Protect Your Skin from the Summer Sun

Summer is the time of year when we like to show a little more skin, but it is also the time of year we have to take special care of it. The sun and heat can take a toll on your skin.  Dermatologists have long believed sunscreen fights wrinkling, and a recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine followed more than 900 adults under age 55 for 4.5 years.  Those assigned to slather on sunscreen at least once a day saw 24 percent less skin aging — at least on the back of their hands — than those who did not have to follow the daily regimen.  And while sunscreen is an important step to skin protection and defying age, there are more steps you can take to protect your delicate outer layer.  That’s why Cotton Candy beauty contributor Claudia Mejerle reveals several effective ways, including applying sunscreen, to keep your skin safe and beautiful.

Exfoliate
Exfoliation is an important part of skincare, especially in the summer.   In order for your skin to glow and also cooperate with sunless tanner, (since Cotton Candy does not suggest baking yourself in the sun), a gentle, daily scrub is great to slough off dull skin. Mix equal parts sugar with your body wash to create a safe scrub so you won’t risk irritating your skin with harsher exfoliates.

Hydrate
The sun and heat sucks moisture right out of your skin, and it is important to replenish the moisture both topically and orally.  Increased perspiration in the summer calls for increased water intake, so aim for drinking 2-3 liters, depending on your weight and activity level. And instead of snacking on salty chips while you’re at the pool, go for fruit that’s high in water content, such as melon, which is also rich in antioxidants that aid in hydration.

Protect
Whether you’re at the beach or in the midst of your daily routine, the sun will always find you.  Daily sun exposure over time leads to dreaded wrinkles and spots, and that is why it is so important to make sun protection an everyday habit.  Pay special attention to your face, neck, décolleté and hands daily.  And when you’re spending and extended amount of time in the sun, make sure to use a sunscreen that says “Broad Spectrum Protection” on the label.  This will protect you better from UVA and UVB rays.  Don’t forget to let sunscreen soak in for at least 20 minutes before going outside, and be sure to reapply after swimming, sweating and toweling off.

Accessorize
Stay cool, protected and stylish while you’re in the sun by incorporating different pieces into your wardrobe. More women are reaching for hats, particularly wide-brimmed, while lounging around the pool, to keep sun off their face and chest.  Airy tunics are also great for blocking out summer sun. And of course, don’t forget your sunglasses so your eyes are protected and you refrain from the wrinkle-inducing squint.

Makeup
Keep your makeup light and fresh in the summer so your skin can breathe. So many cosmetics contain SPF these days, so kill two birds with one stone and use a tinted moisturizer with sun protection.