Cool for the Summer

The warmest season of the year is almost here, so it's time to level up on our skin routines. But as the Fresh Prince says in the classic song, Summertime, "If ain't broke then don't try to fix it. And think of the summers of the past..."

If your skin is the same, no matter the season, you can read our previous article, "Top 10 Summer Essentials List," to organize your summer fun bag. Even so, you may want to switch your face wash in the summer since skin tends to get oilier in the heat.

How can you get that summer glow without ruining your skin and being safe? Here's some summer advice to look and be cool in the summer.Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Nothing is more important than staying hydrated for a healthy body, even more in the summer weather. By keeping hydrated, you increase the chances of avoiding several health hazards, such as fainting. Although the skin can become oilier in the heat, it can also easily get dehydrated.Temperature Check

Plan your day by looking at the heat index with an app that gives the temperature, UV risk, and humidity while giving safe outdoor suggestions for your day. The OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety app by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a great tool.Protect the Skin

As noted in the Top 10 Summer Essentials List, using sunscreen (even on the ears), a sun hat, sunglasses, and UPF clothing, when possible, can protect the skin from sunburns, overheating, and skin cancer. Finding shade outdoors is a healthy choice for your skin's present and future wellness.Dangers of Extreme Temperatures

Our bodies naturally regulate temperatures but not from one extreme to the other. So, it's best to never go directly from outdoor activities in extreme heat to an ice-cold shower or sitting in front of an air conditioner or vice versa, especially in a heatwave. This act is very stressful to the body.

I can't forget the days of sitting in front of a fan that blew hot air at my grandma's studio apartment. She had no air conditioning, and Los Angeles summers are brutal. 

It's equally unsafe to be in extreme heat for long periods, especially for infants, toddlers, and seniors. This fact is also actual for people who are obese, have health conditions, or are on medications.

In hot environments, we run the risk of:

Hyperthermia happens when our bodies shut down our natural temperature control in the brain. Common symptoms are muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dizziness (syncope), and fatigue.Clean Indoor Air

Before the summer sun shines its powerful rays, it's essential to have your air conditioner thoroughly cleaned. Freshen up those filthy ducts, switch out dirty filters every 30-60 days (Yes, for God's sake, this means replace last year's!). And wipe and vacuum all dust-covered vents.

Indoor pollution is real and should not be taken lightly. It's always a good thing to have a HEPA air purifier in the home all year round.Air Conditioner Abuse

On the same note, overusing the A/C can cause more than a high electric bill. Heat intolerance is caused by spoiling yourself with that extra, cold breeze. The body begins to rely on it and may lack its usual cool-down abilities.

Too much use also sucks the juice out of your skin. It's similar to the after-effects of being in the cold mountain air, where the skin and lips can become chapped, even the nasal passage becomes dried, possibly crusty. Nobody likes that feeling.Load Up

Make sure to prepare your summer skin care regimen by stocking up on your favorite sun cream, hats, UPF clothing, sandals, beach bags, and whatever else makes your sunny, summer days brighter.

It's important to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables while drinking plenty of water. Through the longer, hotter summer days, the skin takes a beating from the sun, even when we're extra careful.Having skincare like ℞escue Skin serum to help refresh your skin cells is a powerful instrument! With our highly concentrated stem cell formula, your skin will have the much needed help in the fight against free radicals, slow skin cell turnover while boosting skin health.

The sun will be roaring with all its might in a few weeks. Be prepared to keep cool while looking hot this season!