Tips for solving common summer beauty problems
Summer should be all about enjoying the beach, BBQs, and pool parties — not worrying about your appearance. Here are eight hacks for conquering the most common summer beauty problems:
1. Frizzy flyaways
An increase in temperature usually coincides with an increase in humidity, leading to frizzy flyaways. Tame unruly frizz using a lightweight cream that offers a 24-hour humidity defense. You can also shampoo less in the shower to prevent frizz. Why? This is because shampooing strips the natural oils in the hair and scalp, but these oils prevent frizz by maintaining moisture levels. Ideally, you should only use shampoo two or three times per week if you have dry, frizzy hair.
2. Sweat stains
It’s common to sweat frequently during summer. Use a deodorant and antiperspirant combo for maximum protection against wetness and pit stains. If that doesn’t help, then try a clinical-strength antiperspirant. Apply it at night right before bed — the active salts will dissolve and plug sweat glands.
3. Sunburn
Sunburns can happen quickly — even if you’ve applied sunscreen. If you sustain a sunburn, immediately apply aloe vera to expel heat and lessen thermal injury. And be sure to apply moisturizer to the affected area during the peeling process.
4. Breakouts and shine
During the warmer months, oil glands work harder, producing more oil and grease. To reduce shine, look for skincare products that contain oil-absorbing ingredients, like sulfur. Also, switch to a salicylic acid-based body wash to treat acne. Additionally, you should exfoliate consistently to slough off dead skin cells and deep clean pores.
5. Makeup that melts
When it’s hot and humid all day, makeup can easily melt off your face. Look for waterproof and water-resistant cosmetics. Always remove makeup before bed to prevent blocked pores. You should ensure that every last trace of makeup is removed. For waterproof mascaras, use a makeup remover designed for waterproof eye makeup and follow up with a gentle cleanser.
6. Chlorine hair
Summer is all about swimming, but constantly hanging out in a pool can cause chlorine-damaged hair. To keep your strands healthy, rinse with cool water before jumping into a pool; it’ll seal the cuticle. Then apply a leave-in conditioner to help protect against chlorine buildup. You should also use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove mineral deposits and follow up with a protein-rich mask to lock in moisture.
7. Sun damaged skin
Even if you religiously apply SPF to your face before going outside every day, you can still end up with sunspots. To prevent sun-damaged skin, add an antioxidant serum under your moisturizer during the day to help fight free radical damage. Then, apply a moisturizer or serum containing peptides that increase collagen production at night.
8. Ingrown hairs and razor burn
During the summer, you probably notice an increase in ingrown hairs and razor burn from shaving your bikini line and legs more often. Instead of continuing to shave or wax, which only make these two issues worse, consider getting laser hair removal for smooth, hair-free skin all summer long. After a series of treatments, you’ll experience permanent hair reduction of up to 80%. One thing to note for next year: is it’s best to start laser hair removal earlier in the year to be fuzz-free by summertime.
Gorgeous and carefree
Look and feel your best this summer by conquering all your beauty woes with the simple hacks above. Remember to wear waterproof and lightweight makeup, apply SPF before going outside, and prep your hair with the right hair care products. Here’s to a carefree summer!
References
- “9 Embarrassing Summer Beauty Problems Solved,” Good Housekeeping, June 4, 2014.
- “Your Biggest Summer Beauty Problems — Solved,” Real Simple, May 16, 2018.
