Your skin covers your entire body and is your body’s largest organ! That’s why it is so important to protect it from external elements like extreme sun exposure, UV rays, topical treatments, and pollutants. During the summertime, protecting your skin is even more important so get into the daily habit of incorporating the following 10 tips.
Daily Sunscreen Use
This might seem obvious, but sunscreen (even on a cloudy day) is your skin’s best defense. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (and consider a daily moisturizer that has SPF in it) daily. Cover all exposed areas and especially your face and neck. If you are swimming, in direct sun like on a beach, or perspiring, be sure to reapply.
Search for Shade
Make seeking out shady areas a priority. This is especially true during the sun’s peak hours between 10 AM and 4 PM. If you are going somewhere that is relatively open, bring shade with you like an umbrella or chair cover.
Cover Up
From head to toe, dress in clothing that provides an additional layer of protection for your skin. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing made with UPF materials. Especially if you are in direct sunlight for extended periods of time, wear a hat (preferably a wide-brimmed one) and a long-sleeved shirt/cover up, and pants.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
Proper hydration supports all of the body’s functions and is essential to maintaining healthy skin. Drink plenty of water to keep your body and skin hydrated. Hydration will help the skin avoid dryness, irritation from too much sun, and elasticity.
Practice Cleansing
Washing your face with an appropriate cleanser that is gentle and non-abrasive helps remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Be mindful of harsh ingredients that can strip your skin of its natural protective barrier.
Moisturize
Even when taking precautions, hydrate your skin from the outside with a good moisturizer daily. Doing so will help your skin maintain its natural barrier and prevent it from drying out and becoming more susceptible to damage. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to help lock in moisture.
Wear Your Sunglasses, Too
Sunglasses aren’t just an accessory. They play an important role in protecting your eyes from strong UV rays and the delicate skin around your eyes. And considering your face and eyes are most often exposed, it’s important to take extra care when protecting these areas from the sun.
Avoid Sunburn
Limit your time in the sun and take all the necessary precautions to avoid sunburn. Seek shade, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen and proper clothing, and don’t allow your body to bake in the sun. If you do experience sunburn, seek shelter from the sun immediately and stay out of direct sun while you heal, take cool showers, and use hydrocortisone cream.
Do A Skin Exam
Give your skin a once-over monthly to check for any abnormalities. Are there any marks or discolorations that weren’t there previously? If you spot anything concerning or unusual, consult a dermatologist.
Coverage
Tend to your whole body. Pay special attention to areas you might often miss like feet, ears, or your back. Be adamant about covering these areas of skin that are hard to reach or often forgotten about. If used properly, consider spray sunscreens as they provide wider coverage.
Prioritize these safe skin practices all summer long to leave your skin glowing, healthy, and protected. Whether you are enjoying a carefree summer or incorporating healthy habits into your usual routine, remember these ten skin protection tips.