As summer heats up, dermatologists and beauty professionals are urging people not to neglect their grooming routines. While the season brings sunshine and outdoor fun, it also poses risks to hair, skin, and nails due to UV exposure, chlorine, saltwater, and humidity. The key to maintaining a healthy appearance? A full-body approach grounded in expert advice.
Hair Care: Safeguarding Your Strands
Scalp Sun Protection
Often overlooked, the scalp is vulnerable to sunburn. Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist at the Shafer Clinic, recommends using lightweight sunscreen sprays or powders on exposed areas. For those with longer hair, Dr. Hallie McDonald of ERLY advises tying hair back and wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Shaved heads should be treated with mineral SPF 30 lotion.
Pre- and Post-Pool Hair Tips
Chlorine can dry out and damage hair. Dr. Ellen Marmur of MM Skincare suggests soaking hair in clean water and applying leave-in conditioner or vitamin E oil before swimming. Post-swim, she advises rinsing thoroughly, using a clarifying shampoo, and finishing with a deep conditioner.
Managing Oil and Sweat
Increased perspiration during summer can lead to oily buildup. Stylist Temur Hamilton recommends using a scalp scrub once or twice weekly. For daily cleansing, stylist Miguel Luis suggests switching to lightweight shampoos and conditioners to preserve moisture.
Protecting Hair Color
Colorist Rita Hazan notes that sun and chlorine can fade or alter hair color. To combat brassiness and dullness, she recommends using a color gloss or at-home toner weekly.
Frizz, Volume, and Natural Texture
Frizz is common in humid weather. Luis advises using moisture-locking leave-in products suitable for your hair type and letting hair air dry. Avoid heat styling and excessive handling. For added volume, use volumizing shampoo, apply conditioner only to the ends, and use dry shampoo or texture spray as needed.
Skin Care: Sun Protection and Seasonal Adjustments
Daily SPF Is Non-Negotiable
Experts stress the importance of applying broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day. Dr. McDonald prefers mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide for the face. She warns that most people use too little sunscreen—recommending a nickel-sized amount for the face and a shot glass amount for the body. Reapplication every two hours is essential, especially outdoors.
Post-Sunburn Relief
Cool showers, aloe vera gel, and unscented moisturizers can help soothe mild sunburn. For more severe burns with blisters, Dr. McDonald recommends applying Vaseline and avoiding rupture to protect healing skin.
Keep Exfoliation Gentle
With skin already stressed from heat and sun, limit exfoliation to once or twice a week using mild formulas. Always follow with moisturizer and sunscreen.
Targeted Products for Common Summer Concerns
Dr. Engelman suggests oil-free moisturizers and gentle cleansers to address dehydration and clogged pores. She recommends incorporating niacinamide and salicylic acid into routines for oil control and breakout prevention. A vitamin C serum before sunscreen can further protect and brighten the skin.
Nail Care: Hydration and Seasonal Protection
Hydration Is Key
Celebrity manicurist Sunshine says exposure to chlorine and saltwater can cause peeling and brittleness. She recommends keeping cuticle oil or nail cream on hand and applying it regularly.
Foot and Nail Maintenance
Regular pedicures—ideally every two weeks—help keep feet in top shape. For those pressed for time, once a month is sufficient. She also advises switching between gel and traditional polish to avoid over-drying the nails, and never leaving polish on longer than three weeks.
Hand and Foot Sun Protection
Dr. Engelman reminds clients not to skip SPF on hands, feet, and around the nail beds. Using hand creams with built-in SPF offers extra defense against UV damage and premature aging.
The Takeaway
Summer skincare isn’t about elaborate routines—it’s about smart, consistent care. From scalp sunscreen to nail hydration, maintaining your beauty regimen can help you look and feel your best all season. With expert guidance and mindful habits, your hair, skin, and nails can thrive in the summer sun.
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