The Ultimate 2021 Summer Skincare Guide to Keep You Glowing

Summer is just around the corner, which means a few things: amazing weather, extra hours of sunlight, and the need for a major skincare routine switch-up. That’s right—a change in wardrobe isn’t the only thing that’s in order before summer starts. Your skin’s needs also shift depending on the season, and knowing how to properly accommodate and implement these key changes is up to you.

We’ve kept our recommendations simple because we know how quickly our skincare routines can pile up with multiple steps and products. While there are only a few small tweaks to make in your skincare routine, the results will leave you feeling protected, hydrated (but not oily), and full of confidence for your upcoming hot girl/boy/person summer.

How can I care for my skin in summer?

There are a few things that you can do to take care of your skin and overall health during the summer. Although we may not have control over how much the sun shines or how much we sweat when we step outside, we can adjust our daily lives to balance out the added intensity of a changing environment while still enjoying everything this season has to offer. 

• Limit sun exposure. Restricting the amount of sun you get is key in taking care of your skin and overall health during the summer and beyond. While this is good advice for all seasons, not just summer, the extra hours of sunlight means more exposure to the sun—which means more skin damage. Wear hats, sunglasses, and clothes that cover your body (without making you overheat) whenever possible. Incorporate days in your schedule for things you can do inside, like movie marathons or DIY craft days.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water should be part of your daily routine regardless of the season, but is even more essential this time of year. This is crucial, especially if you are going on outdoor excursions or plan on spending time outside where the heat can drain you. Make sure to get at least 8 glasses of water a day, as this will also help keep your skin hydrated. Note: While there is no scientific evidence to prove that drinking water keeps your skin hydrated, being severely dehydrated can lead to loss of skin elasticity. 
• Apply SPF religiously. If we could scream and shout it from every corner of the world, we would. Seriously. Applying a sunblock daily, multiple times throughout the day is incredibly important for your skin and overall body’s health. We will spare you from reading about all the effects that UV rays can have, which can include wrinkles, sun spots, and skin cancer… but you already know that.

What should I apply on my face in the summer?

Now that we’ve established a few things to keep in mind as you live your best life this summer, let’s dive into more specific adjustments you can make in your skincare routine to keep your skin flawless, glowing, and well-armored. 

Note: The following recommendations are in order of application.

• Lighter cleanser: Gentle and lightweight cleansers prevent your skin from being weighed down by heavier cleansers with oil or cream consistencies. This is even more relevant in the summer when your skin’s pores can become clogged as the sweat, heat, and oil can combine to create a weapon of acne-causing destruction. Keep it simple and light for this step.
• Vitamin C serum: If you’ve been on the fence about purchasing a Vitamin C serum, now is the time to pull the trigger. The antioxidant helps with a variety of skincare issues including fine lines, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and more! It’s also worth noting that serums like the Sdara Vitamin C Serum are more effective than other forms of Vitamin C, such as toners or creams. Apply a few drops to your face directly after cleansing and before applying your moisturizer.
• Lightweight moisturizer: Similarly, you’ll want to switch out your moisturizer for something lightweight and with a thinner application. If you have oily skin, you may be tempted to skip on moisturizer altogether thinking it will save you from additional oiliness. However, moisturizer helps reestablish the outermost layer of the skin and helps prevent dryness, itchiness and protects against pollutants. It’s also not a bad idea to invest in a dual-moisturizer that contains SPF in case you’re worried about clogging your pores with separate products.
• Copious amounts of sun block. Yes, it bears repeating twice in the same article because it’s arguably the most important step. You wouldn’t walk out of your home without any clothes on, and the same idea goes for sunscreen. After you’ve applied all your products, let them absorb and apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater. For mineral sunscreen, we recommend the Sdara Everyday Mineral Sunscreen with SPF 30. Mineral Sunscreens include ingredients such as Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide which act as physical barriers to harmful rays.