Our winters here in Colorado have been unseasonably warm. Some people think this might be an indication that there will be a harsh summer. With the intense sun and high temperatures, your skin takes the brunt of the elements and needs extra love and care. It is so incredibly important to protect and nourish your skin year round, but especially during the summer to combat sun damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen comes in a variety of forms these days. From lotions and sprays to gels and ointments, there is no shortage of options, which might make choosing the right product difficult. It is important to use a skin protectant with a high SPF rating, but also one that works for you. The more you enjoy a product, the more often you will actually apply it, increasing your amount of continual protection.
Other qualities that your sunscreen should have are water resistance and broad spectrum. Water resistance helps prevent the sunscreen from being washed off by water or sweat. Broad spectrum protects against UVB and UVA light. If this is not listed on the product container, that particular protection may only protect against UVB light. Be sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours or sooner if needed. It is also important to note that just because you are not in direct sunlight that does not mean that you will not obtain sun damage. UV rays still penetrate through clouds, fog, and mist, so be sure apply sunscreen anytime you know you will be outside for a period of time.
Sunglasses and Lip Balm
Your eyes and lips are particularly sensitive to sunlight exposure. Just like the rest of your skin, these areas can also burn. You may not be a big fan of the large sunglasses trend, however this style choice has its benefits. According to Neil Hodur, OD, and professor of optometry at the Illinois College of Optometry “The more of the eye you can cover, the less the intensity of light to reach the back part of the eye.” Prolonged exposure to sunlight has been linked to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems. When looking for your next pair of sunglasses, look for ones with UV 400 protection and with either a brown or gray tint for optimal eye protection.
Your lips are also easily damaged by sunlight. Your lips and ears are particularly prone to skin cancer due to their sensitive skin and common exposure. When choosing a lip balm, look for one with at least a 15 SPF rating (30 SPF if you are prone to skin cancer) and apply every two hours while outside. If you wear lipstick, try darker shades since these darker colors help absorb UV rays.
Moisturizers
Moisturizing your skin is important year round. It prevents premature aging and keeps your skin healthy and intact. Dry and cracked skin can cause sores and cuts that allow bacteria into your body and increases your risk for infection. However, the same lotion that you use in the winter may not be the same you use in summertime. The thick, greasy lotions you may use during the winter months will not be comfortable in the heat of summer. Opt instead for a lighter lotion with its main ingredients being lactic or glycolic acid. If the first few ingredients on the label contain lanolin, glycerin, or petrolatum they will be on the greasier side. Also, since during the summer you sweat more than any other time of the year, more oil is secreted from your pores. This increased oil production and a greasy lotion can cause your skin to become more prone to acne.
You deserve to enjoy the skin you are in. Care and protect it from the harsh heat of summer and you will have healthy radiant skin for decades to come!