It’s time for summer… and summer skin care! We only get 93 days of summer, and whether you plan to spend yours on the beach, in the garden, behind the grill, or on the volleyball court, your skin will need a little special care. These summer skin care tips will keep your complexion at its best, even after hours in the sun.

Wear Sunscreen

This is basic stuff, but with the prevalence of skin cancer in America it seems some people aren’t really getting the message. A good, thick layer of sunscreen protects your skin against sun damage. Not only does UV protection reduce your risk of skin cancer, it also prevents skin damage that can lead to wrinkles and dark spots. We know you always put sunscreen on when you go to the beach, but the little bits of sun exposure you get throughout the day can cause just as much damage. Use a natural SPF facial moisturizer every day to block out the sun while supporting a naturally healthy complexion. We recommend a Non-Toxic Facial Sunscreen.

Protect Your Lips

Your lips are skin too, and if yours have ever gotten burned you know how sensitive they can be. SPF lip products keep this delicate area safe, comfortable, and moisturized. While you can find SPF lipstick, try sticking with a natural lip balm instead. A balm will help keep your lips from drying out and cracking: a real possibility if you like to spend your summer hours in the sun.

Exfoliate

When your skin builds up debris, it doesn’t get the full moisturizing effect from your toners and moisturizers. And you can bet that if you’re spending lots of time outside this summer, your skin is going to build up lots of debris. Exfoliate regularly to clear away congestion and make sure you’re getting the full benefit of your favorite products.

Soothe Sunburn

If you skimp on sunscreen, you’re going to end up with a sunburn. Not great, but there are ways to at least take get rid of the sting. Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to the burned area. If you don’t have an aloe plant at home, bottled gel works just as well (keep it in the fridge for extra cooling goodness). Aloe vera is filled with compounds that soothe inflammation and redness, plus its moisturizing properties will help burned skin heal more quickly.

Hydrate

Unless it’s well hydrated, your skin simply won’t be at its best. While you can hydrate from the outside with moisturizers and aloe vera, it’s just as effective to hydrate from the inside. Drink water. Lots of it. Eight 8-ounce glasses a day is a great rule of thumb, but if you’re outside sweating go ahead and drink even more. You’ll avoid dehydration, which can leave you feeling dizzy and headachy, and give your skin the tools it needs to look great all summer long.

And the Number One Summer Skincare Tip… Wear Sunscreen

Did we mention how important sunscreen is to summer skin care? Not only should you wear sunscreen, you should make sure you’re wearing enough of it. Use roughly a full ounce (the size of a shot glass) per application, and an extra teaspoon for your face - obviously the amount of sunscreen to apply will vary based on the amount of area you need to keep protected! If you’re out in the sun for more than two hours, reapply. If your skin starts to get red, reapply. If you’re swimming or sweating heavily, you guessed it: reapply (about every 80 minutes). The same goes for any kids in your care. There’s really no way to overemphasize the importance of great sunscreen habits.

Are You Ready for Summer?

Do you take summer skin care seriously? Any tips hot tips you can share for maintaining healthy, beautiful skin in summer time? What are your favorite natural skin care products for summer?