As the seasons change, so should our every day skincare routines. After all, we’re not wearing sweaters and thick coats anymore, and our skin is seeing a lot more exposure to the sun. When the weather is cooler we don’t have to worry as much about potential damage caused by UV Rays, or excess oil clogging our pores. It’s a completely different story when it comes to the summer however, which means it’s time to change up our skincare routine for a few months. This will allow us to maintain healthy skin year round. Here are a few ways to transition your skincare routine for the summer.

Sun Protection

The first thing to think about, not to mention the most obvious, is finding ways to protect ourselves from the sun. While sun exposure can give us a great looking summer glow, it can also age our skin and increase the risk of cancer due to UV Rays. They can damage our skin cells by penetrating deep into the skin and causing collagen break down. Collagen is a protein that keeps our skin firm, and without it our skin shows signs of aging such as lines, wrinkles and dryness. The easiest thing we can do to prevent this is to wear sunscreen. While UV rays are around us even in the winter, we are generally more covered up and it’s not as much of a concern. During the summer however much more of our body is exposed, and need to make sure to apply sunscreen generously. You also need to keep in mind that you will need to reapply sunscreen every two hours in order for it to be effective.

One product that you may want to consider using is the Aveeno® Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer SFP 30. It’s a sun screen and moisturizer in one, which reduces the look of dark spots on dull, uneven skin, and protects you from the sun. It’s even wearable under makeup.

Cleansing and Exfoliating

The heat of the summer also increases sweat production which can make our skin oilier and cause acne breakouts. Properly cleansing and exfoliating can help though. During the summer we need to increase the frequency of cleansing and exfoliating, at least twice a day, in order to keep our skin healthy and glowing. This will help us keep our excess oil production under control. The best thing you can do is to pay close attention to your skin, and give it the amount of attention it needs. There is such a thing as over-exfoliating too, which can damage your skin barrier, so make sure to keep it under control.

Desert Essence has several new products formulated with Manuka Oil that can help. Their Thoroughly Clean Deep Pore Cleanser combines the soothing and moisturizing benefits of Manuka Oil and Tea Tree Oil. It’s delicate enough for sensitive skin, yet powerful enough for problem skin. Their Exfoliating Manuka Oil and Tea Tree Oil Soap Bar exfoliates, cleanses, and soothes while also balancing bacteria in a multi-tasking, textured bar, which is why you may want it in the shower with you for your daily cleansing.

Hydration and Moisture

You might think that the extra oil your body produces during the summer will be enough to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized, but you’d be wrong. Skipping moisturizer is not recommended, even if you sweat a lot. The best type of moisturizer you can get is a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. This means it won’t cause acne.