As the sun’s warmth embraces us during the summer days, it’s the perfect time to go outdoors for adventure, beach trips, and picnics in the park. However, we must not forget that the sun’s rays can be both our friend and foe. While it provides us with essential vitamin D and boosts our spirits, prolonged exposure to the sun can take a toll on our skin, leading to a host of issues such as sunburns, premature ageing, and an increased risk of skin cancer. In this post, I am going to give you 10 tips to protect your skin in summer.
Use a sunscreen indicated for your skin type and re-apply it every two hours
It is very important to use sunscreen daily. During summer you should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50+ which also has protection against IR radiation. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB.
Don’t forget to re-apply every two hours, if you are sweating or after swimming. If you are wearing makeup you can use a sunscreen mist or roll-on for reapplication. I recommend you the Isntree Airy Stick SFP 50.
Avoid sun exposure, especially between 11 am and 4 pm
Avoid sun exposure as much as you can. Try to stay in the shade most of the time. That is especially important between 11 am and 4 pm, as the UV index is higher.
Use the right clothing and complements, like hats or sunglasses
The clothes you are wearing should cover your skin and allow air circulation. Sunglasses are a MUST to protect your eyes against sun radiation. A hat will be an extra protection layer for your face. If you can’t wear a hat you can carry an umbrella.
Avoid applying perfume over the skin
Most perfumes contain alcohol as the main ingredient. It is very harmful to expose your skin to the sun with alcohol applied. The action of the sun radiation over the alcohol may produce burns and skin dryness. It is better to avoid using perfumes during summer or, at least, apply them over the clothes.
Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated
The human body composition is mainly water. Our body needs water for its basic functions. During summer we lose a lot of water through sweat. It is important to replace the water lost by drinking plenty of water. As a rule of thumb, aim for about 2 litres.
Take a shower after coming from the beach or swimming pool
Sodium hypochlorite is the chemical used to keep swimming pools clean. This chemical and sea salt produce skin irritation, and skin dryness and make our skin feel tight. After swimming in the sea or a swimming pool you should take a shower to remove the sea salt and nasty chemicals used in swimming pools. Don’t forget to apply a good moisturiser.
Keep a healthy diet, including seasonal fruits and veggies
Season fruits and veggies are a good source of vitamins, energy and hydration. They are natural, without added sugars which are not beneficial for our health. They also produce a refreshing feeling while eating them.
Keep an appropriate skincare routine
You should change your skincare routine during the year. Your routine should be different for each season. The necessities your skin has in each season are not the same and depend on the weather and environmental conditions.
During summer, it is very important to keep the skin clean and moisturised. I recommend the use of light moisturisers which get absorbed quickly.
Avoid the use of hydroxy acids and retinoids.
Independent of your skincare routine, never skip the sunscreen. If you can apply only one single product, go for the sunscreen.
I already published a post about a summer skincare routine, which you can use as a guide.
Check your skin regularly
Especially during summer, your skin is exposed to harmful UV radiation. The damage of UVA and UVB rays is different (I explained that deeply in the post I published about Sun Protection). They damage the skin at different levels, from burns to acne and dark spots and even skin cancer in the worst scenario.
Keep alert about any changes in your skin. Check your skin regularly looking for anything different. That can be a new dark spot, acne breakout or a change in the shape or intensity of an existing dark spot.
If you observe any change on your skin, go immediately to your dermatologist or GP. It may be nothing, but it is always better to check it soon and get specialised advice.
Keep a healthy sleep routine
During summer we are more active and as a consequence of the longer days, we go to bed later. In some places, it is so hot that it is difficult to get good sleep (the sleep will be disrupted if the temperature climbs above 25 Celsius).
Skin in summer
A night of good sleep is very important. Our body recovers energy used during daily activity and our skin regenerates during sleep. Try to get at least 6 hours of quality sleep.
To increase the quality of your sleep, avoid heavy meals before going to bed, do not use electronic devices for two hours before sleeping and try to keep your bedroom fresh.
These are the tips I consider more important to protect your skin during summer. An extra tip which works well for me is carrying a body or face mist in my bag. I apply it every time I feel my skin is dry or if I feel too hot. This type of mist not only hydrates your skin but produces amazing refreshing feelings.
FAQ About How to Protect Your Skin In Summer
Q1: How can I protect my skin from harmful UV rays?
A1: Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, use protective clothing, and seek shade during peak hours.
Q2: Are certain fabrics better for sun protection?
A2: Yes, choose tightly woven clothes in dark colours for better coverage.
Q3: How often should I reapply sunscreen during the day?
A3: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Q4: Can I use makeup with SPF for sun protection?
A4: Yes, but it’s not enough. Apply dedicated sunscreen underneath.
Q5: What other skin care tips can I follow in summer?
A5: Stay hydrated, exfoliate gently, and moisturize regularly to maintain healthy
In conclusion, safeguarding your skin during the warm summer days is essential to enjoy the sun’s warmth without compromising your skin’s health. The ten tips provided in this post are invaluable in helping you strike the perfect balance between embracing the outdoors and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
Always remember to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 50+, and reapply it every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming. Seek shade during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun’s intense rays.
Stay mindful of the harmful effects of alcohol-based perfumes on sun-exposed skin and prioritize hydration by drinking plenty of water and enjoying seasonal fruits and vegetables. Follow a suitable skincare routine with lightweight moisturizers during summer and be cautious with the use of hydroxy acids and retinoids.
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Regularly inspect your skin for any changes, as timely detection can make a significant difference in maintaining skin health. And don’t underestimate the importance of a good night’s sleep, as it aids your body’s recovery and skin regeneration.
By incorporating these practices into your lifestyle, you’re investing in the long-term health and radiance of your skin. Remember, sunscreen should be your constant companion, protecting your skin throughout the year. With a few simple adjustments to your summer routine, you can revel in the joys of the season while maintaining healthy, beautiful skin.
Thank you for joining this journey to learn about the importance of protecting your skin in summer. I hope you found these tips helpful and encourage you to share them with friends and loved ones. Let’s embrace the sun safely and cherish every moment of this summer with confidence and well-being. Stay protected, and stay beautiful!
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