With the Memorial Day weekend behind us, it's safe to say that summer is officially here! Sunshine, blue skies, and warm temperatures are all on the menu, and we can't wait to soak it all in! 

And while we love everything about this season, we also know that it can be tough on our skin. Between the harsh UV rays, the hot and humid weather, and all the outdoor activities we have planned, our skin needs some extra love and care this time of year. 

So, to help you summer-proof your skin and keep it healthy and glowing all season long, we've put together a list of 8 essential tips. From SPF to hydration to exfoliation, we've got you covered!

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Ahh, summer — the season of sun, beach, and flip-flops! But, under all the fun, your skin might be struggling to keep up with the heat. Enter the simplest and most important tip - hydration. 

H2O is what keeps our skin looking fresh and healthy all year round. But, with the scorching sun and sweat, hydration is even more crucial in summer. Make sure you sip on at least 8 glasses of water daily, and if plain old water isn't your jam, add slices of cucumber or lemon.

2. Apply Sunscreen Regularly

If you want to summer-proof your skin, you can forget all those fancy creams and treatments, because the one thing you absolutely need is sunscreen. It's your first line of defense against the harmful UV rays of the sun that can cause premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer. But not all sunscreens are created equal, so make sure to choose one with an SPF of at least 30 and is broad-spectrum.

And remember to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you're sweating or swimming. Don't forget to slather some sunscreen on those oft-forgotten areas like your ears, neck, and hands!

3. Wear Protective Clothing

To keep your skin safe this summer, don't just rely on sunscreen. You could wear protective clothing as an extra shield against those harmful UV rays. The key is to go for light, breathable fabrics that keep you cool in the heat. Cotton and linen are perfect for the occasion! 

If you really want to protect your face and neck, throw on a trendy hat! Not only does this add a little extra style to your outfit, but it also shields you from that harsh sun. Being smart about your skincare doesn't have to be a snooze-fest. So, get creative and protect yourself!

4. Seek Shade During the Hottest Hours

Ready to have a summer full of fun in the sun without sacrificing your skin? Then listen up! The hottest hours of the day are between 10 am and 4 pm, making your skin more vulnerable to sun damage during that time. 

So, to keep your skin happy and healthy, seek shade wherever possible during those hours. Look for a shady tree, umbrella, or canopy that can help shield your delicate skin from those pesky UV rays. Trust us, your skin will thank you for it!

5. Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin

Exfoliating is like a mini spa treatment for your skin, and we all need a little relaxation in our lives, right? By scrubbing away dead skin cells once or twice a week, you'll be doing your skin a big favor. Dead skin cells can clog your pores, which can lead to breakouts and a dull complexion. 

But fear not! You don't have to scrub too hard to see results. Opt for a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant that has AHAs or BHAs to make your skin brighter, smoother, and more polished.

6. Use Products with Antioxidants

Antioxidants? Yes, please! These wonder ingredients like vitamins C, E, and A do a superb job of safeguarding your skin from nasty environmental stressors such as the sun and pollution. Say what? Yep, that's right! 

You can bask in the sunshine and stroll around the city streets worry-free when you use products with antioxidants. So, when you're on the hunt for the right serum or moisturizer, keep an eye out for the above ingredients. They'll give your skin the TLC it deserves and shield it from damaging free radicals. Plus, a little bit of extra protection never hurt anybody!

7. Avoid Hot Beverages and Spicy Foods

Spicy food and hot drinks might give us the fiery flavor we desire, but they're no friends to our skin. These culprits can trigger inflammation and turn our faces as red as a cooked lobster. 

To avoid waking up looking like a tomato, choose cooler drinks like refreshing water or iced tea, and reach for milder spices in your food. With this, you'll still get to satisfy those cravings without causing mayhem on your face. Stay cool and calm, and let your skin glow with the radiance of a summer sunset.

8. Incorporate Hydrating Foods into Your Diet

Eating your way to healthy and hydrated skin? Yes, it's possible! And it's as easy as incorporating hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and berries into your diet. Not only do they pack a delicious punch, but these foods are also bursting with goodness for your skin. 

With high water content, they can give your skin the hydration it needs from the inside out, making it look and feel supple and refreshed. Plus, these foods are chock-full of antioxidants and vitamins, which can help prevent skin damage and maintain a youthful glow. So, don't just quench your thirst this summer, quench your skin's thirst too with these hydrating and nourishing foods!

Conclusion

So there you have it — 8 essential tips to summer-proof your skin this June! By following these simple steps, you can keep your skin healthy, happy, and glowing all season long. 

But remember, prevention and protection are key, so take care of your skin and it will take care of you. Whether you're heading to the beach, the pool, or just going for a walk on a sunny day, be sure to wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and follow these other tips for healthy, beautiful skin.