One of the best things about summer is getting outside and basking in the sun. However, too much exposure to the sun’s UV rays can result in serious skin damage. Sun damage is possible any time of the year but summer is typically when our skin receives the most exposure. This damage can manifest in various forms from increased wrinkling and age spots to skin cancer. Although there are positive benefits to soaking up the sun, such as Vitamin D, it’s important to avoid overexposure. Here are some tips to help you protect your skin while enjoying the warmth of the summer sun.
Use Sunscreen
We can’t stress this enough. Consistently using sunscreen is one of the best ways to prevent summer skin damage. You need to use it every day, not just when you are at the beach or the pool. No matter what you are doing, if you are going to be exposed to the sun, you need to wear sunscreen. According to the American Cancer Society, you should use sunscreen that has a rating of at least 30 SPF (Sun Protection Factor). The sunscreen should be a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and be water-resistant. If you are going to be out in the sun for extended periods, make sure to reapply sunscreen to all areas of exposed skin every two hours. At Vive we carry EltaMD, a premier medically approved sunblock.
Limit Direct Sunlight
Are you going to be outdoors all day? In addition to using sunscreen, there are ways you can limit your exposure and prevent skin damage. Start by seeking a spot with some shade where you can retreat to take a break from the sun. It’s a great way to cool off a little and a perfect time to reapply your sunscreen. If there isn’t any natural shade, such as when you’re at the beach, be sure to supply your own. Bring a beach umbrella, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV protective sunglasses. You can also wear clothing designed to increase protection against the sun such as Coolibar, Cabana Life, and more. It is also helpful to plan your outdoor activities for times that will allow you to avoid the hours when the sun’s damaging rays are the strongest, between 10 am and 2 pm.
Fight Back Against Skin Damage
No matter how vigilant you are when it comes to protecting against the sun, other factors can result in skin damage. Smoking (even secondhand smoke), poor diet, too much alcohol, excessive exfoliation, and of course, aging just to name a few. There are ways to reduce the signs of sun damage and rejuvenate your skin.
HydraFacial
This facial treatment improves long-term skin health. With the very first treatment, your skin will be invigorated. It combines exfoliation with hydrating and moisturizing serums to refine the skin’s appearance. Continued HydraFacial treatment can reduce the appearance of brown spots, fine lines, and wrinkles while improving the skin’s overall texture.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are another way to reduce the effects of sun damage. Different types of peels vary in intensity from mild to strong. Each uses different acids that work to remove the surface layer of damaged or aged skin to reveal the healthier skin below. Peels that contain glycolic acid stimulate the production of collagen which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Microdermabrasion
A microdermabrasion treatment cleanses skin of dead skin cells, oil, and dirt, increasing blood flow and collagen production This can help to reduce skin damage like fine lines and wrinkles, giving skin a more youthful appearance.
PicoSure Laser
Skin resurfacing treatments with PicoSure laser can significantly reduce dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles resulting from sun damage or aging. Using picosecond technology, these treatments stimulate collagen production to give skin a smoother, more youthful look and feel.
Medical-Grade Skincare
Using medical-grade skincare products such as Alastin, SkinMedica, EltaMD or Zo Skin Health can improve and maintain the health of your skin. They are infused with vital nutrients and many contain 30 SPF to protect against skin damage from the sun.
Professional Skin Care at Vive
At Vive Aesthetics and Wellness, we offer treatments and products to help you combat skin damage. Our services include a variety of other skincare treatments to minimize the signs of premature aging from sun exposure. Schedule a consultation today and we’ll help develop a skin care regimen just for you.
