Summertime Tips to Keep the Sun from Wreaking Havoc on Your Skin

Summer is a time to frolic in the sun and hit the beach for your favorite activities. When we think of summer sunshine, we think of vibrant energy. It’s easy to forget that the sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage your skin, causing the skin to age prematurely and increasing the risk for skin cancer. 

It doesn’t take much. Exposure to UV rays can damage the skin in as little as 15 minutes. With a few practical tips, you can protect your skin and still enjoy the summer.

What’s the deal with UV rays?

UV rays are invisible to the eye and what you can’t see can hurt you. The high energy photons that make up UV rays produce free radicals when they penetrate your skin. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are extremely chemically reactive. They damage cells and are linked to aging and illness. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause damage to your skin.

Tip #1: Wear sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen is one of the most important ways to protect your skin when outdoors. Think of sunscreen as a bulletproof vest. It works by blocking and absorbing UV rays. When you apply sunscreen and go outside, sunscreen causes the UV rays to bounce off your skin, effectively reflecting the UV radiation from the skin. 

Blocking and absorbing UV rays is an important way to protect your skin from damage. Applying a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher provides excellent protection against UV rays. 

Tip #2: Use a high-quality moisturizer

UV rays aren’t the only way the sun can wreak havoc on your skin this summer. The heat generated from the sun causes the skin to lose moisture, drying out your skin. During the summer, it’s wise to step up your moisturizing regimen by using a high-quality daily moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Dry skin looks dull and shriveled and lacks its natural vibrancy. Applying a good moisturizer keeps the skin soft and supple.

Note: Sun exposure can make your skin oily. While it may seem as though you don’t need moisturizer when this happens, looks can be deceiving. The right moisturizer will help keep your skin balanced so that it isn’t too dry or too oily.

Tip #3: Drink plenty of water

When it comes to keeping your skin healthy in the summertime, what you put in your body is just as important as what you put on it. Skimping on your fluid intake can have a negative impact on your skin. 

Water helps the skin stay hydrated and enables the skin to flush out toxins. Dehydrated skin becomes dry and flaky and prone to wrinkling. Ensuring that you’re drinking plenty of water and other fluids this summer helps maintain your skin’s radiance.

Tip #4: Exfoliate

Your skin works hard to regenerate and remain healthy. Did you know that your skin is always changing and regenerates itself every 27 days? As new skin cells form beneath the surface, they push old, dead skin cells forward. While your skin is always working hard, it works even harder to maintain its integrity when exposed to heat and sunlight. That’s why a good exfoliating regimen can keep your skin looking healthy in the summer.

Babies have soft skin because their skin regenerates every few days. As you age, skin turnover slows down and dead skin cells hang around longer, making your complexion look dull. An exfoliator removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and allows the skin to release its natural oils. Regular exfoliation can help make fine lines less visible and improve the health of your skin.

At Vitality of Agoura, helping you look and feel your best is our top priority. To learn more about how we can rejuvenate your skin, contact our Agoura Hills, California, office to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Michael Sarti.