The dog days of summer are almost here and while you may love the warmer weather and longer days, some of the most enjoyable parts of summer can mess with your sleep cycle. Things like increased light, heat and socializing can negatively impact sleep. Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist known as the "sleep doctor" and fellow of The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has some strategies to combat these obstacles and help you get a better night of sleep.

Mistake #1: Nighttime skincare in bright bathroom lights

Since we're already getting increased sunlight exposure from longer summer days additional exposure to light in the evening can lead to later bedtimes and less hours of sleep. Breus recommends limiting light exposure in the evening from things like indoor lights, lamps, or screens. This may also mean altering your nightly skin care routine. "A lot of people take off makeup or do a skincare routine right before bed in this tremendously brightly lit mirror," says Breus. Depending on the brightness of your bathroom or mirror lights and the length of your skincare routine, this can really mess with your sleep. In addition to avoiding indoor light exposure right before bed, Breus recommends trying blackout curtains and eye masks.

Mistake #2: Exercising within 2-3 hours of bedtime

“Exercising raises the body’s core temperature and it can remain raised for hours after our workout ends,” says Breus. "If you're too hot, you don’t get the melatonin release and that can inhibit your sleep.” Breus also recommends keeping your bedroom temperature at about 65 to 68 degrees at night, which is optimal for sleeping. During the summer, use air conditioning, fans and window shades to keep the bedroom cooler.

Mistake #3: Drinking alcohol right before you go to sleep

People’s social lives are livelier in summer, leading to them drink more alcohol, eat later and socialize a little later. Since alcohol can interfere with sleep it's never a good idea to imbibe too close to your bedtime. "While this pertains to all times of the year, some people may find they drink alcohol more commonly in the summer, so it's best to avoid it for several hours before bed," says Breus.