Summer Skincare for Absolute Beginners

The summer is upon us, and now it’s the time to save your skin. Our skin might be in trouble by the end of summer if we don’t take care. Heat, dryness, and UV exposure, particularly when swimming, can cause our skin to peel, become irritated and, in worst cases, develop cancerous melanoma.

To save you time, we’ve compiled a list with the 5 most essential skincare ingredients and products that you can include in your routine – even (and particularly) if it’s for absolute beginners. The best part is that you can find them all for a very reasonable price. You can find them all for pretty cheap – no expensive splurging here.

5. Glycolic acid

It may sound as if you should keep anything that contains the word “acid”, kilometres from your skin. However, glycolic acids are extremely beneficial for the skin barrier. It’s a chemical exfoliant, which removes dead skin cells for a refreshed look, and dermatologists actually recommend them over physical exfoliants – like harsh face scrubs – because they can cause microscopic lesions and damage the skin long-term. It can also reduce wrinkles and fine lines, help to even out your skin tone, and treat acne. In the past few years the product has grown quite popular, and people put it everywhere – even on their underarms and bikini line! First-time glycolic users should be aware that the skin will need to become accustomed to the acid, and it may hurt a bit at first. Don’t worry. Your skin will adjust quickly and you can see the benefits almost immediately.

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is not only great for improving the immune system as a supplement, but it can also be applied topically to the skin. Who knew? Vitamin C can protect the skin from UV rays. However, that is not all. It can reduce redness, even out the complexion, reduce dark spots, and improve collagen production. As we age, it naturally decreases, leading to sagging skin. Vitamin C is essential for summer.

3. Petroleum jelly

The simple petroleum jelly has become a skincare standard. It is affordable, beautiful and easy to use. It is easy to obtain, easy to apply and provides almost immediate results. It is essential during hot, dry summer days. It can also be used to treat sunburns and minor cuts. It can also be used as a moisturiser, especially for the lips – many prefer it over lip balms, as these types of products, strange as it sounds, can actually make the consumer dependent on them. You may have chapped lips because Because of the drying agents in your lip balm and not in spite. Some skincare junkies even slather their entire face in petroleum jelly before sleeping, a process called “slugging” … though that may be a bit extreme, and not to mention uncomfortable, for skincare beginners.

2. Retinol

It’s no wonder that skincare gurus are obsessed with retinol. Retinol is a skincare product that offers benefits second to none. It increases cell turnover and gives the skin an appearance of freshness. It reduces wrinkles and fine lines by increasing collagen production. It can make your skin feel smoother and softer. It does almost everything. Use it with caution at first. Like glycolic acid it can sting and burn your skin the first few times. Use a low-percentage solution the first few times you use it. (Something like 0.5 to 1 percent would be ideal for beginners) and apply some moisturiser as a barrier. If you’re a fan of retinol, then consider upgrading to tretinoin. This is a powerful product that will keep your skin looking young and even. It can be quite harsh, so it must be prescribed by a doctor. It is important to remember that retinol (and especially tretinoin) are extremely powerful products. You can also find out more about It is a good idea to use It is important to use sunblock with retinol, as UV rays can cause irritation. It’s best to avoid retinol unless your skin is protected from the sun. All of us. Which brings us to the number one most important skincare product this summer…

1. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!

We all knew that this was going to be number 1. Even those with little or no knowledge about skincare have likely been taught to value sunscreen. It’s not only important to use sunscreen if you plan on spending a lot of time in the sun this summer. It’s also essential for skin cancer prevention, such as melanoma. It also has aesthetic advantages. Wearing sunblock can protect skin barrier and prevent premature wrinkles. It will also moisturize the skin. Dermatologists actually recommend that you wear sunscreen every day. Just apply 30-45 minutes before being in direct sunlight and you’re good … although hardcore skincare buffs will often pair it with sun-protective accessories (hats, visors, and parasols). And don’t worry about choosing the “right” kind – any kind of sunscreen will do the trick, although a general rule in all skincare is to avoid heavily fragranced products as they can irritate the skin. Different SPF formulas and levels are available, but it’s important to remember that your skin will not benefit from expensive skincare products, facials or nighttime routines if you don’t protect it against the sun.

There’s more to skincare, as with any science or hobby. The terminology, products, ingredients and scientific-sounding name (really, what is it? squalene? Or niacinamide?It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. But with these five essentials, you have everything you need to make sure your skin is healthy during the summer … and prevent from being red as a lobster by the end of it.