How to Prevent Summer Dryness of Your Skin
Dry skin doesn’t seem like a summer problem, yet here we are. It can happen to anyone, whether it’s the result of sun damage or you just have dry skin to begin with. Here’s what you need to know about preventing dry skin this summer.
Skip the Hot Showers
Taking a hot shower during the summer months might not seem like something you want to do all the time, but they can be relaxing! If you have dry skin, though, it’s probably better to skip out on the hot showers. Water that’s too hot can strip your skin of natural oils and lubricants. And if your skin is already on the dry side, you really can’t afford to part with any more of those natural oils your body produces to keep your skin supple and fight off wrinkles. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean you have to take icy cold showers all summer long. Instead of steaming up the bathroom, consider taking lukewarm showers and shortening your shower time a little bit. Though if you do want to take a cool shower, it can probably provide some relief from the heat!
Moisturize Every Day
One of the most important steps in your skin care routine if you have dry skin is moisturizing. When it’s warm outside, it can feel like you don’t need to moisturize as often because there’s more moisture in the air. That being said, your skin isn’t going to magically absorb moisture from the air without the aid of the humectants present in most moisturizers. When you have dry skin, it’s important that you utilize thicker moisturizers that are oil-based, as well. You might be able to use a lighter moisturizer during the summer, but that doesn’t mean you can go without. In addition, try to use a moisturizer with SPF in it. Look for moisturizers with at least SPF 30 in them for optimal protection. There’s nothing fun about adding sun damaged skin to your already dry complexion.
Be Careful Around the Pool
Swimming is one of the best activities to participate in during the summer months. Unfortunately, all that chlorine can really dry out your skin. Chlorine, like hot water, strips away all of your skin’s natural oils and lubricants, which is bad news for your dry skin. If you want to prevent this from happening, there are solutions! One of the first things you can do is apply a pre-swimming lotion that’s specifically designed to block the effects of chlorine on your skin. In addition, it’s important that you remember to shower off after you’ve been in the pool. Whether it’s a quick wash with the hose or hopping into the shower to scrub up, the water can help wash away any residual chlorine from your body and protect your skin from getting too dry.
When you’re dealing with dry skin over the summer months, it can feel impossible to avoid making it worse. If you have questions about your dry skin and want to explore cosmetic dermatology services, set up an appointment at North Pacific Dermatology today.