Summer skincare: the essential routine to keep your skin healthy, hydrated and protected

What happens to your skin during summer?

Although we often associate summer with healthier, sun-kissed skin, the reality is that the skin is exposed to significant environmental stress.

The main factors that affect it are:

• UV radiation.
• High temperatures.
• Constant sweating.
• Chlorine and salt water.
• Sudden changes between heat and air conditioning.
• Increased oil production.

All of these factors can lead to dehydration, the appearance of dark spots, irritation, excess shine and increased skin sensitivity.

1. Cleanse your skin gently

During summer, your skin accumulates sunscreen, sweat, pollution and excess sebum. Proper cleansing helps keep pores clear and prevents blemishes.

Ideally, use gentle cleansers that respect the skin barrier without drying out the skin.

Double cleansing in the evening is especially recommended if you wear water-resistant sunscreen or makeup.

2. Keep your skin well hydrated

Heat promotes water loss through the skin, making hydration essential even for oily skin.

During this season, the following products work particularly well:

• Lightweight hydrating gels.
• Hyaluronic acid serums.
• Fast-absorbing creams.
• Refreshing facial mists.

In addition to skincare products, remember to drink enough water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within.

3. Sunscreen: the step you should never skip

If there is one essential skincare product for summer, it is sunscreen.

Ultraviolet radiation is the main cause of photoaging, dark spots and loss of skin elasticity.

For effective protection:

• Use at least SPF 30, with SPF 50 being the most recommended option for prolonged sun exposure.
• Apply it every morning as the final step of your skincare routine.
• Reapply every two hours if you remain outdoors.
• Reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.

Don't forget to protect often-overlooked areas such as your ears, neck, décolleté, hands and the tops of your feet.

4. Add antioxidants to your routine

Antioxidants help fight the free radicals generated by sun exposure.

Ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E and niacinamide help to:

• Boost radiance.
• Improve skin tone.
• Reduce oxidative stress.
• Prevent premature ageing.

They are an excellent complement to sunscreen, but they should never replace it.

5. Soothe your skin after sun exposure

After a day at the beach or by the pool, it's important to help your skin recover.

After-sun products contain soothing and hydrating ingredients such as:

• Aloe vera.
• Panthenol.
• Glycerin.
• Allantoin.

These ingredients help reduce the feeling of heat, soothe discomfort and restore the skin's hydration.

6. Exfoliate in moderation

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and promotes a smoother, more even complexion, but during summer it should be done in moderation.

A gentle exfoliation once a week is usually enough to keep the skin renewed without compromising its protective barrier.

If you use chemical exfoliants containing acids, apply them at night and always follow with adequate sun protection the next day.

7. Don't forget your lips and eye contour

These are two of the most delicate areas of the face and are often the most overlooked.

To protect them:

• Use a lip balm with sun protection.
• Apply a hydrating eye cream.
• Wear certified sunglasses to reduce direct sun exposure.

8. Nutrition and hydration: your skin's greatest allies

Healthy skin also starts from within.

During summer, it is advisable to increase your intake of foods rich in water and antioxidants, such as:

• Watermelon.
• Melon.
• Cucumber.
• Tomatoes.
• Berries.
• Citrus fruits.

A balanced diet helps keep your skin hydrated and looking healthy.

Common mistakes to avoid

Some habits can have a negative impact on your skin during the summer months:

• Thinking sunscreen is only necessary at the beach.
• Not reapplying sunscreen.
• Using overly harsh skincare products.
• Neglecting hydration because your skin feels oilier.
• Exposing yourself to the sun during the hottest hours of the day.
• Going to bed without properly removing sunscreen.

Enjoy summer while taking care of your skin

A simple and consistent skincare routine can make a significant difference. Cleansing, hydrating and protecting are the three essential pillars of healthy skin throughout the season.

At Keshop, you'll find a wide selection of sunscreens, moisturisers, serums and facial treatments to tailor your routine to your skin's needs and enjoy summer with the best possible protection.