The Ultimate Summer Skincare Checklist

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Skincare routines should be updated seasonally, and summer is no exception. With warmer weather already arriving, here are nine action items that you should have on your summer skincare checklist this year:

Use SPF regularly.

Wearing SPF every day is important no matter the season, but it’s especially critical during summer when daylight hours are longer. Choose anti-aging sunscreen with protection of at least SPF 30 and apply it to all exposed skin. When you are outside, apply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you are sweating or getting in and out of the water.

Seek out shade.

Beyond just applying sunscreen, you should also try to limit your sun exposure by seeking out shade whenever you are outside. Protect your skin with a wide-brimmed hat, as well as sunglasses, to slow down signs of premature aging such as wrinkles and fine lines! Try to avoid being in the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the rays are the strongest.

Tan the safe way.

If you love a bronze glow during the summer, with your skin frying while lying out in the sun or getting in a tanning bed, both methods expose your skin to UV radiation, and not even skincare for wrinkles can reverse all the effects. Instead, get a glow with tanning products that contain DHA, either at a spray tan salon or by using self-tanning products at home. You’ll get a totally safe glow in just a matter of hours, with no accidental sunburn or weird tan lines resulting.

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Lighten up your skincare routine.

Now that winter is over, it’s time to say goodbye to thick serums and heavy creams. Instead, focus on lightweight skincare products that will still deliver the benefits you need. Also look for products that offer multiple benefits so that you don’t have to layer on multiple products to get the same effects.

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Prioritize antioxidants.

Antioxidants help protect your skin from free radical damage caused by things like dirt and pollution. Since most people spend more time outside during the summer, it’s important to make sure that you are incorporating antioxidants into your anti-aging skincare routine. Try applying a vitamin C product like our Vitamin C Radiance treatment in the morning to protect your skin all day long.

Exfoliate the right amount.

Most people’s faces produce more oil in the summertime, which means that they can exfoliate more often than in the winter. However, it’s important not to go overboard and over-exfoliate your face in an effort to control the oil. This can damage the skin barrier and lead to more problems down the road. Instead, exfoliate with a quality polish a few times a week to keep your skin looking smooth yet nourished.

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Don’t stop moisturizing.

Many people are tempted to skip moisturizer during hot summer days. While we understand the inclination, this can upset the balance of your skin and hurt it in the long run. Instead of skipping your moisturizer altogether, choose a lightweight water or gel cream that will absorb instantly instead of sitting on your face. If you have dry skin, use a lightweight moisturizer during the day and a heavyweight moisturizer at night so that you don’t feel sticky during the day.

Redo your makeup routine.

In addition to lightening up your skincare routine, you should also try to pare back on your makeup routine. Summer heat and sweat can cause makeup to slide right off your face, so wearing fewer layers can keep you looking good for longer. For instance, instead of a full coverage foundation, you can try a tinted moisturizer, and you might be able to eliminate certain products such as highlighters altogether.

Keep showers short.

Some people shower more than once during summer to stay feeling fresh, which means that it’s essential to keep those showers as short as possible — no more than five minutes each. You should also turn the temperature down to lukewarm or even cool, since hot water is quite drying for the skin.

Ready to get a jumpstart on your summer skincare checklist? Browse the skincare travel kits available from Lancer Skincare so that you don’t have to worry about packing for your summer trips. You’ll get free shipping on whatever you order, no minimum required!