5 Simple Tips For Gorgeous Glowing Skin This Summer

After a cold winter filled with hats, gloves, and constant moisturizing, the longer, warmer days of spring are a definite relief. But, along with the zen that comes, for many of us, with warmer weather and longer days, is a reminder that we need to update our beauty routines. Afternoons spent at the beach or in the pool, tanning, and even air conditioning can wreak havoc on our skin and hair. Here are 5 simple tweaks you can use to  make your skincare routine summer friendly.

1.  Remember to hydrate.

There are a host of products from shampoos to foot creams that promise to relieve dryness. These products will help, but properly hydrating – drinking at least 8 8 ounce glasses of water each day – should be our first defense against dry skin and hair.

2.  Try a dry brush/scrub 2-3 times each week.

Many of us will use self-tanners or spray tanners in the lead-up to our trips to the beach. The thing is, tanners leave behind a residue and film on our skin that can clog pores. Use a dry body brush before showering to slough off dry skin and get rid of the residue from tanners and other products.

3.  Shower in cooler water in the hot, summer months.

We all love a hot shower, but hot water can be irritating to newly scrubbed skin; try a luke-warm shower instead. And, while showering, invest in a textured massage glove or scrubbing cloth to buff your skin daily throughout the summer. If you have really dry or sensitive skin, use a scrub with fine grains rather than rough grains.

4.  Apply self-tanners after other beauty touch-ups.

Never shave, get a mani/pedi, or color your hair just before applying your sunless tanner. The ingredients in any of these beauty treatments are likely to remove the tanner – and you’ll have to begin again later. Remember to apply tanners from the feet up, and use body lotion on your knees, elbows, and ankles before using self-tanners. This will keep the tanner from turning that fake-orange we all hate!

5.  Use a hydrating hair mask weekly.

I like masks that are rich in wheat protein because it forms a protective layer around your hair that will protect against sun exposure, and the harshness of either the pool or beach.

Bonus tip: Apply sunscreen every day, even on days you don’t think you’ll get much sun.

The summer sun, especially, can be harsh to the skin around our eyes, cheekbones, and even our ears. Protecting these areas is crucial in the fight against aging.

Using these simple beauty tweaks, you’ll be ready for a summer filled with sun and fun in no time.