When it comes to self care, our routine changes quite a bit come summer. With longer hours of sunlight, warm weather, and a general buzz of excitement that is unique to summer energy, our self care summer routine takes advantage of the sunshine and fresh produce, all while keeping up with skin and hair maintenance. 

Check out our self care summer routine so you can elevate your lifestyle during these warmer months.

First things first—moisturize

After cleansing your face, start the morning with a lighter moisturizer than you used in the wintertime. Make sure this moisturizer has SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Look for a moisturizer with vitamin E for optimal skin nourishing benefits. We also love the cooling effects of aloe vera.

Before lathering up, get your vitamin D

While we’re big on lathering up with sunscreen daily, let your skin soak up the highly beneficial nutrient vitamin D before applying your SPF. Spending even a short time in the sun can give your skin all the vitamin D it needs for the entire day! Let yourself soak up some vitamin D for about 15 minutes in the morning sun, and then apply your sunscreen before the harshest rays hit midday. 

And then, lather up!

It goes without saying, but we’re going to say it anyway because it’s just that important—use sunscreen daily to protect your skin from burns, drying out, premature aging, and of course, skin cancer. Find a sunscreen you like as far as texture and appearance so that it’s not a hassle to apply every single day. If you get wet or sweat, be sure to reapply!

Get calm with CBD

While CBD isn’t exactly unique to summer, now is as good of a time as any to start taking CBD oil daily. CBD is beneficial in relieving stress and anxiety and has overall balancing benefits. With a busy calendar of social activities, summer holidays and travel, we could all use a little more calm. Take a drop of CBD oil under your tongue or add it to your morning iced coffee. 

Move your workout outdoors

It’s time to change up your workouts for two reasons! One, working out can get boring no matter how much of a fitness fanatic you may be. It always helps your body and your motivation to get moving in different ways. Cross-training is helpful in preventing injuries and improving overall fitness. If you’ve been doing the same ol’ workout all winter long, it’s time to try something new this summer. Second, get moving outdoors to take advantage of the warm weather while we have it! Go for a bike ride, find a nearby trail to hike, or swim laps. If you live near a body of water, try paddle boarding. Just about every city offers yoga in the park, which is a great way to slow down and appreciate summer’s outdoor beauty.

Finally buy that floppy hat

While your sunscreen helps tremendously, it’s important to do everything you can to protect your skin. As we become more and more aware of UV damage, and the importance of preventing premature aging, covering up in the sun is becoming “in”. So go ahead, buy that floppy hat you’ve been eyeing! They’re cute, and everyone will be wearing one this summer.

Say something nice about your body

When we’re focused on all of the fun activities of summer, we often forget that summer can be one of the hardest seasons for self-criticism. Negative self-talk can sprout at any time, so be prepared to say some nice things about your body. Challenge yourself to look in the mirror and say something you love about your body every single day.

Drink up…with infused water!

Between hot weather, outdoor activity and poolside cocktails, summer is the most important season to be aware of how much water you’re drinking. Be conscious of how much water you’re drinking every day, refilling your water bottle once or twice a day. Water can be boring, we get it. That’s why we love to infuse our water with fresh fruit and herbs. Try watermelon and basil for a truly refreshing and hydrating sip!

Head to the farmers market

No matter where you live, the farmers market is the best in summer. Take advantage of your local, seasonal produce and skip the grocery store. Spend more time outside as you stroll through the farmers market stands, while picking up healthy food that will taste better than anything not in season or shipping from somewhere far away. If you really want to challenge yourself, try growing a garden in your backyard. Start with growing herbs, like basil, for a truly rewarding experience. 

Treat your hair to a deep conditioning mask

Give your hair some much-needed nourishment with a deep conditioning mask. The sun dries out your hair and can even fade your color. A mask can help protect your hair and keep it hydrated. In fact, we recommend applying a mask before going swimming to avoid chlorine or salt water from drying out your locks. 

Speaking of hair, schedule your next trim

Summer is the season of frizz and split ends. In addition to avoiding hot tools as much as you can, make sure you’re staying on top of your hair appointments. Regular trims will keep your hair healthy, smooth, and to many people’s surprise—growing long!

In the evening, exfoliate

Wash away dead skin cells and dry skin with an exfoliating face wash a few times a week. Exfoliating will not only help your summer skin radiate and shine, but it will help remove any dead skin from the harsh winter months. 

Sleep deep with a hydrating night cream

Sleep soundly knowing your skin is recovering and rehydrating from a dry, hot summer day. Use a hydrating night cream to replenish your skin and let it repair overnight. Look for a cream with hyaluronic acid for best results. 

How do you take care of yourself in the summertime?