Why your skincare routine should change in the summer

Its hard to believe that summer is already half way over! Yet, here we are. If you haven't adjusted your summer skincare routine yet, now is the time.

Hot & humid weather, spending more time outdoors, and more frequent sun exposure can effect the skin in many ways.

Here is our top tips for your summer skincare routine.

• SPF!

Predictable, I know! But seriously, it really is SO important to protect your skin from the sun everyday, all day, no exceptions. Your daily moisturizer needs to have an SPF 30 at least. And SPF in your makeup is NOT enough. In most cases, you simply do not wear enough foundation to provide enough SPF protection. With that being said, how much should you apply? A general rule is 2 fingers length is enough to cover your face, neck, and décolleté. One of our absolute favorites is IMAGE MD Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF50. It is lightweight, offers broad spectrum protection and has SPF 50, so you know that you will be covered

• Switch to Lighter Formulas

In the colder months when your skin is craving that hydration, a creamy cleanser may be best for you. But in the summer, try switching to a foaming gel cleanser instead. Even if your skin normally feels tight from a foaming gel cleanser, you may find that on hot humid days, it is refreshing and just what your skin needs. We love the Eminence Organics Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser . It creates a light lather that sloughs off dead skin with Lactic Acid without over-stripping the skin.

• Use an Antioxidant Serum

Oxidation, whether it is on the skin or when a cut apple turns brown, is caused by free radicals. Free radicals damage healthy cells and cause premature aging. One of the main ways that our bodies produce free radicals is by exposure to environmental factors, such as UV rays. That is why in the summer, it is very important that you include antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, in your daily skin care regimen so that you can help your skin fight free radical damage. One of our best sellers is the Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Anti-Aging Serum. It contains multiple forms of vitamin C to help brighten the skin & fight those pesky free radicals!

• Try a Clay Mask

Whenever you skin is feeling a little oily, a clay mask is a great option. Clay is used in skincare to absorb oil and mattify the skin. You can add this into your routine a few times a week when you are noticing your skin being oilier than usual, or if you are experiencing some breakouts. One of our favorites is the Eminence Clear Skin Probiotic Masque. Its uses kaolin clay, tea tree, yogurt and cucumber to absorb excess oil, gently exfoliate and soothe the skin. It has a cooling effect on the skin that is so refreshing on a hot day!