How to Care for Your Skin in the Summer
Summer is time to rethink your skin-care regimen so you can greet the heat and stay zit-free. We asked New York City dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel how to keep your skin under control.
Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, it can still get oily during the summer. Try a neutral cleanser like Neutrogena Fresh Foaming Cleanser, which cleanses your skin without stripping away essential oils, advises Dr. Sobel. Always follow up with a moisturizing sunscreen, and be sure to reapply often throughout the day if you are outdoors.
Normal Skin
For normal skin, wash your face twice a day, morning and night. Use a mild facial cleanser with salicylic acid to cleanse and exfoliate the skin gently. Try the DDF Blemish Foaming Cleanser; it's mild, but will definitely keep your skin less oily without overdrying it. Always follow with sunscreen. For pesky breakthrough blemishes, try a sulfur mask treatment or spot treatment overnight.
Combination Skin
For combination skin, make sure you don't use products that strip your face of its natural oils, advises Sobel. Wash with a gentle, water-soluble cleanser that won't leave your skin dry or tight (try Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser). Never use bar soap, because it can clog pores and dry out your skin. Also, try a toner - water and glycerin-based toners are ideal. Look for one that contains antioxidants, such as Peter Thomas Roth Glycolic Acid Clarifying Tonic. Finally, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. People with combo skin can even use foundation with a sunscreen, or a tinted sunscreen for light coverage.
Oily Skin
For oily skin, wash at least two times each day with a salicylic-based cleanser. Select one that offers at least 1-2% salicylic acid for the best oil control. Back acne can be an issue during the summer, adds Sobel. so try an acne body scrub that can be used on your problem areas. DDF Pumice Acne Scrub is a great multipurpose product - use it on your body, and a few times a week, use it for nose and chin blackheads. Follow with a sunscreen with ingredients that balance oil production and provide a matte finish, like the new GoClear Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 15. It's a fast-absorbing, oil-free, moisturizing sunscreen that provides UVA/UVB sun protection, complexion-enhancing botanicals, and a clean, matte finish.
Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin, it's important to stick to products with simple ingredients that won't irritate your skin. Start your daily regimen with a very gentle cleanser, says Dr. Sobel. People with sensitive skin should also seek out a chemical-free sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as active ingredients. Another good sunscreen to try, which can also double as a moisturizer, is Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid.
Related Links
Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
