Ten Ways to Protect Your Skin Over Summer
It almost goes without saying, but even if you are blessed with melanin, the sun can do a lot of damage to your skin. In a country where two in three people will be diagnosed with some type of skin cancer before they turn 70, it is important to take steps to ensure that your skin is protected over the Summer months. Not only does the sun damage your skin medically, but it can also cause cosmetic and aesthetic issues to your skin- so it is a good idea all round to protect our body’s largest organ. Here are 10 ways you can protect your skin this Summer.
1. Invest in a good sunscreen.
Not just essential for Summer, sunscreen should be apart of any beauty routine. It is the best way to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays. You can now purchase moisturisers and foundations that contain sunscreen, so there is no excuse to not take measures. It is also worth investing in the highest SPF possible. Stay on top of the application too, as sunscreen does not to be reapplied throughout the day.
2. Keep it Covered
We know, you want to show off your new bikini but after you have your essential Summer Instagram photoshoot, it is time to cover up. While you look amazing, covering up is another way to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays. Light long-sleeved tops styled with wide brim hats and shades are not just a look, but it is a great way to stay protected.
3. As Always, Hydrate!
Drink your water, stay hydrated. Not only will it ensure that you do not suffer any of the issues involved with dehydration, it also works to keep your skin healthy too. What goes into your body, is reflected on the outside so make sure you don’t forget that H20.
4. Don’t Get too Chlorinated
The best thing about Summer is relaxing in the pool and spa. While we do not want to rob you of that pleasure, just be mindful of the impact the chlorine, or even bromine can have on your skin over long periods- especially if you are sensitive. Always wash your skin thoroughly with lukewarm or cool water and if necessary, invest in a barrier cream to apply before you go in for a dip.
5. Keep It Light
As the weather changes, so should your skincare routine. Switch from those heavier oils, especially if you live in humid conditions. That way your skin does not get too clogged from the added moisture and sweat on the skin.
6. Stay in the Shade
If you do have to go out in the sun, staying out of the rays and keeping to the shade is another way to protect your skin. This is especially in the hottest parts of the afternoon where the sun is at it’s most dangerous. If you are game, you can always bring out the sun parasol too- it should never have gone out of style!
7. Moisturise
Particularly if you live in our drier cities, keep your skin moisturised is important to replace the oils that may be lost from being exposed to the sun and/or sweat. If you have oily skin, don’t avoid moisturising but invest in a lighter weight moisturiser. Hot tip: if you don’t already, keep your moisturiser in the fridge (if the product is compatible) and it will be a nice relief on hot skin.
8. Vitamin C
Investing in a vitamin C serum is something that should be year-round but it’s particularly important in Summer. It helps prevent that hyperpigmentation that can come, as well as the signs of damage that happen in summer.
9. Fake it.
Skip the real one, in this case, there is nothing wrong with faking it. Lying out in the sun for a tan is one of the surest ways to damage your skin, so if you want that gorgeous bronzed Summer skin- a spray tan or a self-tanner is a safer alternative.
10. If you do get Sunburnt…
If you happen to get sunburnt, unfortunately, that happens to the best of us. How you look after it though can have an impact on just how much long-term damage it causes. Getting sunburnt once won’t guarantee you to get cancer, but the overall time spent. If you do get burnt; keep it moisturised, take cold showers and stay out of the sun to prevent further damage. Ibuprofen or aspirin will help with the pain and swelling, do not pick the blisters. Baby your skin and next time try not to forget the sunscreen!
While these will not guarantee that your skin will not be damaged, unfortunately just where we live has a high exposure to the suns damaging rays. Taking steps to protect your skin not only helps prevents cancer, but it can prevent premature aging and visible damage to your skin too.
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