Summer Skin Care Tips from Dermatologists

Try an Avocado Mask

Only Cleanse Once

“Wash your skin in the morning, but avoid using a cleanser. Your skin typically remains pretty clean while you’re sleeping, so it’s fine to save time and simply rinse with water in the morning and use your cleanser just once daily. Cleansers can compromise the skin barrier function and deplete essential nutrients and hydration. Plus, over-washing skin can ramp up skin’s oil production, leading to acne.”

— Dr. Brian Zelickson; Minneapolis

Clean Your Cell

“Wipe your cell phone down daily with an alcohol swab. It kills any bacteria and reduces oils that may get transferred onto your skin.”

— Dr. Eric Schweiger; New York

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Prep Your Skin Overnight

“To treat scars that might show up if you’re wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts, nighttime is a great time to incorporate targeted treatments into your skincare routine. Sleep enables the body to repair and regenerate skin cells at a faster rate.”

— Dr. Debra Jaliman; New York

Think Lighter

“Move away from heavy moisturizers and switch to lighter, oil-free lotions and serums. Tinted moisturizers and BB creams can do double duty. For my patients with acne, summer can be an extra concern, but prescription ACZONE can be worn under makeup, so you can still treat your acne while wearing makeup.”

— Dr. Doris Day; New York

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Skip Lemon-Lime Drinks

“My favorite all-year-around tip is to have tinted windows and apply sunscreen for while you're driving, when you can still get skin damage. For summer, not sipping lemon-lime-based drinks on the beach seems counterintuitive, but you shouldn’t. Here's why: I've seen one too many young women get a chemical-like burn around their mouth and hands, before their ‘important’ day — and it’s because they sipped on a margarita or lemon-based drink on the beach and developed phytophotodermatitis.”

— Dr. Indy Chabra; North Sioux City, S.D.

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Use the Right Sunscreen

“You do not need to become a vampire, but you should be smart about sun safety. Use sunscreen that has zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and that is at least SPF 30. Also, it's always important to remember to reapply if you have been sweating or swimming.”

— Dr. Travis Kidner; Beverly Hills, Calif.