How I Keep My Skin Moisturized In The Summer

Problems with moisturized skin seem like they should only be a problem in the winter when the cold air sucks the moisture right out of you. But staying moisturized is also a summer issue.

In the summer, my skin can take a beating. What with all the exposure to the summer sun, the summer heat, salt, and chlorine, air drying after multiple dips in the pool and ocean, and air conditioners? All of these things individually do a number on my skin, but when even a couple of them are put together, it's even worse.

As a result, I tend to experience dry skin, ashy skin, and skin that feels tight and itchy in the summer months. To alleviate this dryness and get that desired summer glow, I've employed five techniques.

(I received the Olay product mentioned in this post free to test, but all opinions are my own. This post includes affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, I may make a small commission.)

1. Use a moisturizing body wash

Just like with your hair, the products you use can set the stage for how moisturized or not your skin feels. I used to shower with a cheap bar soap that dried out my skin. I've now switched to using a moisturizing body wash. The body wash that I'm currently using is the Olay Ultra Moisture with Shea Butter, which can be purchased at Amazon, CVS, Target, and Walmart. After my showers, my skin feels moisturized and smooth. It doesn't feel tight, dry, or itchy.

2. Pat dry instead of rubbing dry

After I shower and even wash my hands, I try to pat my skin dry instead of rubbing or even wiping. I've found that patting helps keep moisture instead of taking it away. Mostly because it leaves my skin damp. Patting dry also doesn't irritate my skin, which can cause itching.

3. Apply lotion to damp skin

To make sure I'm keeping moisture in my skin, I apply lotion to my damp skin. The lotion helps trap the moisture from the water. If you've seen any of the in-shower body lotions, this is kind of the same thing, except the lotion isn't rinsed off after applying it.

I've found the key is to use a lightweight lotion so my skin doesn't feel weighed down or greasy. The lotion I use is a cocoa butter-based store-brand lotion. It does have petroleum jelly, which is great for the winter, but for me, it doesn't feel too thick or heavy.

Related read: How I Switch Up My Beauty Products For Summer

4. Exfoliate

You may think exfoliation would dry out your skin. It can, if not done properly or with the right type of product. I like an exfoliating scrub that isn't harsh but soothing instead. I haven't found a brand I like to use on my body, but I've used some DIY exfoliating scrubs using ingredients like sugar, tea tree oil, and coconut oil.

5. Carry a water bottle with me everywhere

Some of the best moisturization happens from the inside out. When I'm not hydrated, I feel it in my skin. When I'm hydrated, I feel it on my skin. So I make it my business to drink more water throughout the day. To help me stay hydrated, I carry a water bottle with me whenever I go out. That way, I have easy access to water and have no excuse to go hours without drinking anything.