Warmer weather skincare tips will keep your skin healthy and glowing

Jessica Evans, NP

The days are growing warmer and brighter, and there’s nothing like enjoying the fresh spring air. While there are plenty of health benefits to spending more time outdoors—such as more exercise, a boost in our mood and even clearer thinking—we should also remember to adjust how we care for our skin as we transition from the dry winter months to warmer weather.

Careful cleansing

First, consider the moisture that your skin needs. During the winter, thick cream moisturizers are ideal, but as the weather changes, a gentler approach is needed.

“Switch to a lighter moisturizer in the spring,” advises Nurse Practitioner Jessica Evans with Beacon Medical Group Mishawaka Primary Plus. “Make sure you have a gentle, non-stripping cleanser that removes oil without drying you out and exfoliate one to two times per week.”

Sun protection

Equally important is choosing products with sun protection. “Even though spring may feel milder than summer, UV rays are still strong enough to damage your skin, even on cloudy or cool days,” Evans says. “Also, if you are using any products like retinoids or exfoliants, your skin is even more sensitive to UV rays, and sun protection is even more important.”

Wearing sunscreen is essential because sun damage builds up over time. This increases your risk for early skin aging and skin cancers, such as the most serious form, melanoma.

Moisture and nutrition

To keep your skin happy this spring, also be sure you’re giving it plenty of water. “Everyone is different when it comes to hydration. Typically, eight to 10 cups of water per day will be sufficient,” Evans advises. She also suggests eating hydrating foods such as watermelon and celery.

The entire body, including skin, benefits from good nutrition.

“We should make sure our diet contains healthy fats like avocados, fish and nuts, as well as antioxidants like berries,” Evans says. She suggests incorporating collagen-supporting foods that contain vitamin c, zinc, and protein into the diet as well.

Finally, it’s always a good idea to limit the amount of processed food, sugar and alcohol that you consume. Your skin—and the rest of your body—will thank you!

Connect with us for care

Need to find a pediatrician or family medicine provider? Visit https://beacon.health/4jsZl73 to schedule online.