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7 ESSENTIAL SUMMER SKINCARE TIPS FOR WOMEN IN THEIR 40S

summer skincare

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It's that time of the year when it’s time to switch up our skincare routine to keep that radiant glow. Our 40s bring about unique skin challenges, and the summer heat can make it even trickier to maintain that youthful, vibrant look we all are working so hard to keep!


Let's explore some great summer skincare tips to keep our skin looking fabulous throughout the sunny season. These essential summer skincare tips will have your skin thanking you all summer long.





Skin Concerns in the Summer

Summer is a wonderful season, full of beach days, barbecues, and long, sunny afternoons. But it also comes with its own set of skin challenges, particularly for women in their 40s. Our skin changes as we age, and the way it reacts to summer weather can be quite different from when we were in our 20s or 30s.


Summer skin can be tricky to manage, especially in our 40s. The combination of heat, humidity, and increased sun exposure can exacerbate several skin concerns. Here are a few common issues we might face:


Dehydration: While it might seem counterintuitive, the hot weather can actually dehydrate our skin. The sun, saltwater, chlorine, and air conditioning all contribute to drawing moisture away, leaving our skin feeling dry and tight.


Sun Damage: This one’s a given. With more time spent outdoors, our skin is more susceptible to UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging.


Oiliness and Breakouts: Increased temperatures can lead to overactive sebaceous glands, which means more oil production and, consequently, more breakouts. Even those of us with typically dry skin might notice more shine during the summer months.


Hyperpigmentation: Age spots and melasma can become more pronounced with sun exposure, making it crucial to protect our skin.


Sensitivity: Heat and sweat can cause skin irritation and sensitivity. This can make our skin more reactive and sensitive to certain products and environmental factors.





7 Essential Summer Skincare Tips

Now that we know what we’re up against, let’s talk about how to tackle these concerns head-on. Here are seven essential summer skincare tips tailored for women in their 40s.


1. Hydration is Key

One of the most important aspects of summer skin care is keeping your skin hydrated. This doesn’t just mean drinking plenty of water (though that’s crucial too!). Incorporate hydrating products into your skincare routine, such as:


Hyaluronic Acid Serums: These are excellent for drawing moisture into the skin. Apply it on damp skin for best results.



Lightweight Moisturizers: During summer, a heavy moisturizer can feel too greasy and clog your pores. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that provides hydration without making your skin feel oily. Gel-based moisturizers are a great option as they absorb quickly and leave your skin feeling fresh.


The drugstore favorite, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is a great one to try.


Facial Mists: Keep a hydrating mist in your bag for a quick refresh throughout the day. Look for ones with calming ingredients like rose water or cucumber extract.


These facial mists are a few that would be great incorporated into your summer skincare routine - Eau Thermale Avene Thermal Spring Water, THAYERS Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Facial Mist, HERITAGE STORE Rosewater & Glycerin, Curel Japan Skin Care Hydrating Water Essence Toner, and of course my personal pick, the Caudalie Grape Water Moisturizing Face Mist.





2. Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

We can’t talk about summer skin without emphasizing the importance of sunscreen. This one cannot be stressed enough. Sunscreen is your best friend during summer.


Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously on all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating. Look for sunscreens with added antioxidants to help fight free radicals and protect your skin from aging.


Here’s what to keep in mind:


Broad-Spectrum Protection: Choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays.


SPF 30 or Higher: Ensure your sunscreen has at least SPF 30. Apply it generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.


Mineral vs. Chemical:  When choosing between mineral and chemical sunscreens, it's important to know how each one works to protect your skin.


Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, use natural minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a barrier on top of your skin that reflects UV rays. They start working immediately and are great for sensitive skin.


Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use active ingredients like avobenzone, and oxybenzone, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat that is then released from the skin. Chemical sunscreens need to be applied 15-20 minutes before sun exposure to be effective. While they tend to be more lightweight and easier to blend into the skin, some people with sensitive skin may find them irritating.


So, whether you choose mineral or chemical sunscreen depends on your skin type and personal preference!






3. Exfoliate Wisely

Exfoliation is key to keeping your skin looking bright and smooth.


It helps remove dead skin cells that can build up and make your skin look dull. Use a gentle exfoliator twice a week to keep your skin clear and glowing. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate your skin and opt for exfoliants with alpha or beta hydroxy acids for a gentler option.



To minimize irritation, exfoliate in the evenings to avoid sun sensitivity, and always follow up with a good moisturizer - don't forget your sunscreen the day after!



4. Incorporate Antioxidants in your Skincare Routine

Antioxidants are powerful allies in your summer skincare arsenal. They are your skin's best friends! They help combat free radicals caused by sun exposure and pollution.


Look at incorporating serums or moisturizers that contain ingredients like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Niacinamide, Resveratrol, Ferulic Acid, and green tea extract. These will help combat free radicals and keep your skin looking youthful.






5. Lighten Up Your Makeup

Summer is the perfect time to lighten up your makeup routine. Heavy makeup can clog pores and feel uncomfortable in the heat. Choose a tinted moisturizer or BB cream with SPF instead of a full-coverage foundation.


Here are some tips for a summer-friendly makeup routine:


Tinted Moisturizers: Swap your heavy foundation for a tinted moisturizer or BB cream with SPF. It provides coverage while feeling lightweight on the skin. The NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30PA+++ is a great option! Also the DRMTLGY Anti-Aging Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 46.


Powder vs Cream Products: If you're 'blessed' with oily skin, use powder-based products like blush and bronzer to avoid the greasy look that cream products can sometimes give in the heat.


Setting Sprays: If you don't want your makeup to slide down your chest three minutes in, a good setting spray can help your makeup stay in place and keep your skin looking fresh all day. The URBAN DECAY All Nighter, e.l.f. Stay All Night Micro-Fine Setting Mist, and Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Super Setter are all great choices.


A PSA - we don't need heavy makeup, no matter what the season!





6. Care for Your Eyes and Lips

The delicate skin around your eyes and lips can be particularly vulnerable in the summer. Here’s how to give them some extra love:


Sunglasses: The skin around our eyes is thin and prone to sun damage. If you're already using an eye cream you can continue doing so but here's the time to bring out those huge bug-eye sunglasses to protect your eyes and half of your face!


Lip Balms with SPF: Our lips can burn too! Keep a hydrating lip balm with SPF handy and reapply throughout the day. Try these options - NIVEA Smoothness Lip Care SPF 15, my favorite - Aquaphor Lip Repair Lip Balm with Sunscreen, or the water-resistant eos Sun Protect - Coconut | Lip Balm with SPF 30.





7. Stay Cool

Finally, remember that keeping cool can help your skin stay calm. Overheating can lead to inflammation and irritation.


Here are a few tricks to stay cool:


Cool Showers: Opt for cool or lukewarm showers instead of hot ones. Hot water can strip your skin of natural oils and exacerbate dryness.


Cold Compresses: If your skin feels irritated, hot, or sunburned, a cold compress can provide instant relief.


Stay in the Shade: Whenever possible, stay in the shade and wear protective clothing like hats and sunglasses to minimize direct sun exposure.


Hydrate from the inside out: Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and eating high-water-content fruits and vegetables like watermelon, pineapple, cantaloupe, and cucumber amongst others. Also, don't forget to replenish all those electrolytes you've lost throughout the day with coconut water!






Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors and soak up the sunshine, but it's crucial to take extra care of our skin, especially as we age. By following these essential summer skincare tips, you can keep your skin healthy and hydrated all season long.


Remember, the key to great skin at any age is consistency and care. So, let's embrace the summer with confidence, knowing that our skin is cared for and protected.


If you have any other summer skincare tips or questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you!


 

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summer skincare

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