Taking care of your skin should be a priority all year round, but it’s especially important in the summer when the sun’s harmful UV rays are at their strongest. While you may think you’re doing everything right when it comes to your skincare routine, there are always new tips and tricks to learn from the experts.
The Dermatologist in Encino Guide to a Whole Foods Younger Skin Diet, to get her advice on the best way to take care of your skin this summer.
At-Home Treatments for Common Skin Problems
There are many at-home treatments that can help improve the appearance of your skin. These include:
Cleansing: Gentle cleansing with mild soap and lukewarm water is important for all skin types. Avoid using hot water, as this can strip the natural oils from your skin.
Exfoliating: Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. This can be done with a gentle exfoliating cleanser or scrub. Be sure to avoid harsh scrubbing, as this can irritate the skin.
Moisturizing: A good moisturizer will help to hydrate the skin and protect it from environmental damage. Choose a product that is suitable for your skin type (e.g., oil-free for oily/acne-prone skin).
Sun Protection: sunscreen is critical for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. Choose a product with an SPF of 30 or higher, and be sure to reapply every two hours when outdoors.
The Importance of Sunscreen
Most people know that they should be wearing sunscreen to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. But many don’t realize just how important it is to use sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days or during winter.
UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes, and the effects are cumulative. That means that even if you only spend a few minutes in the sun without sunscreen, you’re still putting yourself at risk for long-term damage like wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer.
Wearing sunscreen every day is the best way to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Look for a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, has an SPF of 30 or higher, and is water-resistant. Apply it liberally to all exposed skin—including your face, neck, chest, and hands—15 minutes before going outside. And be sure to reapply it every two hours (or more often if you’re sweating or swimming).
The Best Time of Day to Apply Sunscreen
The best time to apply sunscreen is before you put on your makeup. This gives the sunscreen time to absorb into your skin without being interfered with by other products. If you wait to apply sunscreen until after you’ve put on your makeup, you run the risk of not applying enough or not applying it evenly.
The Difference Between Physical and Chemical Sunscreens
When it comes to sunscreen, there are two main types: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens work by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting the sun’s rays away, while chemical sunscreens actually absorb the sun’s rays.
Both types of sunscreen are effective at protecting against both UVA and UVB rays, but there are some key differences between them. Physical sunscreens tend to be thicker and can be harder to rub in, but they don’t need to be reapplied as often as chemical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens can be easier to apply, but they may need to be reapplied more often throughout the day.
So, which type of sunscreen is right for you? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts, physical sunscreen might be a better option for you. If you have dry skin, a chemical sunscreen might be a better choice.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type?
When it comes to sunscreen, not all products are created equal. In order to choose the right sunscreen for your skin type, it’s important to take into account a few key factors.
First, consider what level of protection you need. If you have fair skin or are particularly sensitive to the sun, you’ll need sunscreen with a higher SPF (sun protection factor). On the other hand, if you have darker skin or don’t tend to burn easily, you can get away with a lower SPF.
Next, think about the formula of the sunscreen. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you’ll want to choose a lightweight, oil-free formula that won’t clog pores. For dry skin, look for a creamier sunscreen that will help hydrate and protect your skin.
Finally, consider any other needs you may have when choosing a sunscreen. For example, if you’ll be spending time in the water, make sure to choose a water-resistant formula. And if you’ll be using it on your face, look for one that is non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and won’t leave your skin feeling greasy.
Dermatologist-Approved Skin Care Tips
There are a lot of myths out there when it comes to taking care of your skin, so it’s important to get the facts from a dermatologist. Here are some tips from our experts:
- Get Regular Skin Check-Ups: It’s important to have your skin checked by a dermatologist at least once a year, especially if you have any moles or spots that look unusual.
- Use Sunscreen Every Day: It’s one of the most important things you can do for your skin. Be sure to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours, even on cloudy days.
- Don’t Smoke: Smoking damages the collagen in your skin, which leads to wrinkles and other signs of aging. If you smoke, now is the time to quit for the sake of your skin—and your health!
- Eat Healthy Foods and Drink Plenty of Water: A healthy diet helps keep your skin looking its best. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Treat Your Skin Gently: Avoid harsh cleaners and scrubbing too hard when washing your face—use gentle motions instead. And when drying off after a shower or bath, pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it vigorously with a towel.