Being prepared for both expected and unexpected sun exposure should be one of your top priorities this summer. The best way to avoid sun-damaged skin this season is to prepare for where and when the sun’s harmful UV rays will be present in your daily activities. Taking the time to be proactive and prepare for the months of sun exposure ahead will allow you to have everything you need to keep your skin protected while feeling radiant and refreshed all summer long.
How Sunlight Leads to Skin Damage
The skin aging process is a result of both internal and environmental factors. UV radiation plays a significant role in the type of environmental factors that can lead to skin damage, and damage caused by sunlight is known as photo-aging. Repetitive sun exposure breaks down internal structures in the skin, resulting in age spots, wrinkles, and sagging.
Over time, repetitive sun exposure intensifies the natural aging process. The skin loses volume and hydrating substances as the body ages, and intrinsic aging will determine how quickly and when this happens. Keeping sun exposure to a minimum will help hold off intrinsic aging as long as possible.
Avoid Sun Damage Whenever Possible
In addition to avoiding excessive sun exposure when you can, there are other skincare methods you can employ to help keep your skin looking its best.
Exfoliating
Exfoliation removes dead, dulling skin debris that causes your skin to be congested. By gently exfoliating, you will be improving the skin’s hydration and one step closer to clearer, smoother skin. Always exfoliate before applying any toner, moisturizer, and SPF.
Pro Tip: Your face isn’t the only thing to exfoliate – don’t forget the rest of your body, followed by a hydrating body cream to help seal in moisture.
Moisturizing
The sun can take a lot out of your skin, so stepping up your hydration game will help to boost the layers of skin underneath a moisturizer. Take your skin’s hydration a step further with intensive masques a couple of times a week to refresh and revitalize your skin.
Staying Hydrated
Simply drinking water is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your skin (and entire body!) hydrated. Drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day will help your skin maintain the critical moisture balance of the body and skin. Always remember to bring plenty of H2O wherever you go, especially when you’re out in the sun, because dehydration can lead to headaches and dizzy spells too.
Applying Sunscreen Often
Make applying sunscreen in the morning part of your daily routine, and don’t forget to re-apply every two hours to keep your skin completely protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. A tan summer glow is attractive, but wrinkles are forever, and the best way to protect your skin from sun damage is to keep it protected and out of the sun.
Preventing Potential Breakouts
Prevent Breakouts by switching to an oil-free sunscreen that still contains a high SPF for your entire body. Many people who struggle with acne find mineral sunscreens to be an exceptional option for keeping unnecessary oils off your skin.
Simplifying Your Beauty Routine
Simplify your summer beauty routine by using a fast-absorbing body moisturizer with a built-in SPF. And as we previously mentioned, avoid heavy foundations and extensive makeup routines to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
If your skin is excessively oily, acne-prone, or extra sun-sensitive, making a few changes to your skincare regimen can help you maintain a great complexion all year round, but especially in the summer as the temperatures heat up.
- Use a toner to hydrate and soothe trouble spots like your t-zone
- Look for a daily moisturizer that contains an SPF
- Trade out your heavy night cream for a lightweight serum
- Use a CC cream instead of a heavy foundation
- If you’re experiencing sun-sensitivity, skip the exfoliating
Repairing Sun Damage and Overall Skin Tone
If you find yourself looking in the mirror wishing to see a radiant summer glow, but you’re faced with dull, dead skin, in-office treatments can be the perfect way to help restore a summer glow. Professional treatments can help to even out any discoloration, draw out excess oils and give you the confidence to spend your summer foundation free with smaller pores.
To learn more about achieving the perfect summertime skin, schedule a consultation with Hinsdale Vein & Laser today.