Main Offenders
The sun may be skin enemy number one, but it’s not the only bad boy of summer. Humidity, soaring temperatures, wind, insect bites and poisonous plants can all wreak havoc on your complexion – not to mention pollution, chlorine and air conditioning. “I see rosacea flare-ups due to the heat and dry skin from too much swimming and not enough moisturizing,” says Dr. Benjamin Barankin, a dermatologist in Toronto. “I also treat a lot of infected bug bites, sunburns, sun allergies and poison ivy rashes.”
Other Culprits
Beware the AirMoving between hot and humid weather outside and cool temps inside can throw off the skin’s natural balance of oil and moisture. When this happens, skin appears dull and drab and loses its radiance. Add some wind to the mix, and you’re left with dry, flaky skin. “In this case, a good moisturizer with SPF is your best defence,” says Dr. Barankin.
Nature's FoesMosquitoes, black flies, poison oak, poison ivy – a run-in with any of these outdoor obstacles can leave your skin irritated, inflamed, swollen, red and itchy. Keep this in mind when heading to the cottage or the woods, and kit-out your cosmetic bag accordingly.
Water HazardDiving into a nice, cold pool may feel refreshing on a hot day, but the chlorine can really dry out your skin and hair. Soothe skin with a liberal layer of body lotion, and treat your hair right with a replenishing mask or serum after poolside time.
Hot Weather Advice
To makeover your routine for summer, swap your thick cream-based moisturizer for a lightweight lotion moisturizer with at least SPF 30. “If you have oily skin, consider using the sunscreen as your moisturizer,” say Dr. Barankin. “Exfoliating more often during the summer is a good idea, too!”
