Tips to Protect Your Skin This Summer

With summer on the way, it’s time to start getting your skin ready to take on the sun – from the inside and out. Brief exposure to the sun is beneficial to the skin and essential for production of Vitamin D. However, prolonged exposure may lead to harmful consequences like melanoma – the deadliest type of skin cancer.

It is important to not only take care of the skin that is exposed to sun, but also the skin that stays covered. Below are a few tips to keep in mind before you step outside this summer.

Apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before stepping outside. Most sunscreen takes a while to soak into your skin and truly be effective. It is important to reapply your sunscreen every two to three hours; and even more often if you are sweating or exposing your skin to water.

Exfoliate your skin daily for a healthy glow. By incorporating exfoliation into your skin care regime, you’ll be able to avoid dull, dry skin. Exfoliants help to remove old, dead skin cells, toxins and other deposits, allowing new skin cells to surface.

Care for your hair and scalp. It is also important during the summer months to take good care of your hair and scalp. Wear hats as often as possible to keep your scalp from getting sunburn. Apply sunscreen to the parts of your hair that are exposed to the sun. Because hair also tends to be moisture-deprived during the summer, avoid overuse of any kind of chemical or hair styling tool. Use gentle shampoo and a deep conditioner to replenish moisture.

Maintain a healthy diet. When summer is in full swing, it is beneficial to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet and to drink plenty of water. This will help keep your skin hydrated and your body feeling refreshed. Some of the best foods for your skin are cucumbers, cherries, oranges, plums, spinach, and watermelon. These foods are highly nutritious and filled with fiber, vitamins, anti-oxidants, and minerals.

Treat sunburn fast. The sooner you are able to treat sunburn, the better. By getting the inflammation to subside, you will be able to curb the overall damage to your skin. A simple way to do this is to soak a washcloth in a bowl of skim milk and ice, and apply it to the area for five to ten minutes. Also, applying hydrocortisone cream to the skin will help decrease the inflammation.

When you step outside to enjoy the sun this summer, make sure your skin is protected. Stop by Greenville Dermatology’s retail store today to stock up on sunscreens, fun accessories and other skincare products. To schedule an appointment with one of our skincare experts, call (864) 242-5872.