3 Essentials for Your Natural Summer Glow

Are you ready to embrace your natural skin this summer? The sun’s UV rays damage the skin, so it’s vital to protect the body’s largest organ before heading outside. Although sun-kissed skin gives the appearance that many desire, people often do not realize its impact on our skin’s health. When the sun darkens your pigment, it’s actually damaging healthy cells in the process. It’s time to embrace your natural glow. Be sure to use these three must-have products for protecting your skin this summer.

Sunscreen

Everyone should wear sunscreen daily and throughout the entire year. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point, so it’s essential to choose a product that will be the healthiest and safest for you.

Ensure to protect your skin against UVA and UVB rays, and use sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, water-resistant, and has an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to wear sunscreen every time you plan to leave your home. Even on cloudy or rainy days, 40 percent of the sun’s UV rays still reach the earth’s surface.

We recommend working a facial sun protectant into your morning routine for the best protection and natural aging. By adding this step, which takes just a few seconds, your skin will thank you down the line. It’s necessary to choose a different product for your face than the body. Facial sunscreens are formulated with antioxidants to keep your pores clear and skin moisturized, all while protecting it from harmful UV rays. For your body, remember the shot glass method. Use approximately 1 ounce or a shot glass of sunscreen to cover your entire body. Don’t forget to reapply through the day.

Lip Protectant

Pucker up! Use a lip protectant to keep your lips hydrated and kissable this summer. Nearly 70 percent of people who use sunscreen while at the beach will forget to apply some protection to their lips. Our lips do not have melanin or sebaceous glands in them, meaning they are more susceptible to sun damage and dehydration.

One of the easiest ways to keep our lips hydrated is by drinking water. However, without exfoliation, the skin on our lips will promote dry skin and cause them to crack. Use a lip scrub and soft toothbrush to exfoliate the dead skin cells. Follow the exfoliation with a lip balm containing an SPF of at least 30 to provide backup protection and hydration. Refrain from exfoliating too often or too forcefully because this will leave the lips red and raw. Shop one of our favorite SPF lip shines at our online store.

Exfoliation

At the end of winter, exfoliation is a common practice to shed the skin of any and all dead cells that accumulated throughout the cold season. However, it’s also important to exfoliate the skin as we start to soak up the sun in the warmer months. Exfoliation increases blood circulation, which is the main factor in achieving healthy, glowing skin.

It is recommended to gently exfoliate twice a week with a body scrub that contains grainy particles. Follow up with a lightweight moisturizer to add hydration back to your skin. 

As you head out this summer, remember these three steps to achieve a natural glow. Healthy skin is the best skin. If you have any questions or concerns about your skin or want to know what products are best for you, our skilled medical providers can assist you.  

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