Everyone struggles with certain skin issues from time to time, even dermatologists. Knowing that a change in season can mean big changes for the skin, we want to offer some expert tips to help you avoid unexpected frustration. As the summer season gets into full swing, we suggest the following.

Lighten Up

In the winter, the air gets dry and so does the skin. That’s why experts recommend switching to heavier, more emollient-type creams and lotions. If you haven’t already thrown out those products and switched to lighter weight moisturizers and lotions, now is a good time to do just that. In addition to using lighter moisturizers, you can even switch up your cleanser to one with foaming action rather than one that is thicker or oilier.

Pull Double-Duty

Lighter moisturizers are necessary in the summer months, and so is sunscreen. Especially if your skin is on the oily side, you may want to find a moisturizer that has SPF in it. Just be careful to choose a product with SPF 30. When we use moisturizer and sunscreen separately, there is more for the skin to absorb and, for some, this can lead to clogged pores and greater susceptibility to breakouts. Doubling-up can completely change the game.

Don’t Skip the Moisturizing

Patients often wonder if moisturizing is even necessary when it’s hot and humid out. It is. Moisturizing is always necessary. When you’re hot, you sweat more, yes. However, moisturizer does what sweat cannot. A major aspect of moisturizer is that it replenishes the stratum corneum, the outer layer of the skin that protects it from environmental irritants. So even though you should apply a lighter product, this is not a step to skip.

Add Some Nutrients

Your cells benefit from nutrients, and your skin has unique cells that sit just at the surface, where they are touched by the world-at-large. Experts recommend that we use a vitamin C serum daily. This can be applied after cleansing and before moisturizing to give the skin a healthy glow while it works beneath the surface to smooth fine lines and support vital collagen production.

Westport is about to warm up! To get personal dermatologic help for your skin, schedule a visit with us at (203) 226-3600.