Summer Skincare
The summertime sun creates outdoor fun, but the harsher rays can do a number on your skin. Proper skin care is important to protect yourself from both long and short-term damage, such as breakouts, burns, blisters, sun spots, wrinkles, and even cancer. Thankfully, there are many great ways to keep you and your family protected from damaging UVA and UVB rays so you can enjoy the outdoors all summer long.
Use the Right Sunscreen
There is a plethora of options available when it comes to sunscreen, so how do you determine which one is right for you? Choosing one that is at least SPF 15 or higher is important as it provides the best protection, but you also need to find one you enjoy wearing. Find one that is water resistant to ensure it will last longer while swimming or sweating. Check to make sure the one you choose offers broad-spectrum protection as it shields your skin from both UVB light – which can cause sunburns and skin cancer – and UVA light – which leads to premature aging as well as skin cancer.
Clothing Provides Great Sun Protection
For those times you don’t want to constantly reapply sunscreen but still want protection, reach for the right articles of clothing. Hats with wide brims guard your scalp and ears from the sun’s rays. Purchasing clothing that is both lightweight and boasts an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating means the fabric absorbs harmful UV light to protect your skin. Other fabric options that offer protection include unbleached cotton, high-luster polyesters, and thin, satiny silk, as well as tightly-woven or knit fabrics, and darker materials.
Continue or Improve Your Skincare Routine
If you have a regular skincare routine, it’s important to continue through the summer, but you may need to make some adjustments. Knowing your skin type is the first step in finding the right care that will keep your skin healthy and glowing. When purchasing products for summertime skincare, choose ones that are more lightweight and easier on your skin with the extra heat and humidity, such as a foaming cleanser instead of cream or oil cleanser. Use a daily moisturizer that is also lightweight, but is also SPF 30 or higher to ensure your face is always protected. Try exfoliating your skin to help open up blocked pores and remove excess oils. Finally, one of the most important pieces to any skincare routine is proper hydration. Drinking plenty of water every day keeps your skin healthy and can even help you recover quicker from a sunburn.
Caring for your skin is always important, but the harsh summer sun makes it even more essential. If you have questions about your summer skincare routine, or how to help protect your family from harmful UVA and UVB rays, contact or visit one of our convenient Midwest Express Clinic locations today.
