Summer brings longer days, more outdoor activities, and basking in the summer heat by the pool. Unfortunately, it also goes hand-in-hand with an increased risk of skin damage.
Knowing how to protect skin from chlorine and harmful sun rays is key to maintaining healthy, radiant skin. So, if you’re ready to enjoy the rest of the warmer months while keeping your skin in top shape, read on!
Essential Summer Skincare Tips
When we think about blue light, many of us often think of our phones, computers, and TV screens. But did you know that the sun is the largest source of blue light?
So how does melanin protect the skin from this blue light? Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of your skin, hair, and eyes. It acts as a natural defense mechanism by absorbing and scattering UV and blue light, thereby reducing the risk of damage and discoloration.
However, while the melanin in your skin provides some level of protection, it’s not enough on its own. When it comes to learning how to protect skin from blue light and chlorine so you can stay looking your best, keep these tips in mind:
Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are major culprits for aging and wrinkling, as they can penetrate deeply into the layers of the skin. On the other hand, UVB rays affect the skin’s surface and are the reason why you burn after spending too much time in the sun.
To ensure adequate protection, choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while higher SPF levels can provide even more protection.
How does sunscreen protect your skin? Sunscreen contains ingredients that absorb or reflect UV radiation, preventing it from penetrating your skin and causing damage. It creates a barrier on the skin’s surface that helps to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
A common question we receive from clients is “Does primer protect your skin from makeup?” In short, the answer is no. Primer isn’t sufficient. For effective sun protection, you must apply sunscreen.
Apply sunscreen generously and evenly to all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Look into products like EltaMD or Colorescience for advanced formulations that offer broad-spectrum protection and suit your lifestyle.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, especially during hot summer days when you may be more prone to dehydration. When your body is well-hydrated, your skin looks plump and radiant. On hot days, the risk of dehydration increases, so it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
To keep your skin hydrated from the outside, incorporate hydrating serums and moisturizers into your skincare routine. Products like SkinMedica are designed to boost skin hydration and enhance moisture retention. Serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid can attract and hold moisture in the skin, keeping it supple and glowing.
Put on a Hat
Wearing a hat with a wide brim is a practical way to shield your face, neck, and ears from direct sunlight. This is particularly important during peak sun hours between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest. A hat not only provides shade but also reduces the risk of sunburn and premature aging caused by sun exposure.
Seek Shade
Looking for how to protect your skin from the sun naturally? Seeking shade during peak sun hours is the most effective way to reduce your overall sun exposure and minimize the risk of skin damage.
When possible, stay in the shade or under an umbrella, especially during the hours when the sun’s rays are most intense. If you feel you’ve had too much sun, the best thing you can do is seek shade. When in doubt, the UV Index can help you determine the strength of UV radiation and plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
If you’re spending time outdoors, consider using umbrellas or seeking natural shade under trees or structures. These measures can help protect your skin from excessive sun exposure and reduce the risk of sunburn.
Avoid Tanning Beds
Tanning beds are often perceived as a safer alternative to sunbathing as they are controlled, but they actually pose significant risks to your skin. The ultraviolet radiation from tanning beds can damage the skin, leading to an increased risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and sunspots. It’s important to avoid tanning beds altogether and opt for safer alternatives if you desire a tan..
Use Lip Balms
The delicate skin on your lips is just as vulnerable to sun damage as the rest of your skin, however, it’s quite often overlooked. Anytime you head outside, be sure to protect your lips by using lip balms that contain SPF. These lip balms not only keep your lips hydrated but also offer protection from the sun.
Regular application of lip balms with SPF helps prevent sunburn on your lips and reduces the risk of developing chapped or dry lips. Choose a lip balm with at least SPF 15 to ensure adequate protection.
Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes and the sensitive skin around them from UV damage. Exposure to UV rays can contribute to the development of cataracts and other eye conditions, as well as cause premature aging of the delicate skin around your eyes.
Wear sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays. Here’s why sunglasses are essential: they help prevent eye strain, reduce glare, and protect the sensitive skin around your eyes from UV damage.
Take a Bath After the Pool or Beach
While sometimes there’s nothing better than a pool day, swimming in chlorinated pools or salt water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. To protect your skin from chlorine and salt, rinse off as soon as you leave the pool or beach. A gentle bath with a mild cleanser can help remove any residual chlorine or salt, preventing damage and maintaining your skin’s moisture balance.
After-Sun Care
Soothe Sunburns
If you’ve spent too much time in the sun and end up with a sunburn, it’s important to treat it promptly to soothe your skin. Use aloe vera gel or cool compresses to relieve discomfort and reduce redness. Aloe vera has natural soothing properties that help calm the skin and promote healing.
Make sure to avoid further sun exposure until your skin has fully recovered. The last thing you want to do is go back to the beach or pool at this time. Continuing to expose sunburned skin to UV rays can exacerbate the damage and delay healing.
Repair and Moisturize
To help your skin recover from sun exposure, use products that repair and moisturize. Look for products containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which help restore the skin’s natural barrier and improve hydration. Overnight masks or treatments can provide deep hydration and repair, helping to restore your skin’s health and vitality.
If you have noticed sun damage over time, consider exploring Pacific Derm’s treatments for advanced solutions to address sun-damaged skin.
A popular option for sun damage is the Fraxel laser treatment. This non-invasive procedure targets damaged skin cells and promotes the growth of new, healthy skin. It offers quick results and can significantly improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin, effectively taking years off your look. This treatment is an excellent option if you’re seeking to rejuvenate your skin and reverse the visible effects of sun exposure.
Schedule a Consultation to Protect Your Skin in Summer and Achieve Youthful Skin
Knowing how to protect your skin in summer is key to maintaining its health and appearance. For personalized skincare advice and a tailored summer skincare plan, book a consultation with a dermatologist at Pacific Derm. We can help you develop a regimen that meets your specific needs to keep your skin glowing all summer long—and beyond!