Tips From a Dermatologist on Summer on the Best Summer Skincare Routine

Taking care of your skin with a thoughtful and gentle skincare routine during the summer is not only important for preventing signs of aging, like dark spots and fine lines, but is also key for reducing your risk of skin cancer. 

We sat down with Dr. Lingam, one of the board-certified providers at the Center for Surgical Dermatology, to get her top tips on how to build the best summer skincare routine for a glowing, healthy complexion. 

 

Summer Skincare FAQs

What are your top summer skincare tips for a glowing, healthy complexion? 

When it comes to summer skincare, Dr. Lingam told us she has several expert tips for keeping your skin healthy and glowing! These include: 

1. Always wear sunscreen (SPF 30) and be sure to apply approximately 30 minutes before heading outdoors. Also, it is important to reapply sunscreen every 1-2 hours to stay protected throughout the day, especially during the peak sunlight hours (12-4 PM).
2. Moisturize the skin and drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. Not only does water keep your overall body hydrated, it keeps your skin hydrated, too. 
3. Gently exfoliate the skin with the regular use of  products containing alpha/beta hydroxy acids. 
4. Use a Vitamin C serum, which serves as an antioxidant to reduce oxidative damage resulting from long-term sun exposure.
5. Avoid the use of tanning beds; use self tanners if you want to achieve a healthy glow during the summer months. 

 

Should I switch products during the summer compared to winter? 

While your skincare routine won’t need a complete overhaul, Dr. Lingam told us there are a few changes she makes to her daily skincare routine to adapt to the warmer season. 

“In the summer, I use a more lightweight moisturizer, generally one that is oil-free and non-comedogenic. Also, use of a foaming cleanser. Many tend to use a hydrating cleanser in the winter months, which is to help combat the dryer, colder air during that time of year.”

She also mentioned that some individuals may want to limit the use of topical retinoids, which can make the skin slightly more sensitive to the sun due to its exfoliating properties. Topical retinoids can be used in the spring and summer months, as long as you wear and reapply sunscreen and not overexpose your skin to the sun. Retinoids are effective at evening out irregular pigmentation, repairing sun damage, and stimulating collagen production.

 

Is sunscreen really that important for healthy skin? 

This is a common question many of our doctors get at the Center for Surgical Dermatology. Dr. Lingam gave us her expert answer. 

“100% yes! Sunscreens help to prevent premature signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. They also decrease the development of discoloration, like sunspots and dark spots, as a result of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (e.g. acne marks). More importantly, regular sunscreen use reduces the risk of developing skin cancers.”

 

Should exfoliation be used in a summer skincare routine? 

Exfoliation often plays a role in many individual’s skincare routines, but should it be used during the summer months when your skin may be more sensitive due to the sun? 

Dr. Lingam told us, “exfoliation is essential to glowing skin, as it helps to remove pore-clogging impurities, eliminates dulling dead skin cells, reduces discoloration, and prevents breakouts.”

Case in point: keep using your exfoliation products during the summer! However, depending on your individual type of skin, you may want to reduce your exfoliation frequency to one to two times per week. 

 

How can I prevent acne during the summer? 

During the summer months, acne can worsen due to increased oil production and excessive sweating which can lead to clogging of pores. In addition, regular use of thick sunscreens can further exacerbate breakouts. 

Dr. Lingam shared with us her top tips on how to prevent acne during the summer: 

• Avoid the use of heavy lotions or creams to moisturize the skin.
• Use a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide face and body wash daily.
• Use a topical retinoid to help with skin exfoliation. 
• Be sure to wash acne-prone skin twice a day, especially after working out or being outdoors after excessive sweating. 

 

Should I moisturize even if I don’t have dry skin in the summer? 

Dr. Lingam explained, “it is important to moisturize the skin even in the summer to keep the skin well hydrated. Use lighter lotions rather than heavy creams, which are most often used in the winter months.” 

 

What is your go-to summer skincare regimen? 

As an experienced dermatologist, we asked Dr. Lingam what her personal summer skincare regimen included. 

She told us, “In the morning, I start with a foaming cleanser to wash the face, then apply a topical vitamin C serum, anti-aging eye cream, and sunscreen with SPF 30. If needed, I’ll then use lightweight makeup that doesn’t clog my pores or irritate my skin. 

“My evening routine consists of using a foaming cleanser to wash the face and remove all the impurities from the day. Then, I’ll apply a topical retinoid, anti-aging eye cream, and nighttime lightweight moisturizer to keep my skin hydrated and glowing.” 

 

Schedule a Skin Care Consultation with Our Experienced Providers 

Ready to achieve your best skin yet? During a skin care consultation, you’ll meet with one of our board-certified dermatologists or licensed aesthetician to discuss your skin concerns and goals. 

After a thorough discussion of your concerns and evaluation by our providers, our staff will offer specific skincare routine recommendations to improve the tone, texture, overall appearance and health of your skin. We’re here to help you love the skin you’re in. Contact us today to schedule your skin care consultation. 

 

Dermatologist-Recommended Skincare at the Center for Surgical Dermatology 

Center of Surgical Dermatology is the largest medical and surgical skin treatment and wellness facility in Central Ohio. Since 2007, our board-certified dermatologists, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons, and caring professional staff have provided patients with effective skincare treatments they can trust in an environment second to none. Learn more about our state-of-the-art Dermatology Center before booking your appointment today.