
May in the lunar calendar is called Satsuki, and Satsuki means rice seedlings offered to the gods. It is also said to be an abbreviation of Sanaezuki, which means rice planting season. It is a comfortable and optimal season for skin, but May 5th is the beginning of summer in the lunar calendar, and the season is heading towards early summer, so skin care in preparation for summer is required. Here are some tips for a summer-prepared beauty lifestyle to keep in mind in May.
The skin environment is "comfortable and stable," but UV rays are at an alarming level
According to weather data for Tokyo in May 2020, the average temperature was 19.5°C and the average humidity was 75%, both of which were comfortable. In terms of temperature and humidity, this season can be described as a "comfortable and stable" environment for the skin. Last year, the average humidity was slightly higher, and it seems that the long period of rain from mid-month onwards had an impact, but the temperature remained at a comfortable level, so I don't think anyone felt uncomfortable.
However, in May, the sunlight hitting your skin will reach warning levels. Normally, the longest daylight hours occur in June, when the summer solstice occurs, and June should have the longest daylight hours of the year, but May, with its many sunny days, has longer hours of sunlight and a more comfortable climate. However, the only thing you need to be careful about at the warning level is how to protect yourself from sunlight.
According to the UV index data for Tokyo in May last year, most days were strong orange, and some days were very strong red. During this time of year when skin is exposed more, in addition to using sunscreen, you should also take measures against the sun, such as wearing a parasol, hat, or thin long-sleeved cardigan. If you are not careful, your skin will not be able to survive the approaching summer.
Monthly trend of daily maximum UV index in May 2020

Be careful, your skin may also be affected by May Sickness!
Although we managed to get through April with a sense of tension, the stress caused by the change in our living environment manifests itself after the Golden Week holiday as symptoms such as sleepiness, lethargy, and lack of motivation. This is called "May Sickness." The rhythm of life has changed due to self-restraint and teleworking, which can lead to various disorders. Have not only your rhythm of life but also your diet changed significantly? As a way to maintain your rhythm of life, it may be a good idea to use bath salts with your favorite scent when taking a bath before going to bed to help you fall asleep and to make your bedroom more likely to let in the morning sunlight. It is also effective to wake up refreshed with the power of the morning sun. During sleep, growth hormone is secreted, which is an important time for cell growth and repair.
Preventing and overcoming May Sickness is also important for beauty.
This year's Golden Week, many people probably spent some relaxing time at home, right?
Why not set aside some time to take your time and do your skincare routine, which is something we usually do in a short amount of time, and enjoy it while you look after your skin? Enjoy your skincare routine as a moment to release yourself from the stress of everyday life. Let's enjoy skincare time!
We have brought you some tips for a summer-prepared beauty lifestyle that you should keep in mind in May.
Next time, I would like to give you some tips on skin care during the rainy season.