3 summer skin care mistakes
Avoid the following summer skin care mistakes that lead to premature aging.
1. Excessive heat and sun exposure
Spending excessive time in the heat and sun results in the production of free radicals that harm your skin cells and contribute to premature aging. Excessive heat and sun exposure will damage the collagen cells and the elastin fibres. These two combined are responsible for your skin’s elasticity and firmness. This damage results in wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging of the skin. The skin can also look very dehydrated and creped with a leathery appearance.
Minimize the damage
In order to minimize this damage we can do things such as ensuring that anytime we are outdoors, we’re applying the appropriate protection which is typically recommended to be spf 30+. Keep in mind that you can get some sun protection from mineral makeup products if they are of high grade.
Another thing that we can do for summer skin care is use hats and umbrellas. Taking a break in the shade is important. Not only are the uv rays damaging to the skin, but also the overheating of the skin. This is going to cause inflammation which in turn will cause free radical damage in the skin.
Once you get home, you can do things to help cool the skin and calm the inflammation. For example, applying an aloe vera mask such as the Soothing Gel Mask will help. Other ways to reduce inflammation include using a cold jade roller. Even cold spoons kept in the fridge really help to cool the skin down when it has been overheated.
2. Not drinking enough water
We tend to be a little thirstier over the summer months with the heat and perhaps increased activity. So, making sure you are drinking enough water is very important for the skin. Dehydration can compromise the skin. It accelerates premature aging due to reduced elasticity and moisture levels in the skin. This is going to exacerbate the effects of uv damage. This will lead to wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.
Minimize the damage
Taking steps to ensure you are drinking enough water everyday is very important in maintaining a healthy hydration, preventing moisture loss, and combating premature aging.
Aside from drinking enough water, its good to include products that contain hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine. These products will be very hydrating for the skin and help to give it that ‘dewy glow’. Hyaluronic acid works by applying hydration to the skin but also drawing hydration within the body to the surface of the skin.
3. Unhealthy lifestyle habits
Over the summer we tend to gather socially outdoors a lot more. For example, we gather on patios, barbecues, or at other social events that happen over the summer, such as weddings. There is usually a consumption of alcohol or smoking at these events. Often the dietary choices are delicious but aren’t the healthiest.
Minimize the damage
These things as a whole can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and a breakdown of the collagen in the skin. When you are consuming things that are bad for you, try to decrease the amount you consume, or compensate by using products in your skin that are antioxidants. These products protect your skin from oxidative stressors and help improve the skin’s natural protective barriers.
