Healthy Summer Skin Must-Haves
Summer is officially here, and we couldn’t be more excited about warm weather, get-togethers with friends and family, and even a few vacations or staycations. It is also a great time to talk about keeping your skin as healthy as possible. But what do you think of when you think of “healthy skin?” Glowing. Radiant. Soft. Even.
Those are all buzzwords for a good reason: healthy skin looks healthy because it is healthy. With the help of a proper and regular skin care regimen, an arsenal of trusted products, and occasional in-office treatments or procedures, you can easily take care of your skin and manage common issues, especially during the hot, dry, or humid summer conditions, depending on where you live or vacation.
But, wait! Before you head to the store to choose new products or treatments, the first and most important thing is to understand your skin type and identify any issues you may be experiencing. That way, you will be able to customize your regimen for your unique skin type. So, let’s break down some of the more common issues people experience in the summertime and which products or treatments you may consider for your must-have collection.
Sunburn
The first is sunburn. We’ve probably all had a bad sunburn at some point, but it is much more than just the painful red skin and subsequent peeling a few days later. Sunburn does burn in more than just one way. The burn is actually skin damage; it is an inflammatory reaction to ultraviolet radiation damage to the skin’s outermost layers. Prolonged exposure, even without a severe burn, can lead to permanent damage and even leaves us at a higher risk for various skin cancers such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, which is the most serious of them all. The good news is that sunburn and harmful skin damage can be prevented with sunscreen, of course.
Sunscreen and How to Choose One
There are two types of sunscreens that can help protect us from the sun: physical blockers and chemical absorbers. Physical blockers use titanium dioxide or zinc oxide which sit on the skin’s surface to reflect UV rays away from the skin. And chemical absorbers form a protective film over the skin that absorbs UV radiation before it has the chance to penetrate the skin. Both are excellent choices and some sunscreens combine the benefits of both to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. A few important things to look for when choosing a sunscreen are:
- An SPF 30 or higher
- Broad-spectrum protection, which offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays
- Water-resistant formula
No sunscreen protects you completely, so be sure to reapply if you’re in and out of the water or staying out for an extended period.
Dry Skin
The next skin issue that is common in the summertime is dry skin, also known as xeroderma. Dry skin often occurs in, well, drier climates and when skin does not retain enough moisture. Bathing too frequently or using harsh soaps can also contribute to overly dry skin. This condition can be fairly uncomfortable and cause scaling, cracking, and frequent itching. But there are many of great products that offer hydrating benefits to soothe skin and restore its natural moisture barrier.
Moisturizing Products for Dry Skin
Here at BUDDIGA Family Allergy | Skin | Immunology we love the ZO® Skin Health line of products, and their hydration creams are no exception. Their Hydrating Crème is made specifically for dry, sensitive skin and is great for both AM and PM use. It is a summer must-have for your routine if you experience dry or cracking skin this season. Some key ingredients are:
- Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract for skin barrier restoration and hydration
- Myristoyl Pentapeptide-11 which supports overall skin health
- ZOX12®, an exclusive 12-hour time-release antioxidant complex, and
- Colloidal Oatmeal provides fast-acting, skin-soothing benefits
ZO® Skin Health also has a helpful Regimen Finder to ensure you get personalized treatment for your specific skin needs.
Eczema
Another very common summertime skin issue is eczema flare-ups. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes itchiness, rashes, blisters, and skin infections. It usually develops during childhood and is common in those who have a family history of the condition. Triggers like high temperatures and warm-weather activities like swimming or spending all day in the sun can really bring on flare-ups, which may be surprising because eczema is typically much worse in the winter when the air is colder and drier. However, increased heat and humidity can lead to sweating which can irritate the broken skin and aggravate the overall problem.
Controlling Eczema Flare-Ups
Luckily, we have several helpful tips and products to use to help you combat persistent flare-ups and ease uncomfortable symptoms during the warmer months.
- Drink enough water
- Use hydrating sunscreens
- Keep cool rags around to cool down skin
- Avoid hot showers and harsh chemicals
- Limit extended sun exposure
For more specific product recommendations and strategies to manage your eczema, it is best to speak with a doctor or schedule a consultation with Dr. Buddiga and team.
Acne
Acne is another troublesome skin issue many experience in the summertime. This condition occurs when hair follicles become blocked by oil and dead skin cells. Acne usually appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back, and shoulders because those areas have the most oil glands. And, as we all know, when the weather warms up, heat and humidity cause increased sweating and oil production, clogging pores and exacerbating breakouts and acne.
Helpful Products to Control Acne
Not to worry! You can still enjoy your summer and the warmer weather while keeping acne at bay with a few of these must-haves from ZO® Skin Health.
- Acne Control treatment: this powerful product helps neutralize bacteria-causing acne with soothing green tea, red tea, pinebark, and grapeseed extracts.
- Complexion Clearing Masque: this clay-based spot treatment masque cleanses pores and absorbs excess oil while hydrating the skin.
There are more great ZO® Skin Health products just like these to help treat your specific breakout issues, plus they’re easy to bring with you on any getaways you may be taking this summer. Throw them in your bag to keep them handy while you’re traveling!
Must-Have Treatments at BUDDIGA Family Skin | Allergy | Immunology
Beyond topical treatments and tips to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy all summer, we also recommend several treatments and procedures here at BUDDIGA Family Skin | Allergy | Immunology.
- Hydrafacial™ MD Elite: This non-invasive treatment removes dead skin cells, cleanses clogged pores, and rehydrates skin leaving it brighter and more rejuvenated. It also delivers peptides and antioxidants for instant hydration. Sounds refreshing, doesn’t it?
- CoolSculpting® Elite: This FDA-approved non-surgical fat reduction device is clinically proven to help remove fat deposits, particularly in stubborn areas around the abdomen, thighs, arms, and waist. Its long-lasting results will have you feeling more confident all summer long.
Schedule A Consultation
For more specific questions on skin health, products and potential treatments for your specific skin type and issues, we’d love to see you at our practice. We take the time with each of our patients to discuss your symptoms, conduct thorough testing, answer questions, and find a treatment that is right for you. We can’t wait to hear from you.
