When the seasons change, your skin might require a little more TLC. During the summer, the UV rays are the strongest, and your body is more likely to become dehydrated due to excessive heat, which can affect the skin.
When your skin is exposed to UV rays, you're leaving yourself more susceptible to skin cancer and early aging. Even though you may not see it right away, it's always better to be proactive when protecting your skin. Here are five tips for summer-safe skin that you can start practicing today!
The best advice during summertime, and really any season, is to wear your SPF! Skin Cancer is one of the leading cancers, and it's one that we can help to prevent. Investing in high-quality SPF will ensure that your skin is protected. Skincare professionals will advise that you put on your sunscreen in the morning as the last step in your skincare routine; however, applying sunscreen once is not enough to protect you all day.
No matter how high, the sun protection factor in your sunscreen can begin declining within two hours of application, so reapplying throughout the day is the key to keeping your skin safe. It is essential that you not only put sunscreen on your face but on any areas of the skin that will be exposed to the sun at some point in the day. Here are some of the most neglected areas to take note of so you remember them for next time:
Besides the fact that the shade keeps you cool, it also helps to limit the amount of UV exposure to the skin. The sun is at its strongest between 10 am – 3 pm, so it's best to stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible during these times to prevent sunburn and other forms of sun damage. Not only are UV rays harmful, but they can increase body temperature, which can cause risks to our health (like becoming more easily dehydrated) and our skin.
On those sunny days when you're by the pool or at the beach, an umbrella will come in handy for creating your shade! Just remember, while shade provides more protection from the sun, it does not replace the need for your sunscreen!
We live in a time where clothing can further protect our bodies from UV Exposure. In fact, some clothes are specially made to reflect UV rays! Sun shirts are often lightweight and moisture-wicking so that they can be comfortable on even some of the warmest days. One quick search for "SPF clothing," and you'll find plenty of options that can keep you protected from the sun for hours to come.
This type of clothing is especially beneficial for our lighter Fitzpatrick levels, who tend to burn quickly, but remember, all skin tones need protection. So, if you plan to spend a lot of time outside, whether it's gardening, hanging out by the water, or working outdoors, it's wise to invest!
Hats are also an excellent source of protection as they shade our faces. Since our face is often the most exposed part of our body, wearing wide-brim hats or even a baseball cap to shield your face from the sun can provide an extra layer of protection in addition to your SPF.
Staying hydrated during the summer months is crucial. Our bodies are made of at least 60% water, and as our body's largest organ, the skin thrives when we keep hydrated, although it is the last to be replenished with water.
When you are dehydrated, your body cannot eliminate toxins through your skin, making your skin more susceptible to skin problems and disorders, such as dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, discoloration, and even premature wrinkling.
Drinking water is essential to your overall health, and since you're more likely to sweat out your hydration in the summer, you'll have to be even more proactive in staying hydrated. Here are a few helpful tips for remembering to drink water:
Your necessary water intake is primarily based on your weight, activity level, and gender. Still, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has determined that 15.5 cups of fluids a day for men and 11.5 cups of fluids a day for women is sufficient. You can also use a water intake calculator to determine better what you need to stay healthy and hydrated!
Wearing SPF is a must when spending time outside, but so is using the correct skin care regimen! Spending hours outdoors is good for the mind, body, and soul, but it is so vital that we protect against UV exposure and the harmful free radicals it can release into the body. Focus on picking skincare products that contain ingredients that heal, hydrate, and are loaded with antioxidants! Antioxidants combat free radicals and prevent them from potentially causing future damage. CBD and Vitamin C are two of the strongest antioxidants for replenishing the skin before and after those long summer days.
If you are prone to hyperpigmentation from the sun, you should also incorporate tyrosinase inhibitors into your routine. These ingredients directly or indirectly inhibit the production of melanin in your skin. They can treat almost every form of pigmentation, perfect for keeping those sun spots at bay!
GlyMed Plus has you covered with various sunscreens and summer-friendly products to keep your skin healthy and protected on even the sunniest days. Talk to your GlyMed Pro for more summer-safe skincare techniques and product recommendations!