I have been MIA I know...but I have a few updates for you at my Beverly Hills spot! You'll have to come by! Anyways...I hope your summer is going well, as it can be a challenging season when maintaining hydration. The combination of high temperatures, increased humidity, and exposure to UV rays can shift the skin's moisture levels. Understanding how these factors affect your skin and learning how to counteract them is essential for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin during the warmer months.
SIGNS OF DEHYDRATED SKIN IN SUMMER
Your skin will show several signs if it’s dehydrated, including:
- Dryness and Flakiness: Your skin may feel rough and develop dry patches.
- Dullness: Dehydrated skin often lacks its usual glow and can appear lifeless.
- Tightness: You might feel a tight, uncomfortable sensation, especially after washing your face.
- Increased Sensitivity: Dehydrated skin can become more prone to irritation and redness.
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Lack of moisture can make fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable.
FIVE MAIN REASONS FOR SKIN HYDRATION VARIATIONS IN SUMMER
- Sun Exposure: UV rays from the sun can damage the skin barrier, leading to increased water loss and dehydration. Prolonged exposure can also cause sunburn, further exacerbating dryness and irritation.
- Heat and Humidity: High temperatures can cause excessive sweating, which can lead to loss of moisture and essential oils from the skin. Paradoxically, while humidity can make the skin feel greasy, it can also contribute to dehydration by creating an imbalance in the skin’s moisture levels.
- Air Conditioning: While it provides relief from the heat, air conditioning can dry out the air and strip moisture from your skin, leading to a dehydrated and dull complexion.
- Chlorine and Saltwater: Swimming in pools and the ocean is common in summer, but chlorine and salt can dry out your skin, disrupting its natural moisture balance and causing irritation.
- Disruption to Skin Microbiome: Frequent exposure to environmental stressors such as UV rays, pollution, and harsh skincare products can disrupt the skin microbiome—the collection of beneficial bacteria on the skin's surface—leading to a compromised skin barrier and increased dehydration.
WAYS TO BOOST SKIN HYDRATION LEVELS
- Hydrate from Within: Drinking plenty of water is crucial for maintaining overall hydration. As well as maintaining optimal omega fatty acid levels! Increase your water intake if you’re spending a lot of time in the sun or sweating.
- Use Hydrating Skincare Products: Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe, which help attract and retain moisture in the skin. Using a hydrating serum followed by a moisturizer can provide an extra boost. I love the lighter weight versions of products for summer!
- Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day. Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses can also help minimize sun exposure.
- Avoid Hot Showers: Excessively hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm showers and use gentle, hydrating cleansers to avoid further drying out your skin.
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can help protect your skin from environmental damage. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are also beneficial for maintaining healthy skin.
Maintaining skin hydration during the summer requires a proactive and comprehensive approach. By understanding the signs of dehydrated skin, recognizing the factors that contribute to moisture loss, and implementing effective hydration strategies, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing all summer long. Remember, achieving optimal skin health isn't about relying on a single miracle product but embracing a holistic approach that includes lifestyle, diet, and proper skincare.