By Tia Cristy
As summer approaches the northern hemisphere, it’s crucial to prioritize sun care to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Too much sun can be damaging immediately, but most of us only see the hazards of it down the road when we realize the UV damaged our skin stem cells and we end up with unwanted wrinkles and dark spots. Now, it’s true that we all need vitamin D for optimal health all year round, and the sun provides a great natural dose of it. But only 10 minutes of sun can give you your daily requirement.
Anything over, can begin to damage cells. So, sun protection is a must all year long, but more so as we move into warmer months.
From selecting the right SPF to soothing sunburns, here are some essential tips to keep your skin healthy and glowing all season long.
Choose the Right SPF:
Selecting the appropriate Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is paramount for effective sun protection. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. For small kids, using a higher SPF is a must since their skin is much more delicate. I, myself, still reach for the 90 SPF when available.
Apply sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Seek Shade:
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade under umbrellas, trees, or awnings to minimize your skin’s exposure to harmful UV radiation.
Wear Protective Clothing:
In addition to sunscreen, wearing protective clothing can offer extra defense against the sun’s rays. Certain colors and fabrics can provide better UV protection than others. Darker and more intense colors tend to absorb more UV radiation than lighter colors, offering better protection for your skin.
- Dark Colors: Black, navy blue, and deep red are examples of colors that absorb more UV radiation, providing better protection for your skin.
After a day in the sun, treat your skin to some extra TLC with after-sun products. Look for soothing lotions or gels containing ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber extract, or vitamin E to hydrate and calm sun-exposed skin.
Once you have recovered from the sun exposure from the day before, it’s important to moisturize your skin to lock in moisture. Dry skin will flake, itch, peel, and burn. Apply a nourishing lotion twice a day to keep skin looking radiant. Please note: If the lotion burns, rinse off and use an aloe based after sun care product to soothe the tiny abrasions on your body.
Check Your Medications:
Some medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, making you more susceptible to sunburn. Consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to determine if any medications you’re taking could heighten sun sensitivity and take extra precautions accordingly.
Get Your Vitamins
Some vitamins can help reduce the risks of UV damage. They might not prevent sunburn, but they can help reduce the chances of sun damage.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage caused by UV radiation. It also supports collagen production, which can help maintain skin elasticity and resilience. Consuming foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, may help support skin health and provide some protection against sunburn.
- Vitamin E: Like vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. It may also help reduce inflammation and support skin repair. Foods high in vitamin E include nuts, seeds, avocado, and spinach.
- Beta-Carotene (Vitamin A precursor): Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy skin and vision. It functions as an antioxidant and may help protect the skin from UV damage. Foods rich in beta-carotene include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale.
- Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide): Vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide, has been shown to have protective effects against UV-induced skin damage. It can help improve skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, and decrease the risk of sunburn. Niacinamide is often found in topical skincare products, but consuming foods rich in vitamin B3, such as meat, fish, nuts, and legumes, can also support skin health.
Perform Regular Skin Checks:
Regularly examine your skin for any changes or abnormalities, including new moles, freckles, or spots. Early detection of skin cancer is key to successful treatment, so be vigilant and schedule annual skin exams with a dermatologist.
Remember, taking care of your skin during the summer months is essential for maintaining its health and vitality. By following these sun care tips, you can enjoy outdoor activities safely while keeping your skin protected from the sun’s harmful effects. Remember, sun care is not just a seasonal routine but a year-round commitment to maintaining healthy skin.
