Summer is a pore-clogger. What do we mean by that? Hot, sweaty skin is like a magnet for dirt, oil, sunscreen, pollution and so much more. Everything absorbs deep into the pores, compromising not only pore size (and the potential for breakouts), but also the integrity of your skin—think skin barrier and collagen breakdown.
While summer is the most carefree season and the time when we often abandon routine (including skincare), some products are non-negotiable. Here, Dr. Koo shares her summer skincare tips—the products to have at-the-ready so you can breeze through summer flawlessly.
DR. KOOS 4 SUMMER SKINCARE TIPS
Summer skincare tip #1: Invest in a quality cleanser
Warmer temperatures and higher humidity levels in the summer can lead to increased sweat and oil production on your skin. And you know what that means: clogged pores. Pollutants like dust pollen, air quality (especially if you live in a city) all increase during the summer and accumulate on your skin. Throw in sticky SPF and it’s clear you need a super cleanser. Choose a cleanser that effectively purifies pores or one that provides a gentle exfoliation to help remove build up from the skin’s surface. Your skin will thank you.
Summer skincare tip #2: Use a skin-balancing hydrator
Skin can be extremely fickle in the summer. Even if you don’t have oily skin, oftentimes you may experience a slight increase in oil production. Your best bet, no matter your skin type, is to look for a moisturizer that’s lightweight, quick absorbing and balances—it restores equilibrium to the skin by addressing both dryness and oil production. Essentially, it hydrates where needed while maintaining skin’s natural oil production.
Summer skincare tip #3: Apply a vitamin C serum every morning
Vitamin C is essential all year long, but it’s even more important during the summer. This multi-tasking vitamin prevents hyperpigmentation, improves fine lines, and can help with collagen production. But, most importantly, it offers serious antioxidant protection—a must in the hot, sticky, polluted months of summer.
Keep in mind that not all vitamin C products are created equal. You’ll want a product that contains Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, which is the purest, most potent, and most easily absorbed vitamin C. Using a vitamin C serum also plays very well with your sunblock. Apply it under your sunscreen to significantly enhance your protection from the sun and reduce UVA and UVB damage.
Summer skincare tip #4: Myst away the prickles
Have you ever experienced a prickly sensation on your skin in the summer? That’s the feeling of skin becoming irritated and overheated. It can be downright uncomfortable and eventually turn you red in the face—and body. Cool showers, breathable clothing and hydration (keeping skin adequately moisturized) are a few ways you can prevent this spiky sensation. But if you find yourself in the middle of a prickle session, a few sprays to the skin with a hyaluronic acid hydration mist should do the trick.
