[Beauty] Summer Skin Care

The summer sun is beloved because it allows us to spend more time outdoors doing the things we love. However, it is also the worst time for our skin because it brings along a number of problems like acne, rashes, prickly heat and sunburns.

Prolonged exposure to the sun results in sun damage which can lead to premature skin aging such as wrinkles, dark spots, dry skin and even skin cancer over time. But don't worry, here's a list of things you can do to make sure you have healthy and glowing skin throughout this season.

Image Source: fiftyshadesofbeauty.wordpress.com

1. Wear sunscreen

Opt for water-based sunscreens for a non-sticky feel while preserving the health and look of your skin. But don't rely on body lotions and moisturizers alone, one should also slather on a lip balm with SPF to protect and heal your lips from the sun.

2. Stay out of the sun between 10am and 3pm

The hottest part of the day during the summer is the most damaging time. Get your exercise and activities done in the earlier or in the later, cooler hours of the day.

3. Wear protective clothing

Use lightweight fabrics and ones that won't itch, scratch or overheat the body. Prefer light colors over dark ones to keep the body heat level down. Be sure to pop on a hat too and use sunglasses as extended exposure to the sun's UV rays has been linked to eye damage.

Image Source: sheknows.ca

4. Ditch the tan obsession

Sunbathing or lounging in a sunroom increases your chances of damaging your skin and getting skin cancer. Moreover, fake tans contain a lot of chemicals that aren't good for your skin and overall health.

5. Rinse skin after swimming

This is especially important when you've been swimming in the pool as the chlorine can dry out your skin and for some people it can even result in an allergic reaction. Same goes for sea water as this can also damage not only your skin, but your hair as well.

Image Source: mintgadgets.com

6. Avoid spraying perfume

The psoralens in perfume (especially in citrus ones) can permanently stain your skin when they react with the sun. So during the summertime, spritz your clothes with your fragrance rather than your skin.

7. Drink plenty of water

Hydrated skin is better skin. Dehydration results in dry skin, frown-lines, spots, a sluggish complexion and a lack of glow. Drink water regularly because it will both hydrate your skin and flush out toxins that can harm your complexion.

Image Source: onearabvegan.com

8. Eat healthy foods

A healthy skin comes from eating well. Cut down on sugar and processed foods which result in unbalanced blood sugar levels and therefore contribute to premature aging. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables especially the ones with high water content.

Image Source: talkclimatechange.com

9. Examine your skin regularly

At least one a month, check for signs of sun damage on your skin. Be especially alert to moles that have changed its shape or size or that hurt, itch or bleed.

Kstylick Editor: Paige