Tips for Glowing Summer Skin

Written By Krista Tannahill

Your skin is a reflection of your inner health and well being. Make sure you take all the necessary precautions to protect your skin – and your family’s skin – all summer long by following these simple tips.

Sunscreen

Use a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher. Did you know that most people inadvertently reduce the effectiveness of their sunscreen because they do not use enough to protect their skin? You should use one full ounce of sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of skin – enough cream that it takes approximately one full minute to absorb onto your skin. That is equal to one shot glass full of sunscreen. Don’t skimp– use plenty of sunscreen to ensure you are protected from potentially harmful UV rays.

Sunscreen should be water resistant and applied to the skin 20-30 minutes before you head out the door. For consistent coverage re-apply every 2-3 hours.

Protective Clothing

If you are outside on a regular basis for work, exercise, sports or fun make sure to wear appropriate clothing to protect you from the sun. Hats with wide brims (to protect your ears), beach umbrellas and clothing made with UVA blockers (for children and adults) are just a few of the ways that you can minimize exposure to the sun.

Wear Sunglasses

Protect your eyes by investing in a quality pair of sunglasses that are effective at filtering out both UVA and UVB rays. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet sun rays can eventually affect the eyes causing cataracts and other damage.

Protect Your Lips and Nose

Make it a priority to protect your lips and your nose which both have the tendency to burn before any other body part. Lip balm with an SPF of at least 15 and sun block cream for the nose are necessary to protect these delicate areas from overexposure to the sun.

Babies Under 6 Months Should Stay Out of the Sun

It is not recommended that babies under the age of 6 months wear sunscreen. Rather, it is suggested that babies under 6 months stay out of the sun whenever possible. If a baby is outside he or she should be wearing a protective hat, clothing and eyewear to ensure they are protected from the effects of ultra violet rays on their skin. Children over 6 months of age should follow the same guidelines as adults with regards to protective measures when heading outside.

Sun Protection is Year Round!

Remember that we need to protect our skin from UV rays whether it is sunny, cloudy, foggy or rainy! Winter, spring, summer or fall – whenever there is daylight there is a risk of exposure to UV rays. So take the necessary care to protect you and your family from those pesky UV rays!