The basics of sun care

Summer is right around the corner and of course we love to be outside! Whether we spend time by the pool, beach, or a stroll in nature, here are a few basic tips on how to maximize our natural glow while being safe from anti-aging issues. While the sun is a great source of Vitamin D, if we over do it, it can cause pigmentation, dehydration and of course sunburn.

Before the sun:

Avoid: Waxing for 48 hours, aromatherapy products (can be highly active and cause irritation), check with your doctor about medications and antibiotics you’re taking are safe to use in the sun. Also avoid acidic peels, we want as much protection in our skin before sun exposure. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. The sun will open our pores and sweat glands with water in our body system we can about dehydration which will help avoid dry/cracked skin. Sunscreen in the summer (and every season) should be your best friend. Stick to SPF 30, a higher SPF can block pores and cause breakouts.

During sun exposure:

Protect your eyes, face and scalp with sunglasses and hats. Keep hydrating! Especially if you are drinking a glass of wine, your favorite martini, or a drink with high levels of sugar. The sugar in these tends to make us more thirsty therefore we tend to drink more. Reapply sunscreen, besides feeling like a babe every time we reapply, we re-create a skin glow. Don’t skip your ears, lips and the most exposed and forgotten area, OUR HANDS. Sunburn can cause irreversible damage for years to come which we won’t notice at first sometimes, please do not overdo it.

After the sun:

During the day, light serums and moisturizers will help lock in moisture and keep that tan glowing Hydrate at night with oils and creams. Feel free to combine a few drops of each to enrich your routine.

In case of sunburn:

Avoid jacuzzis, baths and hot showers. Opt for cool water to soothe the skin.Use soothing, alcohol-free cleansers, serums and use a cooling cream. The ancient remedy of aloe can do the trick too. Keep sunburned areas away from sun to avoid extra irritation and prevent further skin damage. Continue to wear SPF, sunglasses and hat if needed.Now that we have our basics down, get out there and enjoy the start of summer!