Warm weather never really leaves Southern California, but it’s all relative. As we enter spring and summer, the temperature is sure to go up, and the time spent outdoors will follow suit.
For Santa Monicans and others looking forward to the warmer weather on the way, appropriate skincare should be a top priority. After all, proper skincare regimens differ depending on the season. What works in winter doesn’t necessarily work in summer.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at some spring and summer skincare essentials:
Use gentle cleansers
As temperatures rise, people sweat more, and the accumulation of oils can clog pores. For many, the first instinct is to use granular scrubs and deep-cleaning face wash, but it’s better to stick with a gentle cleanser instead. That’s because sweat and body oil is on the surface. There’s no need to aggressively cleanse any deeper. Doing so can lead to further blemishes, irritation, and other unwelcome side effects.
Wear skin protection
Most folks think of sunscreen when they think of ways to protect their skin from the sun, but that’s not the only option. Hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves are other ways to limit the amount of skin damage you get from enjoying a sunny day. The good news is that you don’t have to keep these items on the entire time. Instead, make a habit of wearing maximum skin protection in transit and other periods of time where sun exposure is a by-product of circumstance rather than an intended source of enjoyment.
Keep sunscreen with you
It’s not uncommon for people to apply sunscreen at home then go the rest of the day without re-applying. The problem with this approach is that most sunscreens last for about two hours. That amount of time is reduced if the individual is getting into the water. Make a habit of bringing a small bottle of sunscreen with you throughout the day. That way, you’re able to re-apply every two hours.
Stick with lighter moisturizers
Things left out in the sun too long become brittle and faded. Knowing this, many folks think they need to apply layer after layer of heavy moisturizer to combat dry skin in the spring and summer. Doing so can do more harm than good. Lighter moisturizers will get the job done without clogging pores or dislodging sunscreen if they are applied after a gentle cleaning with our aforementioned cleaner and a soft applicator, like a konjac sponge.
Limit your beach time
Asking Santa Monicans to avoid going to the beach is like telling birds to avoid the sky. However, it’s a good idea to limit the amount of time you spend on the beach and in the ocean. While saltwater is not significantly damaging to human skin, the combination of saltwater, sun, and sand can cause irritation and severe dryness. Those with a history of eczema or similar skin conditions are especially prone to experience these negative consequences.
Who isn’t happy for the weather to get better? Even in sunny Southern California, the arrival of spring and summer is a welcome one. However, it’s imperative for Santa Monicans and others living in hotter parts of the country to take steps to take care of their skin. Doing so will ensure you have as much fun in the sun as possible without causing harm to yourself.
