Healthy skin is slightly acidic, due to the acid mantle which
covers it. The acid mantle is a combination of sebum and
perspiration designed to protect the skin from the environment.
Each day we lose 850 ml of water through perspiration, so
drinking water is helpful in replacing this lost fluid. During
the summer, water loss is more rapid, and humid conditions
accelerate water loss through the skin as the body attempts to
cool itself. As a result, sebum production increases, collecting
on the skin and clogging pores. For many, this process results
in breakouts, so regular cleansing is recommended.

A good skin care regimen for most skin types during the summer
months is the following:

1. Cleansing with a natural, vegetable soap or soap-based
cleanser. 2. Exfoliation, not exceeding once or twice per week
3. Hydrate your skin with an alcohol free, natural toner or fill
a clean, sterile spray bottle with filtered water and mist over
the face after cleansing or exfoliation. 4. Moisturize with a
light, all natural moisturizer. Creams and lotions with
petroleum based ingredients tend to clog the pores
unnecessarily. 5. Massage a face oil or moisturizer into the
skin at night. Massaging serves to increase circulation to the
skin, which helps the natural rejuvenation processes which take
place during sleep. 6. Keep lips protected and moisturized with
a lip balm, lip gloss or lipstick, preferably containing a
natural sunblock such as titanium dioxide. 7.Cover up to reduce
the amount of exposure to the sun with a wide brimmed hat, long
and loose fitting clothing. Ninety percent of skin cancers are
due to chronic sun damage and eighty percent of wrinkles arise
from photoaging.

Any skin care discourse which does not include a discussion of
nutrition is lacking a fundamental principle of healthy skin
care. Good health and beauty are synonymous. For instance, a
clogged and spotty complexion can be linked to a diet high in
saturated fats and sugar. Sensitive skin may become worsened by
poor digestion or inadequate absorption of nutrients. Dry flaky
skin may reflect a diet low in fatty acids or vitamin E. Skin
that does not heal quickly may be low in vitamins A, B6, C or
zinc. A healthy, varied diet helps the skin defend itself
against infection, cell damage and premature aging, especially
during the summer months. Increasing your daily intake of fresh,
raw vegetables and fruit adds vitamins, antioxidants and water
to your diet. Take advantage of the increased variety of fresh
foods available during the summer, since a good diet is one of
the essential elements for healthy, glowing skin.