With the positive energy of new growth and revitalization that’s ushered in by the Summer season, you might see it as the perfect opportunity to change up your beauty routine–and we couldn’t agree more! To make the most of your complexion and get that summertime glow, check out these six summer skincare tips that are sure to help you get that healthy, lively look that you crave.

1. Exfoliate regularly to revitalize your skin

After a long winter season of dry air and potentially harsh temperatures, your skin can often wind up feeling dry and irritated. Dry skin can flake and itch, and while moisturizing can be an excellent help, it’s essential to rid yourself of any dead skin buildup.

However, while it’s tempting to think that more is better, make sure you exfoliate in moderation! You don’t want to start a vicious cycle of over-exfoliation that can damage your skin barrier and interfere with its natural oil production.

Once or twice a week is enough as far as exfoliation goes. Any more than that, and you run the risk of causing your skin to dry out even further and become irritated.

2. Nourish your skin from the inside out

As they say, beauty starts within–often with a proper diet and supplements! Make sure your diet is rich in nutrients such as B vitamins, keratin, and omega-3 fatty acids. If necessary, talk with your doctor about the best supplement to add to your diet to increase nutrient intake for healthier skin.

Foods like carrots, salmon, leafy greens, blueberries, avocados, and walnuts are all great for your skin. The nutrients and antioxidants that you can gain from adding foods such as these to your diet can help you bring out the best in your complexion and prevent or slow signs of aging.

Don’t forget to drink plenty of water as well, since hydration is one of the easiest ways to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

3. Up your SPF game–regardless of cloud coverage

Most people are aware of some of the highly damaging effects that sun exposure can have upon the body, and those with beauty on the brain know that ultraviolet rays can damage your skin.

Now that the intense summertime sun is bathing the Earth in its bright rays, it’s crucial to make sure that you protect your skin from any collateral damage! Make sure you find a high-quality moisturizing facial sunscreen that has a high SPF factor and that you apply it diligently when you go outside.

While some people think that plenty of cloud coverage means that they don’t have as much of a need for sunscreen that day, this isn’t true. Harmful UV rays from the sun can still pierce through the clouds and make their way straight to your complexion, even if it doesn’t feel as extreme. Make sure you apply your facial sunscreen whether the day is bright and sunny, or a mild and overcast!

4. Enjoy the beautiful weather with outdoor exercise

Once you’ve applied a substantial coating of sunscreen, head outside for some exercise. Not only does working up a good sweat help to clean out your pores and keep your skin refreshed, but the blood flow that results from getting your heart pumping is great for the complexion as well.

Exercising also increases the chances of your body making the most of all those skin-boosting nutrients that you provide it with when you maintain a balanced diet, and improving your overall health is a wonderful way to enhance your natural, youthful glow.

5. Make the most of the light summertime look

Summertime makeup looks generally go for lightweight makeup coverage and soft, ethereal eye and lip colors. Since excessive makeup can clog your pores if you have sensitive or delicate skin, this can provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy a lighter covering of makeup.

Opt for a sheer foundation or tinted moisturizer, and focus on hydrating your skin for that dewy, summertime look. Moisture is essential all year round, but it’s especially crucial after the dryness that often sets in throughout the winter–so go for a good BB cream instead of a thick layer of foundation.

Products like BB cream can pull double duty by evening out your skin tone and hydrating your skin throughout the day. You might find that a light, tinted moisturizer or facial sunscreen and some light shadow applications are all you need to feel ready for a fresh, summer day!

6. Amp up your moisturizing routine with a nighttime cream

While daytime skincare is crucial, it’s critical to pay attention to your nighttime routine as well. Your body does a great deal of its repair and restoration work while you’re sleeping deeply, so it’s a good idea to provide it with all the materials it needs to make the most of the downtime.

Deep moisturizers, anti-aging formulas, and other products designed specifically for nighttime use can take your skincare routine to a whole new level and help you wake up looking better than ever.

Author Bio:

Richard Overmyer is a copywriter for TrueSkin Dermatology. Richard enjoys discussing the latest dermatology tips and trends to help people have healthy, youthful skin. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing, hiking, and pretty much anything that gets him active in the mountains, with lots of sunscreen!