Summer is already here, with some pretty severe heat waves ahead of us. Your skin is the primary protector against the damage caused by the sun, so you need to ensure it’s in its best shape. For that, the skincare you provide every day becomes very important. 

With that in mind, each season brings its own challenges which need to be addressed in a specific way. Many cancer diagnoses come after the summer months when the sun has done extensive damage. At Dr. Ariel Ostad’s office, we are committed to helping you take care of your skin in summer (and all the time!), ensuring you stay protected.

Understanding Summer Skin Challenges

Summertime challenges our skin in various ways, with UV rays and high temperatures leading to extensive damage. Skin hydration decreases due to heat and sweating, and the skin produces more sebum to compensate for the dryness. This can lead to more acne breakouts and skin sensitivity issues.

The UV index can go as high as 12 during the summer months in areas like New York, dealing significant damage to the skin. Spending your entire time indoors is not usually feasible, so learning how to care for skin in summer becomes essential to keep a healthy glow.

Steps for Summer Skincare

When learning how to care for skin in summer, people should know that a thorough routine can improve the skin barrier. For the most part, medical-grade skincare is recommended, as the concentration of active ingredients is higher in their case. Below are some routine tips that you should consider as summer comes around. 

• Use a Gentle Cleanser

During the summer, sweat and dirt build up on the skin. That said, as the skin tends to dry during summer, you should not strip the natural oils from it either. Gentle cleansing products like Dr. Ostad’s Pure Cream Cleanser can help moisturize the skin, especially if you have irritation-prone skin. 

• Focus on Antioxidant Serums

Antioxidants are necessary during summer to protect the skin from free radicals and sun damage. Products like the CEG + FERULIC complex can give the skin the oxidants you need, keeping wrinkles and fine lines at bay longer.  

• Get a Lightweight Moisturizer 

Your skin needs to breathe during summer, especially as you’ll likely be sweating a lot. If you are looking for ways to take care of sensitive skin in summer, a good idea would be to incorporate the Clear Moist product into your routine. This fragrance-free moisturizer can reduce inflammation and is perfect for combination and oily skin. 

• Sunblock Should Be Broad Spectrum

Sunblock is very important during summer, and the higher the SPF, the better. Go for broad-spectrum SPF, which can protect you against UVA and UVB rays. The Sun Shade Clear option can offer excellent protection, and if you also have imperfections to cover, consider going with the tinted version.

• Exfoliate Regularly

The skin gathers a lot of dead cells, which risk clogging your pores in the long run. As your skin is already sensitive enough due to the sun, you should keep the exfoliation as gentle as possible, once every week. Our clarifying cleanser can remove dead skin cells without damaging your complexion.

• Protect the Eyelids

Last but not least, your eyes must also be protected during summer, especially as the skin around them is more sensitive. For this, the Retinoid Eye+ cream can give you the nourishment you need. Sunglasses are also helpful to protect your eyes and the thinner skin around the eyes.

Get Your Skincare Up to Date!

With UV rays becoming stronger every day, giving your skin the care it deserves is essential. Exfoliate when you should, use the right moisturizer, and never forget about sunscreen. For more advice on how to care for skin in summer, feel free to contact Dr. Ariel Ostad. 

For more information about skincare and how to care for yourself during summer, contact Dr. Ariel Ostad at 212-517-7900. He can offer all the advice you need when choosing dermatologically approved skincare products. You can also fill out the online contact form, and we will contact you shortly.