Get Flawless Summer Skin in Five Easy Steps

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Now that the days are starting to heat up, you’ve probably been fantasising about throwing on that new bikini and heading down to the water. For some of us, though, the thought of baring our body for the whole beach to see is cringeworthy. If your skin is looking a little bit neglected after the long winter months, don’t worry. This post can help you get smooth, sun-kissed skin before you head out of the house in just five quick steps.

Cleanse Your Skin
Blackheads, acne, and other breakouts, can ruin otherwise perfect skin. Luckily, they’re easy to prevent. Using a gentle cleanser once or twice per day helps to keep your pores unclogged and free of debris that might lead to blemishes. If you have severe acne, or acne scars, more involved treatments such as chemical peels and laser treatments might help to reduce the visibility of trouble spots.

Exfoliate Your Skin
Nothing says winter skin like a dull, dry complexion. Exfoliating can help you to remove old, dead cells and increase their turnover rate, keeping you looking young and fresh. Gently massaging exfoliant into your skin also encourages better circulation, which helps to bring oxygen and nutrients to the surface and give you a healthy glow.

Moisturise and Protect
When skin is exposed to cold, dry weather, it can start to become red, or chapped. Indoor heating doesn’t help either, drying out skin and leaving it looking lifeless. These problems can be even worse for anyone suffering from chronic skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis. One of the best ways to combat dryness is to use a moisturiser in your daily skincare routine. This helps to trap natural moisture in the skin, leaving it firm and supple. Drinking enough water is also important, as it not only keeps your skin hydrated, but also keeps your body balanced.

Build Your Base Tan
Tanning beds are damaging to your skin and can contribute to cancer, so it’s best to stick to safe alternatives if you want to sport a summer glow. Self-tanners and professional spray tans can help you to get the bronzed look that you want without any of the health risks. Be sure to put on sunscreen any time you head out into the sun to protect your skin from UV damage, which can increase your risk of skin cancer and cause premature ageing. If you have previously used a tanning bed or been exposed to strong rays, it is important to schedule regular skin cancer checkups with your doctor as a preventative measure. 

Remove Those Pesky Hairs
Nobody wants hairy legs, or an unsightly bikini line, especially not before a trip to the beach. If you’re tired of shaving, tweezing, and waxing, you may want to consider opting for a more permanent solution. Laser hair removal requires a bit of thought and planning, but after a few relatively painless sessions you won’t have to worry about stubble growing back during the summer. It’s best to get hair removed during the winter, as skin shouldn't be exposed to sunlight directly before or after treatment.