Absolutely essential summer skin care tips
Summer in Australia is here again, and every year it gets hotter and longer. This means we need to protect ourselves from the harsh UV rays and give our skin the best chance at surviving the elements. We’ve put together some of our tips for staying safe in the sun, hydrating yourself and a few extra measures you can take to look after your precious skin when the mercury rises.
Protect yourself
SPF is your best friend, not just in summer, but every day! If you haven't invested in a decent sunscreen for your face and body then you’re allowing the sun to do damage to you every moment you’re outside. T harmful UV rays can cause a whole host of damage, including life threatening skin cancers. Enlarged pores, pigmentation, wrinkles and leathery textured skin are all a result of photo-ageing and can be avoided by staying out of the sun. During the hours of 10am-2pm the UV rays are at their strongest, so it is a good idea to find yourself some shade and a cool drink. If staying indoors isn’t an option then a broad spectrum SPF 30+ applied correctly, a hat, sunglasses and a long sleeved shirt are going to be the most effective protection for your skin. Don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen as directed on the bottle, most sunscreens are not water or sweat proof.
Hydration is key
No matter what time of the year it is, there should never be a moment where you are dehydrated. Just like SPF, hydration is a key factor in prevention of ageing and will help make you feel and look your best, inside and out. Up your water intake, (preferably filtered water) and make sure you’re ingesting at least 2 litres a day - more if you have been exerting yourself. If you’ve been sunburnt or have been out in the sun for a little longer than desired, then drinking water will aid in a speedier recovery. After spending the day in the sun, it is always good to remember that you need to hydrate your skin topically. If moisture locking serums like Hyaluronic acid and a night time mask aren’t a part of your skincare routine, then it’s time to look at how to maximise hydration from the outside in.
Introduce a Vitamin C serum
A great all year round addition to your skincare routine is the powerhouse product Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. It is particularly important for the summer months, so if you aren’t using one, now is the time to start. Not only does this strong antioxidant help improve the appearance of fine lines and collagen production, but it also works to prevent hyperpigmentation developing in the skin. If you know that your skin reacts to UV in this way and you are prone to developing areas of pigment or discolouration from sun exposure, then a Vitamin C is going to give you the results you want. This product is suitable for all skin types and is a serious game changer for those people wanting to reverse the signs of sun damage, ultimately helping to pause, then wind back the visible ageing process.
What we do have to remember when it comes to skincare for summer is that everyone has different skin that will tolerate sun exposure differently. What works best for your skin type might not be enough for others. When it comes to protection from the sun and other prevention methods, it is always best to consult with a skincare specialist so you have information tailored to your particular skin type.
Need a bit of extra help with your summer skincare? Please don’t hesitate to get in contact with our team of professionals. Book a consultation today.