This season, the U.S. has experienced extreme temperatures including Texas where there has been record breaking heat for days on end. After just minutes outdoors, the strength of the intense heat can be felt, which can quickly cause dehydration from the inside out.
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This season, the U.S. has experienced extreme temperatures including Texas where there has been record breaking heat for days on end. After just minutes outdoors, the strength of the intense heat can be felt, which can quickly cause dehydration from the inside out.
When it comes to self-care during intense weather, we all know that taking proper care of the skin is essential to keeping it healthy and protected from potential damage that is caused by sun exposure and extreme heat. As an esthetician and skin care specialist, I’ve rounded up some helpful tips to share with your clients to help them maintain optimal skin health throughout the season.
Hydration is Imperative
One of the most important and simplest steps to skin care during the heat, is drinking plenty of water. It may help to know that our skin, the body’s largest organ, receives hydration and nutrients last compared to other organs. With this in mind, it’s recommended that women consume about 11.5 cups of water per day, while men should have about 15.5 cups daily. I often remind my clients that proper hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and regulating body temperature, factors that will help us look and feel our best.
Be Stringent about Sunscreen Guidelines
I always advise that my clients to avoid direct sun exposure for long periods of time. If they plan to be outdoors in the sun longer than 10-15 minutes, be sure to recommend they apply a broad-spectrum, mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Sunscreen helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays and prevents sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. For an added layer of protection, you can recommend they wear a wide brimmed hat and stay diligent about reapplying sunscreen as directed on the label, as some SPFs are more resistant to water and other elements than others.
Related: 7 Sun Protection Myths Exposed
Not all SPFs are Created Equal
When recommending an SPF for the face, you will want to consider your client’s skin type. For example, if a client has oily or acne-prone skin, I typically suggest an oil-free or non-comedogenic formula. If a client’s skin is dry, I suggest an SPF that contains moisturizing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, for added hydration. One of my favorite sunscreen brands is COOLA because it offers an assortment of sun care products that cater to the whole body, and have elevated standards, using 70 percent organic ingredients. Personal favorites include the company’s Broad-Spectrum Mineral Body Organic Sunscreen with SPF 50, as well as their Full-Spectrum Mineral Face Organic Sun Silk Creme with SPF 30.
Changing Seasons Means Changing Skincare Routines
As seasons change, so does the environment, which can significantly affect skin. Different weather conditions, levels of humidity, and changes in temperature can impact the skin's hydration, oil production, and overall health. Therefore, modifying a skin care regimen accordingly can help achieve and maintain healthy and radiant skin year-round.
Some products that I recommend encouraging clients to change with the seasons are cleansers, exfoliants, and moisturizers. During the hot summer months, skin may feel like it has more build up from humidity, sweat and sunscreen. Subsequently, it's essential to switch to a cleanser that won't harm your natural oil barrier and choose an exfoliant that effectively removes impurities without increasing sun sensitivity. In the winter, the air tends to be dryer, therefore the skin may require a heavier moisturizer and a mild cleanser.
Michele Hernandez-Balero manages operations at Windflower Spa at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Spa and Resort in San Antonio, Texas. Windflower Spa offers guests authentic hospitality that will make them feel instantly relaxed and at home. In her role, Michele works to ensure each and every guest is able to unwind and enjoy the resort’s tranquil and secluded spa which offers massages, facials and body treatments using native Hill Country ingredients. Prior to Windflower Spa, Michele held other roles in hospitality.
