While we associate dry skin with cold winter weather, summer can be just as harsh on our sensitive bodies. Every season comes with unique environmental changes that we have to account for to stay healthy.
These changes aren’t limited to the warming weather, either. Our bodies change alongside the seasons! In winter, the low humidity pulls moisture from exposed areas like the face. In summer, researchers found that the skin produces more sebum 一 a waxy natural oil that moisturizes and protects the skin.
As the weather warms, pores and sensitivity increase. Even the skin’s pH balance changes, dropping slightly as temperatures rise. In short, a new season can turn a skincare routine upside down.
So how does summer lead to dryness, exactly? More importantly, what can we do to protect and nourish our delicate skin?
What causes dry skin in summer?
While environmental changes affect how our skin regulates itself, the impact isn’t always external. As a society, our habits change with the weather too. Some of the things we enjoy in winter can dry and irritate the skin in warmer mounts.
These are the main factors to look out for this coming summer.
- Sun damage
Sun damage is one of the leading causes of visible aging in skincare. That includes creating a dried-out appearance. Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays damages skin cells through UV radiation. But not all UV light is equal.
UVA is the one that creates oxidative stress, creating signs of premature aging on the skin’s surface. UVB is responsible for sunburn, inflammation, and irritation.
As the days get longer, we become more social. Summer creates more opportunities for UV exposure. We need to adjust how we move through the outdoors to protect our skin as a result.
- Excessive sweating
Our pores open up more in hotter weather, which is why they often appear larger in summer. This is to boost sweat and sebum production, important compounds that help keep us cool by removing excess heat.
While sebum is naturally-produced, excessive sweating can strip the skin surface of natural oils. Without waxy compounds like sebum, the skin can’t lock in moisture effectively, which makes dry skin more likely.
Even the way we clean off sweat can affect the skin’s ability to stay hydrated…
- Harsh chemicals
Scrubbing our faces with powerful cleansers can make it feel like we’re removing all the dirt and sweat that comes with a summer day. In truth, these harsh chemicals strip moisture away in the same way sweat does.
Without its protective barrier, the skin becomes more sensitive to irritants and, yes, drying out. Washing with excessively hot water can be just as harsh, although this is generally a winter problem. In summer, the big danger is the swimming pool!
Chlorinated water can remove sebum oil. This often leads to what experts call swimmer’s xerosis, a condition that causes dry and itchy skin.
- Dehydration
Finally, our bodies simply use up more water in hot environments. From boosting sweat and oil production to lowering our core temperature, we need water to regulate body heat. The problem comes when we don’t adjust our intake for summer.
Dehydration strains every regulatory system in our bodies. In summer, that means dry skin and overheating 一 an uncomfortable combination.
How to prevent dry skin this summer
With our skin vulnerable to so many factors in summer, the question remains: how do we protect ourselves? How do we care for our skin and give it the deep nourishment it deserves? Let’s take a look.
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Use a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid
When it comes to preventing dry skin in summer, the first rule is to moisturize! Specifically, get a moisturizer that has hyaluronic acid as a key ingredient. In fact, it couldn’t be easier! Our encapsulated hyaluronic acid face and neck cream rejuvenate skin with the exact compounds it needs in summer.
It’s paraben and cruelty-free, so it’s gentle on your face and the environment. Made with high-quality components, it’s the perfect product if you want to alleviate dry skin while reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
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Protect your skin from UV overexposure
When it comes to sun damage, prevention is better 一 and simpler 一 than cure. Wear sun-protective clothing to create a strong barrier that shades your skin. The natural lignins in unbleached cotton absorb UV light. Lightweight satins and silks reflect the radiation away from the skin.
Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you need to swap out your summer outfits for more layers. A wide-brimmed hat isn’t just a summer staple 一 it’s a stylish way to protect your face, neck, and shoulders outdoors!
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Be gentle when cleansing or exfoliating
The goal of every cleansing routine should be to leave skin feeling fresh, soft, and clean, but not irritated. Opt for an exfoliant like lactic acid, which can clean pores without flushing your skin’s natural protective barrier.
If you’re trying a new cleanser or exfoliant, start slow and see how your skin reacts. Exfoliating once every 7 days or so will clear your skin and give it enough time to recover between sessions. As you get more comfortable, you can start doing this more frequently, adjusting as needed.
Whatever product you opt for, pay attention to the temperature of your water too. Hot water can irritate the skin during and after a cleansing routine, leaving it sensitive instead of nourished. Only cleanse with lukewarm water for the best effects.
And remember 一 rub the skin with the pads of your fingers using a circular motion!
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Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water sounds simple enough, but it’s a habit everyone should form, especially in summer. By keeping your body hydrated, you provide it with the moisture it needs for healthy cell function and glowing skin.
The recommended daily intake will vary per person. Depending on where you are, you may want an extra glass to account for a hotter, drier climate. The most important thing is to pay attention to your body and respond accordingly.
Preventing dry skin couldn’t be easier this summer
Keeping your skin moisturized starts with understanding its needs and adjusting to meet them. Our Hygieia face cream with hyaluronic acid is your best skincare companion this summer. It doesn’t just restore smooth, supple skin on the surface, it’s deeply nourishing for that day-long glow!