Summer is a great time to be outdoors and reconnect with friends and family, but those with sensitive skin may find this time of year uncomfortable due to skin irritation, dry skin, acne breakouts, and eczema flareups. Elizabeth Mullans, M.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist at Uptown Dermatology shares her advice on how to help alleviate and avoid skin irritation during the warmer months so people can enjoy their summer blissfully.
“People are excited to get back out there and enjoy vacations and summer activities, but it is important to ensure that you continue to protect your skin from harsh elements like sun exposure and dry weather conditions. If you have sensitive skin, it is always a good idea to check the ingredients of the products you are using and avoid skin irritants.”
Dr. Mullans recommends the following tips for all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin:
Identify your triggers
Skin sensitivity varies for each person and can be triggered by an ingredient, environmental factors, or a larger skin condition. The first step is to identify what triggers your skin sensitivities and to avoid those ingredients and stimulants. A few of the common irritants to look out for in products are fragrances, dyes, and preservatives like parabens—oftentimes they can be hidden in beauty products, moisturizers, or washes.
Limit sun exposure
The sun’s peak UV hours are between 10 am to 4 pm, so make sure to avoid extended time in the sun during this window. If you find yourself out there longer than usual, make sure to hide under a tree or hideaway in a chic sun hat like Lola Hats. If you’re concerned that you might not be getting enough vitamin D since you’re limiting hours in the sun, try a supplement like vitafusion D3 gummy vitamins to help provide the recommended daily intake. Vitamin D helps with bone, teeth, and immune support, so make sure to get at least 600 IU.
Wash wisely
If 2020 taught us anything, it’s to maintain good hygiene year-round. While it’s important to wash your face and body thoroughly at night to remove sweat and impurities gathered throughout the day, be mindful of soaps and opt for one that is fragrance-free, like Vanicream Gentle Body Wash. As you transition into a summer wardrobe to include lightweight fabrics, be sure to wash clothes, bathing suits, and cloth face masks with a hypoallergenic laundry detergent like Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin, Free & Clear, which is specifically formulated for sensitive skin and dermatologist-tested. Not to mention, it’s rated 100% SkinSAFE since the detergent does not contain the topmost recognized allergens!
Switch Up Your Skincare Routine
As June is also Acne Awareness month, a summer-friendly skin care routine that caters to sensitivities is the foundation for acne-free, glowing skin! Prep your skin with lightweight products that have minimal ingredients, like La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Soothing Repair Moisturizer or Cocokind’s Rosewater facial toner. Be sure to also protect yourself from sun damage and harmful UV rays by using sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide with an SPF of 15 or higher. Two great options are Mad Rabbit Defend – Tattoo Sunscreen and Supergoop! Poof Part Powder Scalp Sunscreen Powder
Stay Hydrated
With higher levels of heat and humidity, your skin is prone to dehydration just like the rest of the body, thus disrupting the skin’s moisture barrier since it cannot protect itself from external stressors. Drinking water and fruit juices help keep your body hydrated, assists with carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells, and flushes bacteria from the bladder.
“Caring for sensitive skin is a learning process, but can be alleviated by implementing simple, manageable changes to your daily routine. Educate yourself on what works for your skin, and don’t overthink it,” adds Dr. Mullans.
