The summer heat can do a number on your skin, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. You may face clogged pores from sweating in the heat, which can lead to breakouts and other skin difficulties. And don't forget the damage that a sunburn can cause. Take a look at some tips for protecting your skin this summer and keeping it in great shape.

Apply Sunscreen The Right Way

You know that you have to wear sunscreen to avoid burns. The risk of skin cancer is just too high. However, if you're not applying it correctly, you still may be taking chances with your skin. You should apply at least a tablespoon of SPF 25 or higher sunscreen to your face, and it should take about two ounces to cover your body. This is one case where less is definitely not more, so don't be afraid to slather on a thick layer.

Your sunscreen should go on before your moisturizer and you should apply it at least 20 minutes before you go out in the sun. The chemicals need time to work. If you have to run out before the sunscreen has had time to settle in, put on some zinc oxide for immediate protection. It's also important to apply sunscreen every day, not just on beach days. You can sustain sun damage just going about your normal daily routine. Besides, sunscreen builds up in your stratum corneum (the outer layer of your skin) so applying it daily in the weeks before a long exposure to the sun, like a beach vacation, will give you more burn protection.

Exfoliate For Clearer Skin

Between your sunscreen, your makeup, and whatever air pollution or dust you happen to come in contact with during the day, it's no wonder that your pores get clogged during the summer. Getting overheated and sweating can add to the problem, and lead to ugly breakouts. However, you can keep your skin clearer by making exfoliation a part of your everyday morning skin care routine if it isn't already.

Exfoliate first, then follow up with your favorite moisturizer. The exfoliation will clean out your pores, and the moisturizer seals in moisture so that you don't end up with skin that's too dry.

Get Extra Hydration

If your skin is dry and flaky, or if you're recovering from a sunburn, you have to find a way to moisturize from the inside out. Getting proper hydration is important for your health, but it's also a good way to keep your skin looking fresh.

Of course, the best way to hydrate is by drinking extra water. However, if you're having trouble getting extra fluids into your system, you can compensate by choosing foods that are high in water. Luckily, a lot of the best summer treats actually contain a lot of water. Watermelon, for example, contains about 92% water, so a slice or two of watermelon is a great way to get some extra hydration if you're sick of plain water. Berries, oranges, and leafy green vegetables are also high in water content.

Your skin shouldn't suffer just because it's the summertime. If you make the effort to take care of it, you'll look terrific all summer and protect yourself from the kind of long-term damage that doesn't show up until later. For more information, consider contacting a dermatologist like those at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists of Moreno Valley.