By Taylor A. Dumars
We can attest to the fact that skin is in! New products and methods to maintain a healthy glow are all the rage. Healthy skin is often a symbol of self-care. Here are three tips for taking care of your skin this summer:
- Get the recommended levels of vitamin C.
Vitamin C assists in retaining the collagen in our skin, while cleaning free radicals to prevent DNA damage, helping to control inflammation. Additionally, maintaining a healthy moisture level in the skin prevents wrinkles and prompts vibrancy.
With the popularity of the dewy skin look, Dondee Nations, aesthetician at Belladona in Cape Girardeau, says getting the recommended amount of vitamin C each day is vital. Although you can buy skin products with added vitamin C, the vitamin is found in foods consumers eat daily. Specifically, many fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and kiwis, contain this essential vitamin. However, if those greens and fruits are not your forte, renowned skin care brands offer vitamin C serums. For adults, be sure to intake 64 to 90 milligrams each day for optimum health.
- Use sunscreen daily.
Sidney McAlister, client services coordinator at Shine Medical Aesthetics in Cape Girardeau, advises anyone looking to maintain exceptional skin in the summer to “use sunscreen before anything.”
Why?
“Before you can hydrate the skin optimally and benefit from a summer glow, your skin must be in tip-top condition,” McAlister says.
SPF stands for sun protection factor; thus, the higher the number, the greater degree of protection. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ assists in minimizing clear signs of aging and further sun damage. McAlister adds the most important ingredients to look for in a sunscreen are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, as they prevent harmful UVA and UVB rays from causing detriment to our skin. Being consistent and applying sunscreen or daily moisturizers, serums and chapsticks with SPF protection as directed is key to protecting your skin.
- Stay hydrated.
Hydration during the warmer months is essential; we must remember to hydrate internally, as it reflects externally. Plenty of water and a diet rich in hydrating elements, such as cucumbers — a summer staple — pineapples and strawberries, can help.
Staying hydrated during the summer “helps to revitalize the skin and acts as a barrier to help against damage,” says Patti Carr, manager of Sephora in Cape Girardeau.
Be sure to plan ahead and pack enough water and hydrating foods before you leave your house each morning to keep your skin radiant all day.
Summer skincare is all about protection and hydration; after all, it remains the key to a healthy, beautiful glow. By following these tips, you can make your skin smile the same way you’ll be smiling on all your sunny summer adventures.
