There are many dangers that we may face in the summertime but one that is the most common is a problem with your skin. Unless you protect and care for your skin properly there may be any number of different issues that can occur. In this article, we’re going to cover some of those problems that include sunburn and the possibility of dry skin or premature aging. As long as you take the proper precautions and follow the following tips, you can enjoy the summer without having to worry about your skin.
The skin is more than a covering for the body, it is the largest organ that we possess. It is responsible for a number of different processes, including protecting our muscles from damage and keeping infection from entering the skin. That being said, it is also the organ that is exposed to the outside world, and as a result, it is possible for damage to occur. That is especially true in the summer months when we tend to be exposed to the elements more than we are at other times of the year. The following tips can help to keep you safe.
Adjust sunscreen usage – although it is possible to get sunburned at any time of the year, the sun is a lot more intense during the summer months. That is why it is important to increase your sunscreen. Not only should you apply it on a regular basis, you should also use a sunscreen that is a minimum of SPF 30.
Sunscreen is not only important for avoiding sunburn, it can also help to protect the skin from premature aging and even from certain types of skin cancer. Anytime you’re spending time outside, apply sunscreen and reapply it every two hours or so. If you swim, make sure that you use a sunscreen that is waterproof and reapply it after you are done swimming.
Exfoliate – during the summer months, you will probably be washing your face more frequently than you would in the winter. After all, you will be sweating more often and you may be swimming, which can have a damaging effect on the skin as well. That is why it is important to exfoliate, although you want to make sure that you’re not doing it too frequently. Generally speaking, exfoliating the skin once or twice on a weekly basis will be enough to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells and allow the skin to stay fresh.
Remember your lips – most people do what is necessary to protect the skin by using sunscreen but it is also important to protect your lips as well. After all, they’re exposed to the sunlight just as much as the rest of the skin on your face. It is also important to do so because your lips are sensitive to sunlight as well. If you do not protect them, you may end up with dry, chapped or irritated lips and it is also possible to develop skin cancer on the lip as well.
The easiest way to care for your lips properly during the summer months is to use a protective and moisturizing lip balm. You can purchase these over-the-counter at your local drugstore but not all of them are created equally. It is best if you choose one that has an SPF of at least 15 and contains a quality moisturizer.
Stay hydrated – dehydration is a problem at any time of the year if you’re not taking in enough fluids. During the summer months, however, it is much easier to become dehydrated so you need to drink water on a regular basis. Generally speaking, you should drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day but if you’re doing any type of intense physical activity or are out in the sun for an extended amount of time, you may need to drink more.
Water is the best thing to drink for hydration but you may also need to drink Gatorade or another sports drink that contains electrolytes. It can help to replenish what your body loses when you are sweating. Avoid drinks that can further dehydrate you or cause additional problems, such as coffee and energy drinks.
If you experience any problems as a result of serious sunburn or if you have skin problems that need to be checked out, you can visit Better Faster Urgent Care. We provide the assistance that you need without waiting and you will always be a priority when you come in for a visit.
