Summer is here, but are you ready for sunny days? We’ve got your back! Do you wonder how you can protect your skin from the blazing sun? What’s the secret to that summer glow? Let’s tell you about some easy tips and tricks that are surely going to help you keep your skin healthy. Get ready to rock that sunscreen and flaunt your radiant skin!
Understand UV Rays and Their Impact
UV rays come from the Sun. They’re invisible light waves that reach our skin. There are three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. We only need to worry about UVA and UVB.
UVA rays penetrate deep into your skin. They trigger chemical reactions that damage your DNA over time. Tanning beds use UVA, and they’re not your skin’s BFF—they increase cancer risk.
UVB rays cause sunburn and most skin cancers. Imagine a UVB photon hitting your skin—it can transform skin healthy cells into cancerous ones.
UV rays are fierce between 10 AM and 4 PM. Even on cloudy days, they sneak through. You need to protect yourself between 10 am to 4 pm, especially when outdoors.
Apply Sunscreen Daily
You must apply sunscreen for each arm, leg, front, back, and your face (including neck and ears), use about one teaspoon (that’s around 5 mL) of sunblock spray.
If you’re covering your whole body, aim for at least seven teaspoons (about 35 mL) in total. Before you step out into the sunshine, give your skin a head start. Apply your sunblock spray about twenty minutes before sun exposure.
Hold that sunblock spray and spray evenly on clean, dry skin.
Stay Hydrated
Our bodies need water to survive. It’s like fuel for our engines. Blood, cells, and organs—they all need water to work smoothly.
Water helps carry energy, nutrients, and oxygen to the right places. There is no fixed rule, but here’s a tip: aim for 8 cups (or 2 liters) a day. Adjust the quantity of water based on your age, size, and how much you move around.
Wear Protective Clothing and Accessories
Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts. Also pop on a wide-brimmed hat. It’s like carrying your own portable shade. Your face, neck, and ears will thank you. You must wear UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing when you go swimming.
It blocks both UVA and UVB rays and you can get UPF clothing for both casual wear and swimwear.
Sunglasses aren’t just for style. They block UV rays like a boss. UV rays can sneak into your eyes and cause issues like cataracts. But with UV-blocking shades, you’re all set! Trees, umbrellas, or a beach tent—find your shady spot.
Eat Healthy
Eating healthy is very important for having healthy skin. Incorporate broccoli as it’s packed with vitamins and minerals that repair skin damage caused by environmental pollutants. It also has sulforaphane—a powerful defense against sun damage.
You can also have walnuts as they’re rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation. Walnuts also have selenium—a skin protector.
You must also have plenty of fruit diets like oranges & mandarins. These citrus fruits are bursting with Vitamin C. Vitamin C boosts collagen production, keeping your skin plump and youthful.
Cooked pumpkin is a beta-carotene powerhouse. It’s an antioxidant that fights skin damage from pollutants and chemical products. And always use natural, organic skincare products.
Post-Sun Skincare Routine
Use a mild cleanser to remove sunscreen and sweat. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or calendula—they soothe redness and help your skin recover. Reach for products that calm and hydrate. Aloe vera gel is like a cool breeze for sun-kissed skin.
Perform Regular Skin Checks
Grab a mirror and check for any new spots, bumps, or changes. Imagine your skin as an alphabet. Look for:
- A: Asymmetry (one half different from the other).
- B: Irregular Borders (not smooth edges).
- C: Color changes (like a chameleon).
- D: Diameter (bigger than a pencil eraser).
- E: Evolving (changing over time).
Sun loves leaving souvenirs on your skin. Check for brown spots or freckles. If they’re new or changing, contact a dermatologist.
Be Sun-Smart
Avoid being in the sun between 10 am and 4pm. It’s when UV rays are at their strongest. So, during these hours, be sun-smart: seek shade, wear a hat, and slather on sunscreen.
Bottom Line
Keeping your skin healthy this summer is super easy with a few simple tricks. Always use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and wear protective clothing. Remember to eat healthy and follow a good post-sun skincare routine. Enjoy the sun safely and keep your skin glowing!
