Summer is basically here and therefore, it is time to update our skincare routine to the warmer weather. Those thick and heavy products that our skin was craving during the winter and spring are likely too intense for our skin now, so this is the time to lighten things up and use higher sun protection.

Here are a few ways to take care of your skin during the summer:

 Never skip cleansing

Cleansing is a step you want to make sure you are doing every morning and night. At night especially, you want to make sure you are properly removing any and all sunscreen, makeup, sweat and buildup from those long hot summer days. A double cleanse with an oil-based cleanser first followed by a hydrating cleanser is a combination that many people love during the summer. The first cleanse is more of a removal cleanse and the second cleanse is that targeted cleanse.

Choose a lightweight moisturizer

Moisturizer is an essential step in a skincare routine year-round, and a lightweight moisturizer is what most find to be the best option for the summer months. A light but effective face cream, like the one from Blue Lagoon skincare for example, is a great option to give your skin enough nourishment without feeling heavy.

Apply a higher SPF

Those summer months call for a higher SPF, and with more time spent outside and the sun’s intense rays, be sure that you are always applying and reapplying sunscreen. Remember that this is particularly critical if you are in and out of water! It is helpful to bring a face and body sunscreen with you during the days so you can reapply as needed.

Incorporate a vitamin C serum

Vitamin C serum gives your skin an antioxidant boost, which can protect your skin, help protect it from hyperpigmentation, and help promote the synthesis of collagen.

Exfoliate once a week

Exfoliate once a week to help remove buildup on the skin and reveal that glowing skin underneath. It will also help the rest of your skincare products absorb better in the skin, but it is equally important to not overdo the exfoliating so you don’t cause stress on your skin. Glycolic acid is a popular exfoliating ingredient because it helps open blocked pores and get that deep clean. Just remember to keep up with applying and reapplying that sunscreen because glycolic acid and exfoliators in general will cause your skin to be a bit more sensitive to the sun.

Use non-comedogenic makeup products 

Non-comedogenic makeup products are helpful to avoid causing congestion for your skin. While you are using more sunscreen, your skin is going through more stress with sun, heat and sweat, and you are trying to keep up with hydration, for when you do wear makeup you want those products to be as light and comfortable on your skin as possible.

In addition to these skincare steps, it is also important to drink lots of water to stay hydrated on the inside and while tempting, to avoid taking long hot showers to avoid stressing out and dehydrating your skin.