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Summer Skincare: How to Beat Breakouts

summer-skincare

Photo credit: Getty Images

Between sweat, oily sunscreens and the harsh summer sun, your skin can take a beating during the warm weather months. So, how can you keep your complexion clear and stop breakouts before they begin?

Follow these five easy tips to keep your skin spot-free all summer long:

Use Oil-Free Sunscreen

So, you’re using sunscreen, fantastic! It’s great that you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. However, certain sunscreens can wreak havoc on your skin, particularly if it’s a slick solution. Opting for an SPF that has a gel base and contains ingredients like vitamin B3 will help to clear up acne while protecting against UV rays and preventing other pimples.

Never Sit in Sweat

Sweat that has sat too long on the surface of your skin can cause a breakout on both your body and face. To avoid clogged pores and unwanted pimples caused by sweat and dirt, it’s important to consider your clothing choices. Always choose moisture-wicking fabrics that will keep sweat off of your skin and shower as soon after your workout or outdoor activity as possible. You should also use an antibacterial soap that contains benzoyl peroxide to keep bacteria at bay.

Stick to a Cleansing Routine

To avoid the build-up of excess oil, set a cleansing routine and stick to it. Hot weather can send your pores into overdrive, producing more oil than you’re accustomed to. It’s important to cleanse your skin one to two times per day, preferably before bed. While it’s effective to wash away any oil or sweat in the summer, steer clear from over washing. That can dry skin out, causing more inflammation and blemishes.

Tone it Up

During the summer season, it’s essential to add toner to your skincare regiment. Why? When you’re out in the sun during the warm weather months, your skin can dry out, leaving behind dead skin cells. Those dead skin cells will sit and eventually clog your pores. Using a gentle yet detoxifying toner (look for one containing aloe and witch hazel) every morning and night will remove those cells, allowing your skin to reproduce new healthy cells faster.

Drink H2O

Looking for a free and effective way to keep your skin crystal clear all summer long? Hydrate often and don’t leave the house without a water bottle in hand. As the temperatures heat up and the humidity rises, it’s easy to become dehydrated and for your skin to dry out. Consuming your daily recommended dose of water (half a gallon) can rehydrate your cells, flush out toxins, soften your skin, and reduce puffiness and inflammation.

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