Alex (Drummond) Scott has one person to thank for getting her into skincare: her mom! Ree used to let Alex play with her lotions back in the day. And when Ree went for facials, says Alex, “she would ask them to give me and Paige a little-kid facial, and we loved it. Sometimes, when my grandma visited, we would all pamper ourselves with masks.” Ree also gave her girls an early lesson in sun protection: “We inherited my mom’s fair skin, and from day one she has stressed the importance of wearing sunscreen,” says Alex. Give your skin the ultimate TLC this season and keep it clear, healthy and radiant while you’re at it. Here are some expert tips and helpful products.
The Essentials
Neutrogena Light Moisturizer
The creamy kind of moisturizer most of us use may be overkill right now. “During summer, humid air is already full of moisture,” says Tulsa dermatologist Jeff Alexander. Choose an oil-free formula like a gel, which goes on nice and light.
La Roche-Posay Foaming Cleanser
Face washes that foam are particularly good for reducing oil. “If your skin tends to get very oily, use it morning and night,” says Austin-based celebrity aesthetician Renée Rouleau.
CeraVe Body Wash with Salicylic Acid
Sweat can lead to body acne. “Salicylic acid helps clear pores by penetrating their lining to break up dead skin cells,” says Renée. This body wash is a favorite among the pros.
EltaMD Lip Balm with SPF
The skin on your lips is thinner than in other areas. Protect it with a balm that has at least SPF 30, says Westport, CT, dermatologist Deanne Mraz Robinson.
The Best Masks for Summer Skin
Kiehl's Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque
If you have dry skin from all the AC, apply a super-moisturizing overnight mask to reduce dry patches. This one is fragrance-free.
Sun Bum Sun Bum Skin Care Restoring Facial Mask
For excessive sun exposure, use a mask with cooling ingredients such as aloe. This pick also contains soothing algae.
Paula's Choice CLEAR Purifying Clay Face Mask
Clay masks soak up oil and make your skin feel extra clean. Alex’s go-to has salicylic acid to help reduce breakouts.
Self-Tan Plan
No more streaky mess: Nashville spray-tan artist Mally Harrington tells us how to get even, natural color with self-tanners.
- Prep your skin. Exfoliate your entire body several times during the week before you self-tan, and moisturize daily. The silkier your skin, the better.
- Start from the bottom. Rub self-tanner on your feet, then work your way up to your neck. (If you do your arms and torso first and then lean over to do your legs, you could smudge what’s already done.) Use a self-tan applicator mitt and move in circular motions.
- Keep on moisturizing. Self-tanner can be drying, so keep applying moisturizer daily to maintain sheen. Skip products with mineral oil, which can strip the color.
Fast Ways to Glow
Tanologist Tanologist Face and Body Drops
Just mix these tanning drops into moisturizer.
Jergens Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer
You can apply this tanner in the shower.
Loving Tan Loving Tan Platinum Mousse
Mousse formulas dry quickly so you can tan and go.
