Tuesday Ten: Summer Skin

1. Dry brush before you shower.

In my post last Wednesday I briefly discussed dry brushing.  To dry brush you first need to get naked, then you take a brush like this and "brush" your body in sweeping or circular motions from the toes all the way up to your neck (but don't dry brush your face or neck!), and finish by showering.  Dry brushing removes dead skin and helps to improve circulation - it has even been said to help improve the appearance of cellulite.  Doing this before every shower has created a noticeable difference in my skin, it's significantly softer and helped to get rid of the keratosis pilaris on my arms.  If you want smooth skin for summer this is a must try!  This pin has more information on dry brushing and is super helpful.

2. Scrub in the shower.

I always feel like in the summer my skin needs a little extra exfoliation, so about once a week I like to use a body scrub in the shower, in addition to dry brushing.  Even if you skip the dry brush you have to at the least exfoliate in the shower to get smooth skin the warmer months.  I use a scrub at the end of a shower and vigorously scrub my whole body, I then pat it dry and use lotion to lock in the moisture.  Fresh makes the ultimate body scrub, and I also love this one from DERMAdoctor, which physically and chemically exfoliates your skin; you can also DIY a scrub and I have a few recipes coming in the next few weeks!

3. Embrace moisturizing and anti acne body washes.

This might seem kind of counterproductive, but having two different types of body wash is important to get the best skin possible.  I use a moisturizing body wash, like this, for the areas of my body that are dry, like my arms and legs.  I then use an anti acne body wash on spots that tend to break out, like my chest and back, and am a big fan of this.  Another great tip is to make sure to wash your back after you rinse the conditioner out of your hair so you get rid of any residue that could potentially clog your pores.

4. Use a quality razor.

I learned the hard way that using a quality razor is important.  For as long as I can remember I've used Venus razors, even the most basic one contains moisturizer and multiple blades; however, one time I tried to use a super cheap razor and it destroyed my skin.  After I used the cheap disposable razor my legs broke out with horrible razor burn that really hurt; needless to say I never tried that razor again and went back to Venus.  In addition to the awful rash the cheap razor also did not give as nearly as close of a shave as my usual Venus.  This taught me it's worth it to spend a little more on a razor because it just works better, saves time, and prevents problems.

5. Moisturizing shaving cream is a must.

I've been shaving my legs for over a decade and I've learned that next to having a good razor using a moisturizing shaving cream makes all the difference.  My skin is super sensitive to some shaving creams, but this one works the best for me and I love it.  Using a moisturizing shaving cream will help you to avoid cutting yourself, help you get a closer shave, and will hydrate your skin.

6. Get Bikini Zone.

To avoid razor burn on your bikini line Bikini Zone is an absolute must have.  I always used to get razor burn whenever I shaved down there, but this has been a serious game changer for me.  I put this on the areas I shaved when I get out of the shower and it prevents any redness, irritation, and/or itching.  If you wax or depilate your bikini area you can also use this to soothe any irritations you may experience.  I've actually told a few of my friends about how well this works and they love it now too!  For the summer months I also like to use the Bikini Zone Anti-Bumps shave gel when I shave my bikini line just to really make sure my skin doesn't look irritated when I wear a bathing suit.

7. Moisturize with oil.

If you've read some of my beauty posts than you probably know I love using oils to moisturize.  Oils moisturize your skin even better than lotions do and they typically have more natural ingredients, which is a big plus for me.  My favorite oils to use to moisturize my body are coconut oil, jojoba oil, and avocado oil; I used to also love using almond oil, but I developed a bad allergy to tree nuts so I can't use it anymore.  I advise putting oil on before you go to bed so it is all absorbed in the morning and you wake up with soft, gorgeous skin.

8. Use a firming cream.

I am a huge fan of Nivea Skin Firming Hydration Body Lotion with Q10 Plus.  Not only does this lotion moisturize your skin nicely and smell good, but it helps to tone and firm skin too.  I've been using this for years and it does noticeably tighten the skin on your body.  I love using this cream in the summertime because a lot more of my skin is exposed and this just makes it look nicer.  It helps with the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks and is great for an extra boost of confidence.

9. Take a bath.

Soaking in a bath, especially when you add a moisturizing bubble bath or bath oil to it, is a great way to soften your skin.  If I'm experiencing any skin issues I like to soak in a bath with this before bed and it really soothes my skin.  To get the most out of a bath dry brush before you get in and quickly apply oil to seal in moisture when you get out.

10. Use sunscreen!

In my opinion this is a no brainer because who wants skin cancer or sun damage, but it always amazes me how many people still do not wear sunscreen.  I am crazy about sunscreen because I am so fair skinned and love Neutrogena sun products.  Make sure to apply sunscreen fifteen minutes before sun exposure and to reapply frequently, especially if you're in the water.  If you don't follow any of the other tips on this list please at least follow this one!

What are your best tips for getting your skin summer ready?

  

                

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