1. Use Self Tanner To Get That Summer Glow
The sun can be incredibly harmful to your skin. Frequent tanning, especially for very pale skin can lead to age spots, premature aging, sunburns and even skin cancer. The best and safest way to get a bronzed look in the summer is to try self-tanning lotion instead. There are many different types of self-tanning product. One of our favorites is the Tantasia Self Tanner & Bronzer by Jane Iredale. Some tanning lotions can have an orange look to them, but we like this product because it appears natural on any skin tone.
2. Use An SPF Tinted Moisturizer
Even if you aren't planning a day at the beach, the suns rays can still reach your skin. Whether you're sitting by the window in your office or even taking the patio seat at lunch, you can end up getting unexpectedly sunburnt. We find that applying an SPF tinted moisturizer in the morning can help to protect your skin at all hours of the day. The sun is always shining, even when you aren't thinking about it. We like G.M. Collin Mineral BB Cream, it provides a light level of sun protection while giving a natural 'makeup-free' look to the face.
3. Wear Sunscreen
This is obvious but in most cases, we overlook certain areas that need sunscreen. When you are prepping for a day at the beach or pool, don't forget to apply sunscreen in these key areas:
Ears
If you are not wearing a sun hat, your ears are directly in the suns light. Many people end up with red and severely burnt ears, simply because it's such an easy area to forget.
Toes and Feet
When you're tanning, your feet are getting the same amount of sunlight as the rest of your body, toes and feet are one of the most common places we forget to apply sunscreen. It can lead to second-degree burns if you're laying out in the sun for hours. It can also cause the skin on your feet to wrinkle and become prematurely aged due to sun damage.
Elbows and Knees
Elbows are another commonly forgotten place to apply sunscreen. When you apply to your arms, don't forget to apply sun protection to these areas of your skin. The skin on your elbows and knees can darken faster than the rest, it is also often prone to dryness.
Eyelids and Lips
Wearing sunglasses is the best route to go, but always try and apply sunscreen to your eyelids as well. Remember, the sun shines from directly above you, which means your eyes, nose, and mouth are vulnerable to its rays. There is hardly anything more painful than severe burns on and around your face, protect your eyes and mouth and apply extra SPF. Apply an SPF infused lip balm to your lips periodically throughout the day as well.
Try our high-end sun protection, Obagi Nu-Derm Healthy Skin Protection SPF 50, this product is perfect for outdoor use.
4. Avoid The Sun During The Hottest Times Of Day
Depending on where you live, the sun is generally at it's most powerful during the middle of the day. Try to avoid direct sunlight between roughly 11am-2pm. This is when the sun shines directly above you in the sky. The effects of harmful UVA and UVB rays can be incredibly dangerous at this time. If you are at the beach during this time of day, seek out a shady spot or bring a light t-shirt or cover-up to wear when the sun is at it's hottest.
5. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water during the long, hot summer days. It will keep your skin looking healthy and moisturized, and it will also help to prevent 'sun-stroke' or heat exhaustion if you are out in the sun for too long. If you do suffer from heat exhaustion, a great way to recover is to stay indoors and drink plenty of water. Try adding some fresh fruits or cucumbers to your water for flavor as well as added nutrients.
6. Wear Sunglasses
Your eyes are incredibly important and the skin around them is particularly delicate and sensitive. Wear sunglasses as often as you can when you are faced with direct sunlight. The sun can still affect your eyes even if you are under a protective umbrella or driving. Squinting due to the bright sunlight can cause premature wrinkles and age spots. Be sure to buy full coverage sunglasses to protect all areas around your eyes. Quality sunglasses can be expensive, but they are a good, long-term investment for your skin and eye health.
7. Wear A Hat
It can be hard to protect the very top of your head from the sun. It's also one of the most difficult places to notice signs of skin cancer. Wear a hat to ensure that this area is covered at all times while you're in the sun. A wide-brimmed hat also protects your eyes, face, and neck from the suns rays. This skin is some of the most sensitive on your entire body and it's very important to keep it protected.
8. Seek Out Shade
If you're at the beach or the pool, try to find a tree or shady spot that you can rest under. If there aren't any shady spots, create your own! Simply bring a large beach umbrella and set it up by the water, or create a makeshift tent with your beach towel. Getting some shade, even if you don't spend the whole day under it, is a good way to help prevent sunburns as well as heat exhaustion.
Talk With A Specialist About The Right Suncare Products
At Le Petit Spa, we carry professional sun protection and skin care products in the shop and in the online store. Come on in and talk with our skin care professionals. Ask about what type of SPF would be best from your skin type. If you've recently had too much of the sun and your skin feels dry, ask about our hydrating facials. View some of our highest rated sun care products online. Keep your skin safe this summer, visit us today!