4 WAYS TO MANAGE DRY SKIN IN THE SUMMER

Wintertime often carries the bad reputation for exacerbating dry skin, but summer presents its own set of unique set challenges for the dry-prone. Chlorinated pool water, sunburns, sweating, and dramatic shifts in temperature and humidity can all contribute to dry skin, which in turn can lead to flaking, itching, and irritation. The good news is, there are plenty of steps you can take to fight back against dryness! If you are struggling with dry skin this summer, here are a few helpful tips, along with some dry skin management options from our skin care lines:
1. CLEANSE GENTLY
Use a mild fragrance-free cleanser for the face and body rather than a traditional soap or scrub. While it may be tempting to rub away flakey skin with an exfoliant, these products can easily strip your skin of its natural oils and weaken your skin’s protective barrier. Help fortify your dry skin by treating it very gently. Use clean fingertips or a soft towel to apply a fragrance free gentle cleanser to damp skin. Lightly massage your cleanser onto the skin in a circular motion, and then rinse with cool or lukewarm (not hot!) water. Skin Wise Clinical Gentle Renewing Cleanser provides a gentle, yet effective cleanse.
2. MOISTURIZE AGGRESSIVELY
This step is one of the most important to maintain an intact skin barrier and improve dry skin. A fragrance-free moisturizer should be applied consistently- at least 1-2 times daily, as a good rule of thumb. It’s also super important to moisturize after showering or bathing. If you will be swimming a lot this summer, prior to going for a dip, think about protecting your skin from the chlorine with an extra barrier to prevent dry skin. Apply a thin layer of non-fragranced ointment or petrolatum such as EltaMD Moisture Seal to dry-prone skin prior to entering the pool. This will give your skin an extra line of defense against harsh chemicals and will reduce water loss. Once you hop out of the pool, be sure to wash off that chlorinated water as soon as you can! When you get out of the shower, while skin is still slightly damp, apply your moisturizer of choice. Creams, oils, and ointments tend to provide the most hydration and barrier protection. Skin Wise Clinical Restoring Skin Oil will quench and revitalize skin and leave your skin glowing.
3. PRIORITIZE SUN PROTECTION
Sunburn is a pain! Not only does it increase the risk for accelerated skin aging and skin cancers (in addition to just plain hurting!), but it can significantly aggravate dry skin and cause excess water loss and peeling. Generously apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher any time you are going outdoors, reapplying every 2 hours. A mineral sunscreen containing at least 5% zinc oxide for its active ingredient will offer the best broad spectrum protection. Frequent reapplication of sunscreen is extra important if you will be sweating or swimming! Wear sun protective clothing including wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long-sleeve shirts for an additional line of defense.
4. HYDRATE WELL
Between the increased sweating and sunburn risk of the hot summer months, we tend to lose more fluids than we realize! Fight back against dehydration by frequently sipping water, ideally aiming for 8-10 glasses per day, possibly more if you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors or participating in vigorous physical activity.
It can be an uphill battle against dry skin this summer, but we know you’re up to the task! If you feel like you’re continuing to struggle with dry skin, we’re here to help! Schedule a consultation with one of our dermatology providers, and we’d be happy to address any questions you may have!