7 Tips to Help Protect Your Skin This Summer

While it’s a well-known fact that winter weather causes dry peeling skin, we often overlook the significance of summer skincare. We’re all busy spending more time outside enjoying the sunshine, but along with all that warmth and fun, sun exposure can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. By following a few simple tips for sun protection in summer, you can keep your skin healthy and protected. Here are seven sun protection tips to help you safeguard your skin and enjoy the sun safely.

Apply Sunscreen

It’s like a shield against the sun! Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF of 30 or higher. This will protect your skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. Remember to generously apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your skin and don’t neglect commonly overlooked areas like the back of your neck and ears. Be sure to reapply every two hours especially if you’ve been swimming or sweating.

Seek Shade

Whenever possible, and especially during the sun’s peak hours between 10am and 4pm, you should stay indoors or seek shade outside. Relaxing under an umbrella at the beach or finding shelter under a tree at the park will help you minimize direct exposure to harmful UV rays. Enjoying the outdoors while being mindful of the need to find shade will go a long way in reducing your skin’s exposure to the sun.

Wear Protective Clothing

Appropriate clothing provides an additional layer of protection against the sun. Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers your skin. Long-sleeved shirts and pants made from a breathable fabric like cotton make an excellent choice. You can even find specially designed clothing that provides Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) which blocks the sun’s rays. You also want to take care of your head and eyes by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses.

Stay Hydrated

Water intake is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, especially during the hot summer months. It keeps your skin hydrated from the inside, reducing dryness and promoting a glowing complexion. Consider always carrying a water bottle with you and make it a habit to drink water consistently, even when you aren’t noticeably thirsty.

Avoid Tanning Beds

While a gold tan might like nice, The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends avoiding tanning beds completely. According to them, “Indoor tanning can increase the risk of developing the two most common types of skin cancer—squamous cell carcinoma by 58% and basal cell carcinoma by 24%.” Instead of relying on tanning beds, consider using a self-tanning product to achieve the sun-kissed look you desire.

Take Care of Your Lips

Your lips are highly vulnerable to sun damage. You can protect them by using lip balm that contains SPF protection. Look for products with a broad-spectrum UV protection and make sure to apply it throughout the day. A good rule is to apply a fresh coat of lip balm every time you reapply your sunscreen. This will protect your lips, keep them moisturized, and prevent dryness and chapping.

Practice After-Sun Care

Even when you’re careful and follow all of these recommended precautions, sunburns can still happen, and it’s important to treat them quickly. Use a gentle moisturizer enriched with aloe vera to hydrate your skin and help alleviate any discomfort. Applying cool compresses or taking a cool shower can also make you feel more comfortable. Take extra precautions in order to avoid any further sun exposure until your skin has completely healed. 

Safe Summer Sun Fun

As you enjoy summer’s sunny days, remember to prioritize your skin’s health and protect it.  Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, seek shade, and wear protective clothing. Drink plenty of water, avoid tanning beds, and keep your lips moisturized with lip balm.  

At Sylvana, we’re here to help with all of your skincare needs. For more information or to see how we can help you, contact us today!