For many of us, the focus of summer is spending time with friends and family and enjoying the beautiful weather. Since the temperatures are enjoyable and perfect for lounging by the pool, hosting garden parties, and heading to the beach, most of the time spent with loved ones is outdoors. While time under the sun is great for working on the coveted “healthy glow,” it’s also a time where our sensitive skin can suffer in the name of becoming a bronze beauty. If you don’t practice self-care during all that time under the sun, you can quickly end up with some summer skin woes. Let’s look at how to protect your skin and keep it healthy during the summer months.
Made in the shade
One of the easiest ways to protect your skin while still enjoying the beautiful weather during the summer is to keep things made in the shade. Headed to the beach? Bring an umbrella. Enjoying your backyard through endless BBQs, parties, and simple days with your family? Invest in a beautiful gazebo or yard canopy. Relaxing at a park while your kiddos play? Enjoy watching them from under the shade of an old tree. There are countless ways to find shade, and your skin will thank you for finding some during the dog days of summer.
Sun protection factor
We’re all familiar with SPF (sun protection factor) and how important it is to use it not only during the summer but fall and winter. When it comes to SPF, you want to ensure you’re doing it right. Before heading to the pool, oceanside, or just out for a walk, make sure you apply to your face and body. Use formulas specifically created for your delicate facial skin and a separate product for your body. Additionally, if you go swimming or sweat a lot, you want to reapply when you get out of the water. Lastly, if you’re outdoors for extended periods, ensure you reapply your SPF every three hours to give you maximum protection.
Target issues
Many people can see the immediate effects of the sun on their skin. If you have this skin type, it’s best to avoid being outdoors during peak sun hours (from noon to three), but if you must be outside, be on the lookout for issues and correct them immediately. Skin concerns like burns can be treated with aloe, but a dermatologist should address more serious skin issues like melasma or unwanted freckles. Leathery and rough skin can also occur from too much sun damage, so make sure you’re using a deep moisturizer at night after spending a day in the sun. If you have eczema, intense sunlight can trigger a flare, so use targeted eczema cream when you come in at the end of the day. The bottom line- address issues before they become bigger and harder to treat.
Work your wardrobe
Not everything needed to protect your skin from the sun is in your medicine cabinet. Your clothing plays a vital role in your skin’s health during the summer. Large sun hats or visors are critical in protecting your delicate facial skin from harsh UV rays. Did you know that too much sun exposure can accelerate fine lines and wrinkles aging your skin? Ditch the Botox and invest in a stylish hat to protect your face instead! Opt for a pair of cute sunglasses to shield the delicate skin around your eyes. If you’re spending time in the ocean, a swim shirt or rashguard is your best friend. Cute swimsuits have their place by the pool for an hour or two, but if you’re spending all day in the sun, style yourself accordingly to keep your skin healthy.
Mind your meds
Some medications, including short-term medications like antibiotics and longer-term like blood pressure medications, can make you more susceptible to sun damage. Ensure you’re checking with your pharmacist or GP while taking prescription medications before spending long periods under the sun.
Taking care of your skin is a breeze during the summer, especially if you implement the above-mentioned ways to stay healthy. Investing in your skin today means you’ll enjoy better health and a more youthful, radiant complexion. If you really want a bronze, opting for a spray tan is best. Here’s to your (skin) health!