Summer Skincare Myths: Debunked

During the summer months, I hear a lot of chatter about skincare. Aaaaand, I have to say it’s not all entirely correct. From sunscreen to aesthetic skincare treatments, today I’m here to debunk all of those myths that are floating around.
If you want the abridged version, hear it is: wear sunscreen, all the time. For those looking for the full story, here you go …
“I can’t really do anything for my face in the summer, I’ll see you in the fall.”
Summer, fall, winter, spring. Tan or no tan. When it comes to skin treatments there is plenty that you can do all year long! In fact, with increased sunshine, I think summer is one of the important times to invest in your skin. There are a few treatments, including laser hair removal and laser pigment treatments that are not recommended with a fresh tan. Notice I said fresh! As long as your tan is at least two weeks old, these treatments are still fair game.
“I won’t be outside long, so I don’t really need sunscreen.”
Just like UV rays can sneak through the clouds, they can also find you through glass windows. Gasp, I know. It’s a total bite! Whether in your car, or enjoying the sunshine through your living room window, the truth is you’re only about 50% protected. Rather than stressing about it, my recommendation is put on sunscreen daily. Yes, even on those cloudy days, or those that you “plan” to stay inside.
“My skincare products say not go in the sun. So, I don’t use them in the summer.”
Don’t go in the sun?! This would be near impossible, even during the winter months. It is true to say that some skincare products do make your skin more sensitive to the sun, but that doesn’t mean you should toss them under the bathroom sink for half the year. Rather, use them more cautiously and apply sunscreen on the regular.
“I always buy SPF 50, so I’m good.”
That’s great! But, the SPF only tells us how well that particular product will block UVB rays. UVA rays are also harmful, and while they won’t cause you to burn, they do cause wrinkles. In order to ensure that your sunscreen will project you from both UVA and UVB rays, check in the ingredients list for one of the following ingredients: ecamsule, avobenzone, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, sulisobenzone, or zinc oxide. Any of these will cover you!
What other myths have you heard about summer skincare? Send them my way and I would be happy to debunk those too {wink}. The bottom line is that there is a lot that you can do for your skin during the summer months; don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. And, if I haven’t made this clear by now … wear sunscreen.