STYLE

 

Summer is fast approaching, and that means it's time to shake up your skincare routine. As we trade the cool, rainy days for hot and sticky ones, it's important to take care of your face, and make sure that you're giving it *lots* of love and attention. Here are seven ways to make your skin soft, sunburn-free and protected, as we count down the days until school is out!

If you have dry skin, try a hydrating, slightly heavier moisturizing cream.
Inexpensive, long-lasting products like Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream by Clinique absorb quickly, which is great for hectic, end-of-the-school-year mornings. Apply before bed to give the cream time to really soak in. You'll wake up with a softer face and it's still light enough to reapply throughout the day.

If you have oily skin, try a lightweight, liquid moisturizing gel.
Girls with oily skin might shudder at the idea of putting more liquid on their faces, but don't worry—great-smelling products like Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care by L'Oreal are incredibly light and dry super-fast. You only need one or two drops to cover your entire face, so a single bottle can last you months. The Hydra Genius also protects your skin from sunburn, which becomes increasingly important as the days get longer.

Eliminate pesky redness and blemishes with an exfoliating cleanser.
To improve the texture of your skin, no matter how sensitive, try products like Skin Brightening Daily Scrub by Aveeno.  It's hypoallergenic, designed for daily use and is very gentle. Plus, the smell is super summery (but not overwhelming) so you'll feel clean and ready to hit the beach.

Don't forget the SPF!
Day creams like ULTA's Radiant Skin Day Cream SPF 30, with macadamia and hazelnut oils meant to nourish and moisturize, are great for effective sun protection. They're easy to apply and can go under makeup no problem. You'll get a dewy look, without worrying about harmful UV exposure.

To prepare for summer vacations and day trips to the beach, try a grab-and-go travel set.
Mario Badescu makes a great, inexpensive one: It includes drying lotion for quickly getting rid of pimples and a rejuvenating facial spray with aloe, herbs and rosewater. The mist gives your skin a healthy, soft glow, *perfect* for soothing sensitive skin. When summer finally comes, give your skin a rosy smell with refreshing, lightweight spray.

Want to get some safe, summer color? Slather on some tinted lotion.
Getting that sun-kissed look without doing any risky tanning? Yes, please! Try oil-free lotions that will give you an even, natural-looking glow, like Summer Color Sunless Tinted Lotion from Banana Boat. This one has aloe vera and vitamin E, designed to eliminate streaks and dry quickly.

Remember to take care of your lips, too.
It's easy to forget to pay any attention to our lips...until they get cracked, chapped and dry, that is. Prevent that from happening with Lips 101 Ointment Strawberry Multi-Balm from Lano, and save yourself the stress (summer is supposed to be relaxing, after all!). This balm is long-lasting and glossy so just a little bit goes a long, long way.

How do you get your skin summer-ready? Tell us about it in the comments!

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by Bridget Curley | 5/4/2017