We’re the type who wishes summer could last forever. The next best thing, though? The longest day of the year, also known as the summer solstice. Marking the official start of the season, it’s the longest day of the year (which means more sun!). To celebrate our favorite date, we’re sharing a few essential summer body care tips.
First, What Is the Summer Solstice?
The word solstice translates to "sun standing still." It’s derived from the Latin words sol for "sun" and sistere, which means “to stand still.” During the summer solstice, the sun sits directly over the Tropic of Cancer, which runs through Mexico, The Bahamas, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, India, and southern China. It reaches its highest peak in the sky for every location north of this point.
Why the Summer Solstice Is a Time for Celebration
The longest day of the year calls for celebration. From sunrise gatherings to midsummer festivities, cultures worldwide mark the occasion with traditions, holidays, and festivals. In Rio de Janeiro, the summer solstice causes the city to come alive with festivities.
Switching Up Your Summer Body Care Routine
Longer, sunnier days mean more time in the sun. It also means your skin needs protection and the right body care for summer
Level Up Your Suncare Game
Sunscreen is a definite year-round essential. It’s especially important in summer when you may find yourself more outside than in. Check your suncare before you apply. The SPF number indicates for how long it protects.
Keep Odor at Bay
Higher temps tend to increase sebum production, which leads to oilier than usual skin in the summertime. This extends to your armpits. Adding aluminum-free, baking soda-free deodorant to your routine can eliminate odor to keep you smelling amazing from sunrise to sunset.
Prevent Dry, Frizzy Hair
Summer humidity sometimes spells frizz and dryness for hair. Opt for a repairing routine to keep hair smooth and healthy throughout the season.
Chlorine can also cause brittle strands. Before you dive into pool days, apply a coat of leave-in conditioner to protect your locks.
Keep Lips Hydrated
Summer sun, sand, and saltwater can cause lips to become dry and cracked. Get ahead by keeping them smooth with an ultra-nourishing lip balm.
Stay Moisturized
When it comes to summer body care, hydration is key. Dry skin is more prone to damage and susceptible to environmental aggressors like pollution, bacteria, and moisture loss.
Regularly apply a powerhouse body cream to keep skin hydrated despite exposure to sun.
When Is the Summer Solstice?
The summer solstice occurs when one of Earth's poles is tilted toward the sun at its most extreme angle, which happens twice a year. In the Northern Hemisphere, the solstice falls in June; at the same time winter starts in the Southern Hemisphere.
Summer solstice 2024 is June 20th for the Northern Hemisphere and December 21st for the Southern Hemisphere.
