Skin Care Secrets

Esthetician Emma Skog gives readers her best summer skin care tips.
Salon Ultimo esthetician Emma Skog.

While we’re grateful for the warmth after our cold Minnesota winters, the hot and humid summer days can really take a toll on our skin. “Some humidity can actually be good for your skin; it will keep it hydrated,” says Emma Skog of Salon Ultimo. “When it gets really humid, however, sweat stays on our skin longer and can cause blocked pores. Humidity can stimulate our sebaceous glands, which makes our skin look more oily.” Skog was named “Best Esthetician” in Woodbury Magazine’s Best of 2016 issue, so we asked for her best summer skin care advice.

Exfoliate skin on a regular basis; Skog recommends twice weekly. “Removing dead surface cells helps keep pores clean so you don’t break out,” she says.

Try mattifying primer to create a smooth surface and even out skin tone.

Use blotting papers or a translucent powder throughout the day to reduce facial shine.

Protect your skin with a broad spectrum sunscreen. “Sun damage is the No. 1 cause for premature aging,” Skog says. She suggests at least 50 SPF to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.