June 2009

At the entrance of spring, we do spring cleaning of our homes and wardrobes but what about the products we use to care for our skin? Some people have cabinets full of old skin care products that may not be as effective for the summer months. It's as important to read labels and discard out-dated skin care products as it is to do the same with food. Summer time is quickly approaching, what better time to talk about how to care for your skin during the summer months.

Here are some tips to keep your skin in shape this summer:

1. The most effective and important way in which to shield your skin from the sun’s rays is by using sunscreen and staying out of the sun between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm. Make sure to choose a sunscreen that blocks both UBA and UVA rays. Use at least an SPF of 15 and apply it frequently – 30 minutes before going out, every 2 hours when outdoors and right after swimming or exercising.

2. Wear brimmed hats and light colored clothing to cover your arms and legs.

3. Do not use strong abrasives on your skin. Cleanse your skin with warm water and mild soap.

4. Use a moisturizer on your skin such as body butter. Body butters will not only protect your skin by creating a very effective barrier, they are well known for preventing it from becoming too dry.

5. When sunbathing use the sunscreen particularly on the most sensitive parts of your body such as shoulders, back of your legs, and neck. Look for foundations and moisturizers that have sunblock already added in when shopping.

6. Gently remove makeup with cotton balls so as to not irritate the area around your eyes using a soap-free cleanser and alcohol-free toner as a makeup remover if you have oily skin in the summer.

7. When bathing or showering, it is important not to completely rid your body of its natural oils. Therefore, don’t vigorously dry your body with a towel, but simply pat it dry and add moisturizer afterwards.

8. Use any of the shaving creams or lotion products available when shaving your legs and underarms. A cheap alternative is to use hair conditioner or soap.

9. Drink more water. Because we sweat to keep cool, adding more water to your diet will help your body re-hydrate. And your skin will retain a healthy glow.