4 Summer Skin Care Tips to Get the Most out of Your Fun in the Sun
Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family beach vacation or you’ve got a poolside spot with your name on it, the last thing you probably want to be doing this summer is worrying about skin cancer and other damaging skin concerns. But as you most likely already know, too much time in the sun can lead to these skin care problems. So, is the only way to protect your skin this summer to simply stay indoors? Absolutely not!
While you do want to pay attention to how much time you’re spending out in the sun, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing melanoma and other skin problems by sticking to these four handy summer skin care tips.
1. Slather on the Sunscreen
We couldn’t mention summer skin care without addressing sunscreen, right? But as it turns out, there are actually quite a few factors that can go into choosing the perfect sunscreen to offer the best UV protection while also not cramping your style. First, you want to make sure that your sunscreen doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that can actually lead to skin irritation. When possible, look for products that contain zinc and/or titanium dioxide rather than chemicals like oxybenzone or avobenzone. Secondly, take a look at the SPF protection offered in your sunscreen. Typically, our Pittsburgh dermatologist recommends using SPF 30 or higher for the best UV protection. (Environmental Working Group)
We love Skinceuticals’ Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 because not only does it contain natural zinc oxide and offer great UV protection, but it’s also formulated to go on clear and effortlessly. So don’t let myths about natural sunscreens leaving white streaks stop you from getting the best sun protection out there.
2. Don’t Forget to Exfoliate
Exfoliating can help you achieve that smooth, glowing summer skin that you’re craving, and the best part is that it takes very little time and effort. Simply choose a gentle exfoliating buff and apply your favorite face cleanser to it to sweep away any dead skin cells, dirt, and oil that have built up on the surface of your face. In doing this, you can reveal the fresh new layer of skin underneath to give you that glowing look. Keep in mind, though, that if you have very sensitive skin, you may want to exfoliate only once or twice a week for best results. (American Academy of Dermatology)
3. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
Another great way to give your skin a break from the sun while still getting to enjoy the beautiful summer weather is to pack a few pieces of sun-protective clothing in your beach bag. Wearing a wide-brimmed sunhat (with few holes so as to limit sun penetration) or a pool coverup over your bathing suit can be easy additions to your summer skin care routine. Not to mention the fact that you get to look stylish while staying protected.
It’s also worth mentioning that this can (and should) also include a great pair of sunglasses that offer either 99% or 100% UVA and UVB protection to make sure your eyes aren’t exposed to the sun’s damaging rays, either.
4. Skip the Tanning Bed
While most people’s ideas of a relaxing summer day might include some good old-fashioned sunbathing, you really do want to limit your exposure to UV light, which also includes indoor tanning beds. It may not be breaking news anymore, but it’s worth stressing that tanning beds can cause a whole host of skin care problems, including severely upping your risk for skin cancer. If you really want to give your skin a subtle boost of that summer glow, choose a gentle sunless tanner instead of heading for the tanning salon. (American Academy of Dermatology)
The Bottom Line
There’s no need to limit your fun this summer in order to keep your skin looking healthy, young, and glowing. By simply paying attention to how much time you’re spending in the sun, as well as following these four useful skin care tips, you can easily enjoy the best of both worlds.
If previous sun damage is a concern, it can be a good idea to consult a board-certified dermatologist for more information about the variety of minimally invasive skin care treatment options now available to restore a more youthful appearance to the skin. Our Board-certified Plastic Surgeon, Board Certified Dermatologist and Aesthetic Physician Assistants can offer professional guidance on the best skin care treatments for each individual.
Whether laser treatments like Laser Genesis to reverse the effects of sun damage on the skin or our inventory of professional Skinceuticals products is what you need, team will be happy to assist you.
