Understandably, when the weather is warm and sunny, the majority of us try to take as much advantage of it as possible. What this translates to is a lot of extra time spent in the sun. While it’s hard to argue that it’s enjoyable to spend time outdoors during the warm and sunny days of summer, it’s also irrefutable that it can be a dangerous activity.
This year, summer officially starts on June 21st! It’s important to remember that the sun’s UV rays will be hard at work trying to damage your skin all summer long. Therefore, it’s imperative that you take measures to protect your skin from sun damage.
Always apply sunscreen before going outdoors.
It should come as no surprise to you to hear that sunscreen application is highly recommended. To be clear, this doesn’t just apply to days spent on the beach or by the pool. Protecting our skin is something to be mindful of at all times. According to dermatologist, Anna Lien-Lun Chienm it’s smart to always apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
“Sun protection factor (SPF) represents a sunscreen’s ability to protect against a specific portion of ultraviolet (UV) light called UVB,” she writes on behalf of Johns Hopkins Medicine, “UVB rays are responsible for sunburns and skin cancer.”
Wear hats, sunglasses and long-sleeved clothing.
These are your friends in the battle against premature aging, sun spots, sunburn and worst of all, skin cancer. By covering up, you significantly lessen your chances of encountering all of the above mentioned conditions. Choose a hat that has at least a two to three inch brim all around. It will protect the skin on your face, ears, and neck from the sun.
“There are ways to cover up besides sunscreen,” writes Alexis Dobranowski for Sunnybrook Hospital, “Wear light, long-sleeve clothing to protect your skin. Linens are nice and airy. Or there’s sun-protective clothing available too. Wear a hat. Avoid the outdoors mid-afternoon when the sun is at its peak. Seek shade. Carry an umbrella.”
Protect your skin from the inside out.
Good nutrition is a huge part of skin health. Naturally, it is important to drink a lot of water in order to keep hydrated. However, it’s also wise to include a number of nutrient-rich foods in your diet all throughout the summer. This is especially important since the summertime is well known for its junk food and alcoholic drink-laden parties.
There are many nutrients that can boost your skin’s natural sun protection and protect your skin from sun damage. They include fruits and veggies such as watermelons, leafy greens, tomatoes, red grapes, strawberries, carrots and pomegranates. Almonds are also great skin protectors.
These nuts are among the best sources of vitamin E, which protects and repairs the skin from sunlight. Almonds also contain quercetin, which is a plant flavonol known to protect against UV damage and the wrinkle-causing breakdown of collagen.
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When you buy a minimum of $150 in facial treatments, which include incredible services like Chemical Peels and HydraFacial, you will receive a Vivier Vitamin C scrub for FREE! To book an appointment, please don’t hesitate to call us at 403-358-5818. You may also email us at amlvc@telus.net.