Your Summer Skincare Routine for Fun in the Sun

Do the words "summer skincare routine" trigger memories of your mom smearing thick white zinc all over your nose and face? Or, if you were like me, did you grease up with baby oil before spending the hottest 4 hours of the day laying in the sun every day during summer break? 

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Sunshine brings joy, outdoor adventures, and a healthy dose of vitamin D. And, it also poses risks to your skin. What's the best approach to having your fun without the damage? 

It doesn't have to be an "either/or" situation. A few precautions plus a solid summer skincare routine help you enjoy the sun safely while keeping your skin glowing and protected.

In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of sunlight, the risks of sun damage, and how to protect and heal your skin. Plus, we'll spotlight some amazing skincare products from our July subscription box to help you stay radiant all season long.

👉 Summer Travel? Check out our guide on How to Self-Care While Traveling: The Essential Guide

The Benefits of Sunshine

Sunlight is essential for overall well-being, but moderation is key. Here are a few benefits of getting some sun exposure: 

Sunlight Provides Vitamin D

Your body requires a healthy amount of Vitamin D for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. According to studies done by the Cleveland Clinic, small doses of midday sun exposure a few times a week can help maintain healthy levels. [1]

Sunlight Can Improve Sleep Quality

Natural light helps regulate your circadian rhythm, resulting in improved sleep. Morning sunlight, in particular, can help reset your internal clock for deeper, more restful sleep [2].

Sunlight Boosts Mood

Ever noticed how sunshine makes you feel happier? Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, a hormone that enhances mood and reduces stress [3].

The Risks of Skin Damage from the Sun

While sunlight has benefits, too much can harm your skin. Unprotected sun exposure can lead to premature aging, changes in pigmentation, and even skin cancer [4]. Here's what to watch for:

Long-Term Changes in the Skin's Collagen

UV rays trigger oxidative stress that disrupts collagen production while accelerating its breakdown. This results in cumulative damage over time, which leads to: 

• Fine lines and deeper wrinkles
• Thickened, leathery skin texture
• Easy bruising (especially on hands and forearms)

Increased Risk for Skin Cancer

Prolonged UV exposure damages the DNA in your skin cells, causing mutations that can lead to uncontrolled growth (cancer). This damage accumulates over time, making melanoma and other skin cancers more likely to develop. 

Changes to Skin Pigmentation

Sun damage triggers melanin overproduction, causing dark spots (like age spots) and freckles. UV rays also disrupt pigment distribution, leading to uneven skin tone. This happens because UV radiation stimulates melanocytes (pigment cells) to work overtime.

Sun Protection and Hydration: Your Summer Skincare Essentials

Preventing sun damage is easier than reversing it. Follow these steps to protect your skin from damage and maintain its hydration.

Use Mineral Sunscreens

Mineral sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are safer for people and the planet because they sit on the skin's surface without being absorbed, avoiding hormone disruption and allergic reactions. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which can harm marine life and linger in the body, mineral options are reef-safe, biodegradable, and FDA-approved as non-toxic. Opt for mineral sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide, which provides broad-spectrum protection without harming marine life.

Seek Shade 

Avoid direct sun between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest. Shade reduces direct UV exposure by up to 50%, significantly lowering the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Shade blocks the sun's strongest rays while still allowing indirect light, offering simple yet powerful protection.

Wear Protective Clothing

Protective clothing can shield you from harmful UV rays just as effectively as shade. Unlike shade, which isn't always available, UPF fabrics offer portable, reliable coverage without needing sunscreen reapplication.

• Wide-brimmed hats
• UV-blocking sunglasses
• Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing

Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated helps maintain your skin's moisture barrier, reducing dryness and improving elasticity to prevent premature wrinkles and sun damage. Proper hydration also helps flush out toxins and supports collagen production, keeping the skin resilient against environmental stressors such as UV rays and pollution. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water daily to maintain your skin's resilience and overall health.

How to Heal Skin Damage from the Sun

If you've had a little too much sun, these skincare steps can help repair and rejuvenate your skin.

Use a Gentle Cleanser

We recommend the Willow Cleanser to gently remove impurities while preserving the skin's natural moisture barrier. This formula helps reduce irritation and support healing in sun-stressed skin by maintaining hydration and preventing further dryness and inflammation.

Bonus: Its soothing formula helps calm redness and repair damage without harsh stripping!

Incorporate Antioxidant-Rich Treatments

Antioxidants (like Vitamin C, E, and turmeric) neutralize free radicals and calm inflammation to repair sun damage. For revitalizing repair after a day in the sun, try the Brightening Face Mask with Turmeric and Vitamin C. 

Bonus: These ingredients also fade dark spots!

Use Hyaluronic Acid

This ultra-hydrating ingredient helps restore moisture. HA is a sugar molecule that binds 1,000 times its weight in water, acting like a microscopic sponge to pull and retain hydration in your skin. It also reinforces the skin's natural moisture barrier, preventing water loss from environmental stressors (like sun or pollution). The Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum Stick delivers deep hydration and includes Vitamin C and Blue Tansy oil for extra soothing. 

Bonus: The packaging is zero-waste!

Incorporate a Lightweight Toner

A toner with aloe vera soothes sun damage. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness while restoring the skin's pH balance. The Breeze Revival Mist Toner adds wildcrafted Chaparral for extra calming relief after sun exposure. 

Bonus: Aloe's polysaccharides also help repair UV-damaged skin cells!

👉 RELATED: Sustainable Self-Care Checklist: A Guide for Well-Being

Use Botanical Oils for Powerful Hydration

Follow with a carrier oil and essential oil mix targeted for your skin type. Botanical oils deliver lightweight yet powerful hydration that keeps skin soft and glowing through summer. Packed with natural vitamins and essential fatty acids, they absorb quickly, lock in moisture, and help strengthen the skin barrier without feeling heavy or greasy.

FAQs: Your Summer Skincare Questions Answered

❓What summer skincare routine is best?

A simple routine includes cleansing, applying sunscreen, using antioxidants, and staying hydrated. Adjust your products based on your skin type—lighter options for oily skin, and richer hydration for dry skin.

❓How much sunlight should you get per day?

10-30 minutes a few times a week is enough for vitamin D without risking damage.

❓Should I use a toner with aloe vera?

Yes! Aloe vera hydrates and soothes sun-exposed skin.

❓What are the best antioxidants for summer skincare?

Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and turmeric neutralize free radicals and protect against environmental damage.

❓Is retinol safe to use in the sun?

Retinol increases sun sensitivity. If you use it, apply SPF 30+ daily and reapply every 2 hours.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Sun Safely

A summer skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated. By protecting your skin with sunscreen, antioxidants, and hydration, you can enjoy the sunshine while maintaining healthy skin.

For an easy way to upgrade your routine, check out our subscription box series, featuring new self-care rituals each month, including the best summer skincare essentials in July.