Solutions For Your Summer Skin Problems

Filed in archive Beauty , Skin Care on June 15, 2010

© Krystn Palmer Photography

You're ready for summer. You're looking forward to Italian ices, 8 p.m. sun sets and more outdoor time. And the sun feels good on your skin.

However, you're also worried about a host of skin problems that you often encounter during the hot-weather season. Well, here are our top five skin-related summer bummers and what we suggest you can do about them.

Oil Slick On Your Face

The humid weather increases oil production, giving you oilier skin on your face. Try swiping on a toner twice a day. Apply a clay mask once a week to draw out impurities. Just be careful that you avoid your skin from getting dry too.

Chicken Skin

Are you seeing small red bumps on your skin? That's probably due to keratosis pilaris - chicken skin that usually shows up on the backs of your upper arms. Use a lotion with alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids to dissolve the bumps. Do not try to scrub them off with a loofah, as this could worsen your condition.

Ingrown Hair

Treat dry skin with a shave cream that is rich in essential oils. Forget the blade altogether. Try using a shea-butter-infused depilating cream instead. There are new spray-on formulas that make the hands stay clean. Apply heavily and stand on a towel to keep bathroom tiles slip-free. If you're in a hurry, put a mini electric shaver in your beach bag and then lube up afterward.

Darker Skin in Your Armpits

Shaving causes friction, which results in inflammation and brown or grayish patches. Make the skin brighter with a lotion that has hydroquinone. And use a new razor every three shaves.

Your Skin Breaks Out

Use sunscreen that is oil-free or non-comedogenic to prevent acne usually caused by ordinary sunscreens.