Summer is almost here, and along with summer vacations and backyard barbeques come the intense rays of the summer sun. The summer sun can wreak havoc on your skin, your body’s largest organ.
If you want to avoid the damage unprotected sun exposure can cause, such as wrinkles, dark spots, dryness, premature aging, and cancer, it’s important to take steps to protect the health of your skin.
At Sublime Aesthetic Professionals, with two offices in East Grand Forks, Minnesota, Angie Bjorgaard, RN, BSN, and our care team want to help you protect your skin this summer and all year long. We offer a comprehensive line of skin care services to help you look and feel your best.
We’ve curated this list of tips to help you keep your skin healthy this summer season. Read on to learn more!
1. Don’t forget the sunscreen
Although we know wearing sunscreen is important, a recent study found few men and women actually apply it to their skin before going outdoors. Protect your skin this summer by regularly using sunblock every day — even when it’s cloudy!
Be sure to choose a sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30 and protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. Apply at least one ounce (about enough to fill a shot glass) to exposed skin 15 minutes before going outdoors. You’ll need to reapply at least every two hours and more frequently if you’re splashing in the water.
If you wear makeup, select products with SPF to add layers of sun protection. Use a daily moisturizer with built-in SPF protection, and don’t forget to protect the delicate skin of your lips and ears! Apply sunscreen to the tops and backs of your ears to keep the skin safe, and choose lipstick or lip balm with SPF protection.
2. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Drinking plenty of water is important when it comes to the health of your skin. In the summer, the intense sun rays and heat dry out your skin more than normal, making it even more essential to stay hydrated.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and don’t wait until you feel thirsty to sip water as this is a sign that you’re already in the early stages of dehydration. If plain water isn’t your thing, stay hydrated by drinking flavored or sparkling water or munching on fruits and veggies high in water content, like cucumbers.
3. Pay attention to clothing and accessory choices
When it’s hot and sunny out, you may feel like you should be wearing less clothing, not more. But covering your skin is one of the best ways to protect your skin during the summer months.
When possible, wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes made from natural fabrics, like cotton or linen. Even better? Try wearing clothes with built-in SPF/UPF protection if you’ll be spending time outdoors.
Some accessories also help protect your skin. Sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection help stop sun damage on the skin around your eyes, while a wide-brimmed hat provides much-needed protection to the delicate skin on your face, ears, and neck.
4. Seek shade during peak sun hours
The sun is at its most intense between 10 am and 4 pm. This is when your skin is at the highest risk for sunburn and sun damage. When possible, plan ahead, and avoid extended outdoor activities during these intense sun hours.
If you can’t avoid peak sun hours, look for shade to keep your skin protected. Use an umbrella, trees, or other sun-shelters to find some relief from the sun’s intense rays. One rule of thumb to remember is that if your shadow is shorter than you, it’s a good idea to find shade!
5. Keep skin fresh with a facial
Keep your facial skin healthy and looking its best by scheduling regular facial treatments. Facials rejuvenate the skin by removing dead cells and allowing new skin cells to flourish.
The Sublime Signature Eminence Facial combines deep cleansing, toning, exfoliation, and extractions with a masque and deep moisturizing treatments. We customize your facial to meet your unique concerns and skin care needs.
Looking for more help protecting your skin this summer? The caring providers at Sublime Aesthetic Professionals can help. Contact the office nearer to you, or request an appointment online today!