by Shannon Hall, AnamCara Spa + Beauty Bar –
Summer! This is definitely NOT the season to slack off on your skincare routines! The sun’s rays are more harmful during this time and we are at a higher risk of sun damage when we are spending more time outdoors and exposing more skin. Here is the skinny on your best summer skin!
Exfoliate. Exfoliating the face once a week during warmer months will provide clearer, smoother skin! For the body, dry brushing or exfoliating mitts work well to keep skin looking youthful and smooth. If you know you will be in the sun for longer periods that day, hold off on exfoliating. When you’re younger, your skin will naturally renew itself faster but when you reach the age of 30, the process begins to slow down, resulting in more pigmentation and a duller complexion. Glowing skin starts with good exfoliation habits.
Hydrate. Hydration is important to keep our tissues moist. Skin benefits from being moisturized day and night. Day creams with SPF provide protection from free radicals and UVA/UVB damage, while night moisturizers provide repair, nourishment and anti-aging benefits! Everyone has different skin needs, so visit a skincare specialist to get the best cream for your skin type. Oh … and drink more water! Hydrate from the inside out and outside in!
When in doubt, apply (and reapply!) sunscreen! Even if your primary goal is to get a golden tan, you still need sunscreen. Make sure sun protection for your face and body is integrated into your summer skincare routine – it’s one of the most critical summer skin care tips. Unprotected UV exposure may help you achieve a bronze complexion, but it will also permanently damage your skin, leading to premature aging, and put you at risk for cancer later in life. My favorite facial sunscreen is Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 by Dermalogica. Double up on age prevention with this morning moisturizer to safeguard skin against UVB /UVA rays while cranking up collagen production thanks to firming peptides.
Layer your clothing and wear a hat if you know you will be outdoors for longer periods of time, especially during peak sunshine hours.
Repair and treat sun damage with antioxidants. Antioxidants are a sun damage superhero! They go in and help block the effects of free radicals, which are the bad guys that break down collagen and elasticity. Serums that include vitamin C will help rebuild collagen, firm the skin and brighten dark spots from too much sun exposure. Best used during the night while your skin repairs itself!
You can also help repair skin from the inside by eating an antioxidant diet full of delicious, skin-boosting foods. Fruit salad at the beach anyone?
