a healthier and more youthful appearance, despite being exposed to the sun's harmful effects.
Strengthening of the skin barrier is another important result of summer skin care. A strong skin barrier acts as a protective shield against external factors and prevents moisture loss. Thus, the skin maintains its elasticity, offering a more vibrant and firm appearance.
When proper care is applied in the summer months, the skin becomes healthier, more radiant, and has an even tone. Exposure to sunlight can cause the skin to become dull or discolored. However, regular care minimizes these effects, resulting in a brighter appearance.
Applying proper skin care in the summer can delay signs of skin aging. The sun's UV rays can lead to premature skin aging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basic principle of skin care in the summer months?
Summer skin care should be built on three basic principles: cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. When these steps are regularly applied, the skin is not only relieved in the short term but also prevents problems such as spots, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity in the long term.
What SPF should sunscreen have and how often should it be renewed?
A minimum SPF 30 protection factor is recommended for daily use; SPF 50 should be chosen if staying outside for long periods. Sunscreen should certainly be renewed every 2-3 hours, especially after sweating, swimming, or wiping.
Which products should be chosen for oily skin in the summer?
Non-comedogenic, water-based, and light formula products should be used for oily skin. Serums containing salicylic acid and niacinamide help maintain oil balance and prevent acne formation.
What ingredients can be used in natural home skin care?
Natural ingredients such as aloe vera, cucumber, green tea, and yogurt are highly effective for soothing and cooling the skin in the summer months. Additionally, these natural ingredients can help reduce redness and irritation caused by sun exposure.