Summer is here, and although not all of us can make it to the beach, that doesn’t exempt our skin from sun damage. Even when indoors, harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can harm your skin through the sunshine coming from windows. Want to be sun-savvy? Here are ways you can protect your skin in the summer.
Wear Sunscreen
The most important protection you can have for your skin this summer is wearing sunscreen. It’s essential to apply sunscreen even when it’s cloudy outside or when you stay indoors but have access to large windows.
Make sure to look for a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher. Check the label to see if it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. The difference between the two is that the former causes premature aging of the skin. Meanwhile, the latter is responsible for skin burning. A broad-spectrum sunscreen can protect against both skin aging and sunburn.
When going out, be sure to put on your sunscreen at least 15 minutes before exposure to the sun. This gives your skin time to absorb the product. Some brands may take longer to sink into your skin’s surface, so remember to check the bottle for instructions.
Be sure to reapply sunscreen every two to three hours, especially when you’re outdoors. You will have to do this more often if you go swimming or sweat. Also, remember to cover areas that people typically miss. These parts include the eyelids, neck, ears, feet, and hands. You should also have a lip balm that contains SPF, as your lips can also get sun damage. If you’re worried about sunscreen clogging your pores, there are products that are formulated specifically for the face. Finally, always be mindful of the expiration date on sunscreen. An expired sunscreen will not give you ample protection.
Avoid the Sun at Its Peak
Getting some sunshine is healthy for all of us. It synthesizes vitamin D in the body, which keeps you from feeling fatigued. If you want to have fun in the sun, avoid peak hours. From 10 am to 4 pm, the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Sunlight during the morning and late afternoon are gentler and less damaging to the skin.
Wear the Right Gear
When you’re going outdoors, wear the appropriate gear to protect your skin from the summer sun. Grab yourself a wide-brimmed hat that can shade your face from the harsh rays of the sun. You can also use a baseball cap, but remember to wear sunscreen on your neck and ears. A cap may not cover these areas.
Likewise, wear long-sleeved shirts if you can handle the warmth. This type of clothing will give you added protection against the sun. You can look for clothes that have sun-protective materials – this information is usually indicated in their tags or labels. The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) indicates the amount of radiation the fabric allows to reach the skin. A UPF of 30 and above offers good skin protection.
Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Although not directly related to the skin, your lifestyle choices can help protect your skin in the summer. Staying out under the sun can fry and dry out your skin. Be sure to drink water to avoid dehydration and heatstroke, and to keep your skin healthy. Eat healthy foods that have vitamins to help your skin glow. Avoid harsh soaps, and remember to use moisturizer or lotion to maintain hydration in your skin.
Wellness Services in Denton and Frisco, Texas
At DFW Anti-Aging and Wellness Centers, we can provide you with expert medical advice on how to protect your skin in the summer. We also offer minor dermatological procedures to cater to the needs of your complexion. We have two clinics in Denton and Frisco to serve you. Give us a call at (469) 389-5251 or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to providing you with the best-customized wellness solutions for your personal needs.
