Summer is a wonderful time for adventures and living life carefree. It seems to be a pretty universal feeling with all the songs about sweet summertime. Whether it’s the “Summer of ‘69” or “Summer Nights,” just hearing the word summer can transport you back to a happy memory. Why is this?

Perhaps that feeling as a kid when “School’s Out” never leaves. As the temps get warm you’re ready for summer vacation. However, with all the “Hot Fun in the Summertime,” sun protection is important. There are several essential practices to keep your skin healthy in the summer. Keep reading to unlock some skincare secrets that will keep your skin healthy “All Summer Long.”

1. Repair Your Skin

Summertime activities tend to bring people outdoors. If you’re already dealing with some skin issues or irritation, this can exacerbate the problem. Whether you’re dealing with sun spots, rosacea, or acne check to see if there’s a prescription skin care option that works for you. Specialized treatment can begin the healing process. It might also protect against further damage.

If you don’t have time to make it to a doctor’s appointment with your busy summer schedule, check out online prescription options. An online consultation and delivery model is perfect for summer. Your medication can come right to your house. You won’t lose time sitting in an office or running by the pharmacy, so you can continue with your activities. Just be sure to check out the side effects before heading out into the sun, as some prescriptions can make you more sun-sensitive.

2. Apply Sunscreen

Speaking of protecting your skin, apply your sunscreen! You’ve been told about the importance of sunscreen, so it might not feel like a skincare secret. However, the key to good protection is in the SPF and the application. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays is best. At minimum use 30 SPF but, if you’re fairer in complexion, 50 SPF is recommended.

And pick a sunscreen with water resistance. For best results and protections, apply your sunscreen 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours. Everyone should wear sunscreen whenever they are out in the sun. Applying when you’re out mowing is just as important as when you’re at the beach.

3. Be Strategic About Time of Day

The harshness of sun exposure often correlates with the time of day when you’re outside. The middle of the day tends to be the worst for the rays beating down on you. This means there’s a higher level of ultraviolet radiation, which can increase the risk of sunburn, skin damage, and potential long-term effects like skin cancer. If you can, try to plan your outside activities around the highest UV exposure of the day.

Skip being out in direct sun during the middle of the day. Plan cookouts and yard games for the early morning or evening. If you are outside during peak sunshine hours, do what you can to keep cool and don’t forget your sunscreen. Remember to stay in the shade. If you’re at the pool or beach, bring an umbrella. If you’re at a park or in your yard, an awning or a shade tree can be a life saver!

4. Wear Protective Clothing

For added measure, wear UV protective clothing that is cool like a sun shirt and breezy, lightweight pants. This might seem counterintuitive since it’s hot out. Why wear more clothes versus less? The shorter your shorts, the more skin that is exposed to the sun. Covering up your skin with lightweight and sun protective shirts and pants gives you added protection.

Sunglasses are also a great tool in your sun protection toolkit. Your eyes can be damaged by the sun just like your skin. Look for sunnies with UV protection and dark lenses. A wide-brimmed hat is helpful too. It protects your neck, ears, and face and shades your head.

5. Take Cool Showers

You might be thinking, “I don’t want a cold shower! I want to steam and scrub away the sweat and sand and grass stains of summer.” It’s understandable, and that can feel glorious. However, your skin and body will thank you for turning back the hot tap and embracing a cool shower. Hot showers can actually damage your skin.

The excessive hot water can cause your skin to dry out. Cool or warm water will be better for your skin, and it helps with blood flow and circulation. Cooler showers also help with sore muscles and fatigue and cool your skin down after a day in the sun. While hot showers also have their health benefits, in the summer, cool is best.

Enjoy Summer

Summer is a fun time of year with plenty of outdoor activities and lazy days. To fully enjoy the summer, take care of your skin. You don’t want to be in pain from a burn and miss out on the fun. Drink plenty of water and follow the tips above to protect your skin while having fun this summer. You’ll be more comfortable while keeping your skin healthy. And you can rest assured that you’ve done what you can to protect and nourish your skin.