On 03
Jul
2014
The UV rays from the Florida sun are intense almost the entire year, but they are at their strongest in the summer. If you have a good care routine, summer isn't the time to let up, but you might need to make some changes to account for the greater heat and humidity. If you haven't gotten into a good skincare regimen yet, let this summer be the time when you finally start one.
Basic Skin Care
Sun protection for your skin is a must year-round. As the temperatures climb and the sun spends more time in the sky, it becomes even more important. Look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it will block both UVA and UVB rays. The SPF should be at least 15.
The higher the SPF, the more protection the sunscreen offers, but the level of protection isn't considerably different between SPF 30 and SPF 50. What matters most is that you reapply the sunscreen often, especially on those summer days when you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors. Aim for every two hours, or for every hour if you're sweating a lot or spending time in the water.
Since you're sweating more or your skin feels more oily, you might think that it's OK to skip the moisturizer in the summer. But, your skin still needs moisturization, especially when it's hot outside. Your best bet is to pick a skin wash and lotion or moisturizer that's lightweight and that won't clog pores. For a two-in-one benefit, look for a moisturizer that contains sunscreen, too.
Exfoliate
Extra oil, sunscreen and sweat can build up on your in the heat of summer. Your might also be recovering from the drier air of winter and have a build-up of dead cells on it. Exfoliation is important to the of your all summer long. One way to get a jump on exfoliation is to schedule a , chemical peel or microdermabrasion.
A removes the outer layer of dead cells, helps clear out your pores and can help hydrate your skin. Your doctor will work with you to create a that best meets your needs.
Chemical peels vary in intensity, but the goal of all types of peels is to remove layers of dead or cells. Some peels are very mild and only affect the superficial layer of . A mild peel might be ideal for summertime skincare, as it has no and few risks. You will have to be extra diligent about protecting your from the sun after the peel.
Microdermabrasion is another way to gently exfoliate your skin. Like a chemical peel, microdermabrasion removes the outer of , the look of fine , sun spots and other imperfections. The does make your more sensitive to the sun.
Laser Resurfacing in the Summer
Artisan resurfacing is a great option if you want to remove the signs of winter damage and from your . A type of laser resurfacing, the Artisan Laser is available as both an ablative and a non-ablative . The that is best for you depends on the degree of on your or the type of issue you have.
Non-ablative lasers are generally ideal for uneven tone or texture. They can also help the of fine and some scars. Ablative lasers, which actually damage the outer of the , are designed for deeper or more set and .
There is some debate about whether laser resurfacing is ideal for the summer. Some patients might prefer the in the summer, since they have more time off from work. But, since the increases sun sensitivity enough that patients are told to avoid sun exposure, some prefer to wait until fall or winter, when the days are shorter. If you are considering laser resurfacing, discuss your concerns with your doctor to determine when the best time for the is for you.
Voted the best of Brevard, Dr. Ross Clevens is a nationally recognized plastic surgeon. He is available to help you pick the skincare that's best for you. To schedule a consultation at his practice in Melbourne, FL, call (321) 727-3223.
