Glow Without the Burn: Safe Tips to Get Radiant Summer Skin
There’s nothing better than glowing, radiant skin in the summer—except achieving it safely. With stronger UV rays, more time outdoors, and the temptation to “tan,” summer can be one of the riskiest times for your skin. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your glow. Here are safe, dermatologist-approved tips to help you shine this summer—without the burn.
1. Ditch the Tan, Keep the Glow
Skip tanning beds and hours in the sun. Instead, opt for a high-quality self-tanner or gradual glow moisturizer. These give your skin a sun-kissed look without exposing it to damaging UV rays that accelerate aging and increase your risk of skin cancer.
2. Exfoliate (Gently!)
Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and enhances the absorption of your skincare products. In the summer, try a gentle chemical exfoliant with ingredients like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) 2–3 times a week to keep your skin smooth and bright.
3. Hydrate from the Inside and Out
Glowing skin starts with hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and use a lightweight, hydrating serum or moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These lock in moisture without weighing your skin down.
4. Boost Your Radiance with Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects against sun-induced damage and helps even out skin tone. Incorporating a vitamin C serum into your morning routine can help your skin look brighter and more radiant.
5. Always Wear Sunscreen
If you’re looking for summer glow without the damage, daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and don’t forget commonly missed spots like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet. Reapply every two hours when outdoors.
6. Add a Dewy Finish with Makeup
A glow doesn’t always have to come from your skincare alone. A touch of dewy or illuminating makeup—like a light-reflecting primer or bronzing highlighter—can give your skin a radiant look without risking damage.
Glowing skin is healthy skin. Focus on hydration, protection, and gentle skincare, and you’ll enjoy a radiant summer complexion without the risk of sunburn or long-term damage.
There’s nothing better than glowing, radiant skin in the summer—except achieving it safely. With stronger UV rays, more time outdoors, and the temptation to “tan,” summer can be one of the riskiest times for your skin. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your glow. Here are safe, dermatologist-approved tips to help you shine this summer—without the burn.
1. Ditch the Tan, Keep the Glow
Skip tanning beds and hours in the sun. Instead, opt for a high-quality self-tanner or gradual glow moisturizer. These give your skin a sun-kissed look without exposing it to damaging UV rays that accelerate aging and increase your risk of skin cancer.
2. Exfoliate (Gently!)
Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and enhances the absorption of your skincare products. In the summer, try a gentle chemical exfoliant with ingredients like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) 2–3 times a week to keep your skin smooth and bright.
3. Hydrate from the Inside and Out
Glowing skin starts with hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and use a lightweight, hydrating serum or moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These lock in moisture without weighing your skin down.
4. Boost Your Radiance with Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects against sun-induced damage and helps even out skin tone. Incorporating a vitamin C serum into your morning routine can help your skin look brighter and more radiant.
5. Always Wear Sunscreen
If you’re looking for summer glow without the damage, daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and don’t forget commonly missed spots like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet. Reapply every two hours when outdoors.
6. Add a Dewy Finish with Makeup
A glow doesn’t always have to come from your skincare alone. A touch of dewy or illuminating makeup—like a light-reflecting primer or bronzing highlighter—can give your skin a radiant look without risking damage.
Glowing skin is healthy skin. Focus on hydration, protection, and gentle skincare, and you’ll enjoy a radiant summer complexion without the risk of sunburn or long-term damage.
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Judith Crowell, MD and Associates
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