Tips for Healthy Summer Skin

Now that summer is here we all want to hit the great outdoors and spend as much time out there as we can before winter creeps back up on us. Fresh air and sunshine are great for both body and mind, but we do have to remember that too much sun can be damaging to your skin and hair. In order to keep from getting sunburned skin and damaged locks make sure to follow these easy steps:

1. Never leave the house without slathering a good strong SPF that is 15 or higher on any part of your body that will be exposed. The good ol' days of laying out with nothing but baby oil to get a rapid tan are over. Sun kissed skin may look good but there is nothing chic about skin cancer or premature aging.

2. Use a lip balm that has an SPF of 25 or higher to protect your lips from sun burn. We often times forget to wear protection on our lips which are actually very sensitive to sun and wind and can become painfully sunburnt or chapped without proper care.

3. Sunglasses and wide brimmed hats are another great way to protect yourself from the sun's damaging rays. Too much sun can promote cataracts in your eyes as well as wrinkling around your eyelids so choose sunglasses that are truly sun protectant. Hats will help shade your face for even more protection as well as keep your scalp from burning. The added plus is that a great pair of sunglasses and hat can make you look like a star!

4. Drink plenty of liquids such as water, clear juices and herbal teas in order to keep your skin toned and purified. Dehydration happens quickly in hot weather as your body sweats out liquid that needs to be rapidly replaced. Plenty of water filled fresh fruits such as melons, grapes, and pears are also a fantastic and delicious way to stay hydrated.

5. Be careful regarding medications you may be taking. Many prescriptions can cause your skin to be extra sensitive to the sun. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if any medications you may be on will affect your sun sensitivity and if they do, consider wearing a higher SPF and look for shadier areas to play in outdoors rather than be in direct sunlight for too long.

6. If you want to have that healthy, summery glow, you don't have to sacrifice your skin. On the market you can find a veritable cornucopia of self tanners that range from single application towelettes, to sprays and the traditional creams. Make sure to exfoliate before using a self tanner in order to ensure that you have removed dead skin cell build-up for a more natural, even tan. If self tanners aren't your thing, consider using a powder or mineral bronzer that you can use to highlight your face, neck and shoulders with and that will wash off when you are done with your day.

7. Consider using a conditioning spray with sun protectant in it for your hair. Just spritz some on before you leave home to ensure healthier hair that won't become dry and brittle from too much exposure to the elements.

8. If you currently use beauty aides that contain vitamin A, consider switching to a product that uses vitamin C instead. Vitamin A increases sun sensitivity while C will actually help protect your skin from UVA rays while smoothing out wrinkles and uneven skin tone.

9. Try to avoid the sun during high intensity hours. This is typically from 11am to 4pm during which time the sun's most damaging rays are at work. Try spending the bulk of your outdoor time during morning hours and in the early evening. You can fill those high intensity hours with naps, movies, errands, and shopping!

10. Once again, never leave home without wearing sunscreen, even if it is overcast! You can still get a sunburn on a cloudy day and a sunburn means you have done your skin some irreparable damage.

By following these tips you can ensure yourself and your skin a safe and comfortable summer. Taking in the sunshine can be done safely and enjoyably without having to pay the high price of early aging or, worse yet, skin cancer. So, go out, have fun and remember to take care of your skin!