7 Reasons to Protect Skin in the Summer
Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, soak up some sun, and have fun with your friends and family. But while the sun may feel good on your skin, it can also cause a lot of damage if you’re not careful. Here are seven reasons why you should protect your skin in the summer, and some tips on how to do it…
- Prevent Sunburn
One of the most obvious and common effects of sun exposure is sunburn, which is the inflammation and redness of the skin caused by too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sunburns can be painful, itchy, and can cause peeling. They can also increase your risk of skin cancer and premature aging.
To prevent sunburn, you should always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30, reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating, and avoid the sun during peak hours (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
- Avoid Skin Cancer
The most serious consequence of sun exposure is skin cancer, which is the abnormal growth of skin cells due to DNA damage from UV radiation. There are different types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, which vary in their appearance, aggressiveness, and treatment. Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or skin color, and it can be fatal if not detected and treated early.
To reduce your risk of skin cancer, you should follow the same tips mentioned above for preventing sunburn, and also check your skin regularly for any changes or suspicious moles or spots.
- Stop Premature Aging
Another long-term effect of sun exposure is premature aging of the skin, which is also known as photoaging. Photoaging can cause wrinkles, sagging, dryness, discoloration, and roughness of the skin—making you look older than you are. Photoaging is caused by the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which are the proteins that give your skin its structure and elasticity.
To prevent photoaging, you should use sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days or when indoors near windows, and also use moisturizers and antioxidants to hydrate and nourish your skin.
- Avoid Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is the darkening or uneven coloring of the skin due to excess production of melanin, which is the pigment that gives your skin its color. Hyperpigmentation can be caused by various factors, such as hormones, inflammation, or medication, but sun exposure is one of the main triggers. Hyperpigmentation can appear as freckles, age spots, or melasma (brown patches on the face).
To prevent hyperpigmentation, you should use sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible. To treat hyperpigmentation, you can use products that contain ingredients that lighten or fade the dark spots, such as vitamin C, hydroquinone, azelaic acid, or retinoids.
- Prevent Dehydration
Dehydration is the loss of water from your body due to excessive sweating or insufficient fluid intake. It can affect your whole body, but it can also affect your skin specifically. It can make your skin dry, dull, flaky, and prone to irritation and infection.
To prevent dehydration, you should drink plenty of water throughout the day (at least eight glasses), especially when you’re in the sun or doing physical activity. You should also avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you further.
- Avoid Heat Rash
Heat rash is a skin condition that occurs when your sweat glands become blocked and inflamed due to high temperatures and humidity. It can cause small red bumps or blisters on your skin that may itch or sting. It will usually go away on its own once you cool down and dry off your skin, but it can be uncomfortable and annoying while it lasts.
To prevent heat rash, you should wear loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen, avoid heavy creams or oils that can clog your pores, and stay in cool and shady places as much as possible.
- Reduce the Risk of Infections
Infections are another problem that can affect your skin health in the summer. They can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that enter your skin through cuts, scrapes, or insect bites.
Some common infections that can occur in the summer are impetigo (a bacterial infection that causes yellow crusty sores), ringworm (a fungal infection that causes circular red patches), and more.
To prevent infections, you should keep your skin clean and dry, avoid touching or scratching any wounds or lesions, and use antiseptic creams or ointments if needed.
Protect Your Skin!
Protecting your skin in the summer is not only important for your appearance but also for your health. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the sunny season without compromising your skin’s well-being.