The Best Ways to Protect Your Skin while Enjoying the Sun this Summer

With the summer season right around the corner, many of us are getting ready for fun in the sun. In anticipation of warmer weather, it is important that we know how to protect our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Nobody enjoys getting burned, so here are a few easy tips to help keep your skin protected and looking great throughout the summertime.

Sunscreen: The most obvious way to stay protected against the sun’s harmful rays is to apply sunscreen. This should be applied at least 20 minutes before you go in to the sun in order to attain the best results. More importantly, it should be applied every several hours, especially if you are in the water. With so many different types that exist these days, it is important to use a lotion that blocks both UVA/UVB rays and is at least SPF 30.

Antioxidants: Eating foods high in antioxidants protects your body from the free radicals that cause skin cancer. Generally, foods with lycopene and beta-carotene contain the highest number of antioxidants. Some of the most common foods that contain these substances include:

∙ Carrots
∙ Tomatoes
∙ Berries (especially blackberries and blueberries)
∙ Oranges
∙ Watermelon

Stay Hydrated: In many ways, the skin acts as a sponge. Absorbing sunlight can dry your skin out and make it appear dull. Drinking at least six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day will keep your skin hydrated and looking vibrant day-in and day-out.

Avoid Peak Hours: Although it is pretty much impossible for many of us to stay completely out of the sun during the summertime, avoiding it from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. will greatly reduce the risk of developing sunburned skin. Try to stay in shaded areas if you are out during the peak hours of sunshine.

To add a rejuvenated look to your skin or to maintain your youthful appearance, please contact my Scottsdale Plastic Surgery practice for all of your skin care needs by calling (480) 890-0600. I look forward to seeing you soon.