Summertime brings many joys, but sometimes at the expense of proper and adequate skincare. Although skin-related concerns may seem more prevalent in winter – dry, cracked lips and face, for example – warm temperatures bring their own problems. If you want to avoid some of the common skincare mistakes this summer, read on.

NOT WEARING SUNSCREEN

This probably comes as no surprise, but wearing sunscreen is an important part of sun protection. While getting enough vitamin D through sunshine is absolutely beneficial (especially here in the Northeast), prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays can damage your skin. Ultraviolet rays can cause significant damage over time, not just by a sunburn. This in turn leads to skin conditions like fine lines, wrinkles, and sometimes even skin cancer. Proper sunscreen application – including reapplication after swimming or exercising – is a huge part of keeping your skin healthy.

FACE CLEANSING ROUTINE

With all of the sunscreen, bug repellant and even just sweat during the summer, your face can build up a lot of oils and residue. Although it may be tempting to go to bed without washing your face after a long day at the beach, try to avoid this. If needed, take a face wipe with you to the beach at the end of the day. That way, if you do forget, at least some of the impurities are taken care of. Without a consistent face cleansing routine, particularly in summer, you risk buildup of clogged pores, which can create breakouts and other irritation. You also may want to avoid oil-based cleansers during the summer months, especially if you have oily skin to begin with.

HAIR REMOVAL BEFORE A BEACH DAY

Finally, to prepare for beach days and summer outfits, hair removal is important to many people. However, it’s good to keep a few things in mind when it comes to hair removal and summer activities. While it may seem practical, avoid waxing, shaving, or undergoing laser hair removal the same day that you head to the beach. That’s because your skin can get irritated right after hair removal, which can be exacerbated by the sun and sand. This is especially true after laser hair removal. Laser hair removal is very effective and painless, but it’s recommended to avoid direct sun exposure for at least 24 hours after treatment. Otherwise, irritation and skin pigmentation changes can occur. You can absolutely plan for summer days with more than enough time to get the results you want and enjoy them too!

READY TO PREP FOR SUMMER?

Have some beach days planned? Need the right products for your skin? Want to get a head start on your hair removal treatments with the best laser technology? Call or request a consultation with Ascent Laser Aesthetics today!