Now that the days are longer, more people are going to be spending time outside. However before you head out, listen to what the dermatologists have to say about sun exposure. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that 90% of visible changes to the skin are caused by sun exposure. To enjoy this beautiful summer season and avoid the most common skin problems at the same time follow these doctor-approved skincare tips.
1. Moisturize Your Skin
A lot of people think that you should only apply moisturizer to combat dry and flaky skin. This is why people are diligent with applying moisturizers during winter months and neglect this vital skincare step during warmer days. However, your skin actually needs to be soothed and hydrated all year long!
Moisturizers are essential in your summer skincare routine because the heat is dehydrating. This product can also protect your skin from pollutants, bacteria, and photodamage. For this season, try to look for a water-based moisturizer that can hydrate your skin without leaving a sticky and heavy residue on you.
2. Invest in Vitamin C Products
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can brighten and protect your skin, making it the best skincare ingredient for the summer. Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd states that this powerful antioxidant prevents hyperpigmentation by blocking excess melanin production. Plus, it shields your skin from damaging free radicals that are caused by environmental pollutants and UV rays.
Integrate vitamin C into your skin brightening routine by using intensive toners or tone correcting treatments. Apply these products every morning so that you can repair your uneven skin tone and defend your skin from pollutants before you start your day!
3. Apply Sunscreen Daily
Dr. Michelle Henry emphasizes that sunscreen is an essential product to use every single day. Along with your skincare products containing vitamin C, sunscreen serves as a barrier against the sun’s harmful rays. This helps reduce your risk against sunburn, skin cancer, and other skin disorders.
Sunscreen should be the last product you use in your morning skincare routine. However, you need to reapply every two hours, especially if you are going swimming or if you’re sweating due to physical activity. You also need to use sunscreen with at least SPF 50 if you plan to stay outside for more than an hour.
4. Use Protective Clothing
You can never be too safe! Dr. Eric Howell advises that, besides applying sunscreen, you can take care of your skin by using sun-protective clothing. Shirts or hats with thin materials might provide some comfort and ventilation during warm days, but they offer very little security against harmful UV rays.
Additionally, Dr. Howell warns that light-colored cotton shirts offer the least amount of protection from the sun. So opt to use comfortable shirts with at least UPF 30 when you go to the beach. Additionally, shield your scalp and your face from the sun using a wide-brimmed hat. Make sure that it is made of a thick material that can fully block out light.
5. Stay in the Shade
Harmful UV rays are much stronger during the spring and summer months. Plus, these can be even more damaging to your skin in the middle of the day!
So, be more mindful of your exposure to the sun during peak burn hours, which is between 10 AM to 4 PM. Try to reapply sunscreen more often or wear a large hat if you need to be outside during these times.
The sun’s harmful UV rays can cause photoaging, uneven skin tone, sunburn, and even a wide variety of skin diseases! You can protect your skin from these problems and enjoy the warmth of summer by establishing a skincare routine, wearing protective clothing, and minimizing your sun exposure.
