Why You May Want To Skip Your Skincare Routine This Summer In Favor Of Just SPF

It's no secret that the sun can do extensive damage to our skin, and it doesn't just manifest as wrinkles and age spots. Depending on the amount of sun damage your skin has endured over the course of your lifetime, you may be prone to developing skin cancer as a result, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Ultraviolet rays are ultimately to blame for the negative impact of the sun when it comes to the health of our skin.

While dermatologists can help treat some of the visible results of sun-damaged skin, including fine lines and an uneven complexion, prevention by means of sun protection is always preferred. This means wearing sunscreen with UV protection, shielding your skin from the sun when its rays are the strongest (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.), and avoiding tanning beds.

Many skincare products are aligned with reversing signs of sun damage, but even the most highly regarded products on the market can only do so much after a while. For this reason, more people are beginning to take the effects of UV rays seriously in the form of using preventative measures like wearing sunscreen, of course. This doesn't mean that you have to say goodbye to your favorite skincare products, but you might want to consider adjusting your routine — at least during the summer months. As it turns out, SPF may be all you need to go with your makeup.

Turns out, a lot of the products you use may be using already contain hydrating ingredients, including ceramides and hyaluronic acid. So, if you're using sunscreen daily during the summertime, you might not need to go heavy on the moisturizing component of your skincare routine.

If you have dry skin and you're worried about skipping your moisturizers and serums, be mindful of labels while sunscreen shopping. Seeing certain ingredients like ceramides listed can help you rest assured that you'll be using a sunscreen that's protecting you from UV rays and moisturizing your skin, too. On the flip side, if you have oily skin and want to prevent breakouts in the summer, opt for a sunscreen that specifically notes it won't clog your pores — the term often used on labels is "non-comedogenic."

It's also important to understand the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens. Both can protect you from harmful UV rays, but chemical sunscreen is better known for leaving little to no residue behind, especially on darker skin tones. However, it can be more irritating to sensitive skin or around the eyes — this is where mineral sunscreen can be your friend. Mineral formulations will still protect you from the sun's rays without burning or stinging your eyes.

The rules for how to wear makeup while sporting sunscreen seem to vary, depending on who you ask. However, knowing the correct way to apply your sunscreen if you also intend on wearing makeup is essential to protecting your skin from the sun.

First and foremost, your sunscreen should always be the first product you apply to your skin — even before foundation. "Don't rely on makeup for the best source of SPF, as it's notoriously unreliable in terms of the level of protection," noted board-certified dermatologist Dr. Bruce Katz while speaking to Makeup.com by L'Oréal. "Plus, makeup isn't always applied evenly and comes off easily, decreasing optimal coverage. You want to wear sunscreen underneath your foundation — it actually provides a better base for your makeup application."

While reapplying sunscreen is crucial to keep your skin protected throughout the day, it isn't always realistic for many of us, especially after you've already applied and set your makeup. But you can look for a mineral powder with SPF to make reapplication a breeze.