GETTING READY FOR SUNNY DAYS: PREPARE & PROTECT YOUR SKIN
Published April 5, 2023
HOW TO PREPARE AND PROTECT YOUR SKIN IN THE SUN
As the days get longer and the sun starts to shine brighter, it’s time to start thinking about how you can prepare your skin for that much-awaited sunshine.
PREPARING YOUR SKIN FOR SUN EXPOSURE
While the sun can be a great source of Vitamin D, too much of it can quickly become damaging to your skin. Before you jump into outdoor activities this season, here is a reminder on the right things to do to prepare your skin for sun exposure.
1. EXFOLIATE
The first step in prepping your skin for sun exposure is exfoliation. This helps remove any dead skin cells and impurities from the surface of your skin, giving it a smoother texture. You can either use an exfoliating scrub or an at-home chemical exfoliant. Just make sure not to over-exfoliate as this can lead to irritation and dryness.
2. NOURISH
Weakened by sun exposures, the skin needs to be nourished with a moisturizer. A good moisturizer should contain antioxidants and other beneficial ingredients that protect and replenish your skin’s natural barrier. If you have oily or combination skin, look for a lightweight moisturizer that won’t leave your face feeling greasy or weighed down. For dry skin types though, opt for a thicker cream-based moisturizer that helps lock in moisture without clogging pores.
3. PROTECT
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen! Make sure you choose one with broad spectrum SPF protection—that means it guards against both UVB (burning) rays and UVA (aging) rays. If you don’t like how traditional sunscreen feels on your face, there are now many tinted mineral sunscreen options available on the market which provide great coverage without leaving behind a white cast or making your face feel greasy.
DURING SUN EXPOSURE
Once you’re out in the sun, there are certain things you should do in order to keep your skin safe and healthy while still enjoying some fun in the sun!
1. REAPPLY FREQUENTLY
Reapply sunscreen every two hours (or more often if swimming or sweating).
2. DRESS FOR THE SUN
Start by wearing protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses, light long sleeve shirts etc.—this will help shield your skin from the harsh UV rays of the sun.
3. STAY HYDRATED
Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day; this helps keep your body temperature regulated so you don't burn or suffer from heat stroke too quickly.
4. AVOID PEAK SUNLIGHT HOURS
Even when well protected, avoid exposure during peak sunlight hours between 10am and 2pm as much as possible; these are usually when the UV rays are strongest.
5. TAKE BREAKS
Try not to stay out in direct sunlight for too long; take breaks inside air conditioned spaces whenever possible so as not to overexpose yourself, which is dangerous to your health!
AFTER SUN EXPOSURE
After returning home from periods of extended outdoor time, follow these three skincare steps.
1. GENTLE CLEANSER
Use a gentle cleanser to remove any excess dirt and sweat that may have accumulated on your skin during that time.
2. ANTIOXIDANT-RICH SERUM & MOISTURIZER
Follow up with an antioxidant serum followed by a moisturizer to help build collagen production after a day in the sun.
3. EYE CREAM
Apply an eye cream around the eyes as they are particularly sensitive to UV radiation - this will help reduce puffiness and dark circles caused by dehydration due to long hours in sunlight.
IN SUMMARY
With summer just around the corner, we all want our skin looking its best when soaking up some much needed Vitamin D! Following these simple steps will ensure that your complexion is well prepared for those sunny days ahead - from exfoliation before hand all the way through to protective clothing during - so you can enjoy summer worry free knowing that you've taken all necessary steps required for optimal skincare!