By Mich Lagdameo
Mamas need protection from the sun, too!
While most moms tend to keep it low-key when it comes to their beauty routine, summer is the one time we need to be extra vigilant with our skincare regimen. The sweltering heat and constant exposure to the sun thanks to those fun-filled family beach trips means it’s time to step up our skincare game.
Never skimp on sunscreen.
Though not limited to summer (SPF is essential regardless of the season), it can’t be denied that sunscreen is extra important during the hot summer months. The harsh rays of the sun can cause irreparable sun damage and can lead to skin cancer. If you’re worried about the thick white cast or harsh chemicals on your face, there are many gentle formulas made specifically for the face out in the market already. Time to go SPF shopping!
Be eager to exfoliate.
Summer means more exposed skin—and most mamas will probably be shaving or waxing unwanted hair more often. Regularly exfoliating in the shower will give you a smoother shave or wax, and lessen the risk of unsightly (and potentially painful if infected) ingrown hair.
Go extra with the moisturizer.
Extra benefits, that is—no need to slather on an inch-thick layer! Stick to the formulation that’s worked best for you until now (water- or gel-based for oilier skin types, creamier formulas for dry skin) but consider a moisturizer that’s packed with summer-specific extra benefits, like added or higher SPF, or good amounts of Vitamin C and E (known to combat the effects of sun damage).
Invest in eye cream
The skin around our eyes is extremely thin and vulnerable compared to the rest of our facial area. It is prone to sun damage if we don’t watch out! Wearing sunglasses when outdoors is a must to protect our eyes, and applying a good eye cream as part of our night time regimen is essential in keeping the skin around our eyes supple and light-colored. Don’t forget to pat, pat, pat before you catch some ZZZ’s and you’ll be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed in the morning!
We are acutely aware of the harmful effects of constant sun exposure—why else would we slather our wriggling kids with all the latest and greatest sun protection creams and lotions?—so there is really no excuse to skimp on ourselves. Remember, a healthy, safe mama is what the family needs. And the glow that comes from that security is better than anything you’ll get from a tanning session!
Mich Lagdameo is a mom to a precocious 1-year-old. She is a writer and editor by trade and calling, and she lives for books, leisurely grocery trips, cups of good coffee, long drives with her husband, and the Food Network. Her days are punctuated by the sound of her computer keys and her daughter banging into things.