It’s summer time, which means it’s the season for beach outings, outdoor BBQs, vacations, and other outdoor activities. However, the combination of sun, saltwater, and sand can take a toll on your skin!
Rather than take a step back from the summer fun, here’s my comprehensive guide on how to keep your skin healthy and protected from the elements.
1. Use Protection
Before going outdoors, always make sure to wear sunscreen that’s broad spectrum (protects against UVA/UVB rays) and has a minimum of 30 SPF. Sunscreen should include zinc oxide in the ingredients to effectively protect the skin. Make sure to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours so that you are consistently covered.
Protective clothing such as visors, hats, shawls, and coverup clothing also provide great sun protection. Always wear sunglasses for retina protection for your eyes.
Sun damage is one of the leading causes of skin aging, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, loss of elasticity, sagging skin, and skin cancer so take this protection step seriously!
2. Rinse Off Immediately
After spending time in the ocean or on the beach, it’s crucial to rinse off as soon as possible. Saltwater and sand can dry out your skin, causing irritation and itching.
Take a shower using fresh, cool water and body wash to remove salt, sand, and sunscreen residue. I recommend using a cleansing oil, balm, micellar water, or makeup remover liquid to thoroughly remove sunscreen from your face.
3. Hydrate Your Skin
After removing SPF and rinsing ocean water from the skin, it is essential to hydrate, nourish and protect the skin.
Start by spraying yourself with an oxygenating spray like L’Eauxygénante, and use Extraits Tissulaires or Amniotique serums to replenish water loss in the skin. Follow up with Environ’s C-Quence 1-4 serums to add vitamin A, E and C to the skin. Antioxidants will help strengthen the skin from the harmful effects of the sun.
Finish up with Crème Masque Vernix — this treatment cream is like a second skin that will help nourish and repair the skin after it’s exposed to environmental stressors and UVA/UVB rays. I highly recommend sleeping with this cream on to experience its full benefits.
Don’t forget to hydrate and replenish the skin on your body as well! I recommend using Environ’s Derma-Lac Lotion and Environ’s Body Oil Forte. This duo is packed with antioxidants and will help fight free radical damage from the sun.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Hydrating from the inside is just as important as external hydration. Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during a long day out in the sun. This helps maintain your skin’s elasticity, plumpness, and promotes a healthy glow.
Coconut water is also a great option as it replenishes electrolytes lost through sweat. Adding electrolytes or Celtic salt to water is an alternate electrolyte-infused option.
5. Protect and Heal Sunburn
If you do get sunburned, it’s important to treat it properly.
Apply aloe vera or a sunburn-specific cream to reduce inflammation and pain. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can also help with severe sunburns.
Keep sunburned areas out of the sun until they have healed completely to prevent further damage. Start using Environ’s C-Quence 1-4 serums and Crème Masque Vernix as soon as possible to help with repair
6. Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing
After a day in the sun, your skin needs to breathe.
Wear loose, lightweight, and breathable fabrics to avoid further irritation. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are ideal as they allow air to circulate and prevent sweat build-up.
7. Avoid Hot Showers
Hot showers can strip your skin of essential oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Instead, take cool or lukewarm showers to help soothe your skin and reduce inflammation after time out in the sun. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing it harshly.
Keeping your skin healthy after exposure to sun, salt, and sand requires a combination of proper cleansing, hydration, and protection. By following these tips, you can enjoy your summer activities while maintaining glowing, healthy skin.
Remember, your skin is your body’s largest organ, so treat it with care and it will reward you with a radiant, youthful appearance.
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