Transitioning Your Summer Skin

While summer is a great time to relax and enjoy the sunshine, many of us forget that our skin needs special attention as we transition from one season to another. Oily skin, sunspots, wrinkles, and breakouts are typical challenges that skin experiences during the warmer months. Achieving that heavily sought-after “summer glow” while keeping your skin refreshed and rejuvenated, requires a shift in your skincare routine. Here are some of the best skin care tips for summer.

• Exfoliate: Including exfoliation in your skincare routine is a great way to help your skin overcome the lasting dryness and flaking caused by the colder months of the year. Whether it's a microexfoliation or a chemical peel, exfoliating at least once a week will brighten up your skin and help clear clogged pores. Exfoliating before bed is key, as this will remove any leftover makeup or dirt from the day, while allowing your skin more time to recover overnight. However, if you tend to have oily skin, exfoliating in the morning may be best. No matter which timing you choose, be sure to follow your exfoliation with a moisturizer to prevent irritation and keep your skin from re-drying out.

• Moisturize: During the summer, many neglect moisturizing thinking it will add to oily skin. However, moisturizer will help hydrate and refresh your skin, which is part of what gives you a natural summer glow. To help keep your skin's oil production in balance while restoring your skin’s barrier, use a light moisturizer filled with humectants (such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin) and emollients (such as Vitamin e and rosehip oil).

• Upgrade Your SPF Protection: It’s no secret that the summertime usually means more sun exposure – and ultimately, more exposure to UV rays that can damage your skin. Upgrading your SPF protection will help protect your skin from wrinkles, fine lines, sunspots, and most importantly, skin cancer. SPF or sun protection factor is commonly accompanied by a number. That number indicates the cream's level of protection against sunburn. For maximum protection, use sunscreens that offer SPF 30 or higher, water resistance, and broad-spectrum protection. These factors will help provide your skin strong protection while you enjoy your time in the sun.

• Specialized Treatments: If there is ever a time to give your skin extra care, it’s during the summer. Making facials part of your regular skin care routine will help keep your skin hydrated and healthy all season. At Massage Heights, our licensed skin therapists analyze each guests’ skin to create customized facials that meet their unique needs. Massage Heights’ deep cleansing techniques target clogged pores, exfoliate skin, and use cooling vitamin serums to restore moisture while respecting your skin’s natural conditions. Schedule a facial at your local Massage Heights Retreat to nourish and protect your skin against summer conditions while still enjoying all of your favorite outdoor activities.