Words Dr. Marita Schauch, ND, Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre
Given how grey the winter months are here on Vancouver Island, many of us make it our priority to get out and enjoy the sunshine while it’s here, soaking up that vitamin D and enjoying our beaches, lakes and rivers. But after months of soaking up the sunshine, your skin might be feeling the effects, even with careful SPF use. The combination of UV rays, heat, salt water and chlorine can leave skin dry, dull or uneven. The good news is our skin is remarkably resilient, and with a little extra care, we can help it recover and restore its glow and vitality.
Hydrate!
While I hope you kept this up all summer long, the first step in repairing sun-stressed skin is replenishing moisture. Sun exposure and outdoor elements can dehydrate your skin’s outer layers, making fine lines and rough patches more noticeable.
Drink plenty of water and enjoy hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon and citrus fruits (orange, grapefruit, lime, lemon, pomello) to help restore your body’s water balance.
Try switching to a richer moisturizer or add a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera or glycerin.
Skin Soothing Treatments
If you’re dealing with lingering redness or sensitivity, focus on calming the inflammation. Aloe vera, chamomile or oatmeal can help reduce irritation and support your skin’s barrier. Steer clear of harsh exfoliants until your
skin has settled.
Gentle Exfoliation
Summer often leads to a buildup of dead skin cells, leaving skin looking dull. Once your skin feels comfortable (not sunburned or irritated), introduce gentle exfoliation one to two times a week.
Repair with Antioxidants
Sun exposure increases free radical damage, which accelerates signs of aging. Post-summer is a great time to add antioxidant-rich serums or creams to your routine. Look for ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea extract or resveratrol. These can help counteract oxidative stress, encourage collagen production, and promote firmer, healthier skin.
Keep Using SPF
Just because summer is over, it doesn’t mean you can skip sunscreen. UVA rays, which contribute to aging, are present year-round. Continue to use a sunscreen daily (yes even on cloudy days) to protect your skin.
Skin-Loving Supplements
Support your skin from within with these skin-friendly supplements. Vitamin C boosts collagen production and helps repair tissue. Vitamin E works with vitamin C to protect and soothe skin. Omega-3s (fish or algae oil) reduce inflammation and support the skin’s lipid barrier. Zinc supports the body’s healing process and reduces inflammation. Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant that may help combat sun damage. Collagen Peptides help to restore skin elasticity. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
A little extra TLC goes a long way for our body’s largest organ. Here’s to healthy skin!
