Get That Summer Glow

Exfoliants and Sun Protection

Summer skin can be synonymous with smooth, bump-free skin when you make a rich exfoliant part of your beauty routine. Not only will exfoliating leave your skin enviably soft, but it also guarantees that other summer staples, such as self-tanner and moisturizer, go on a lot more evenly. Plus, today's formulas, scented with mood-enhancing aromatherapy oils and moisturizing oils, have transformed this essential step into a fun, indulgent one.

When choosing an exfoliator, note whether it's for your body or face. Those for the body tend to feature larger grains that are perfect for tougher skin but too aggressive for delicate facial skin. For the best results, rub the grains on your arms, legs, and buttocks before showering, while your skin is still dry. Without water to get in its way, the product will better adhere to your dry skin. Then, jump in the shower, rinse off the scrub and carry on with your regular cleansing routine. You'll relish the smooth-as-silk effect!

You've heard it a dozen times before, but it definitely bears repeating: don't step into the glare of the summer sun without a hearty coating of sun protection. Even while running around town -- let alone lying on the beach -- your face is vulnerable to the sun's damaging rays.

Look for products with a high SPF (sun protection factor); SPF 15 is adequate for daily use and common in many moisturizers, but you should aim for an SPF 30, which guards your skin for up to 30 times longer than you'd ordinarily need without any sun protection. Check the labels for zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide the best barrier against skin-damaging UVA and UVB rays. Most brands now feature micronized technology that makes the formulas super-sheer and undetectable -- perfect to wear under makeup. That's what we call fun in the sun.