Summer is right around the corner! This is the time to enjoy the warmth and sunshine you’ve been anticipating since the first day of winter. Longer days are ahead, along with plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect season for enjoying yourself, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your skin. In fact, it’s the season where your skin might need even more care and attention.
Summer usually means you’re spending time outdoors in the sunshine. Consequently, with prolonged exposure to heat and ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, your skin is more prone to getting sun spots.
The sun’s effects on the skin shouldn’t stop you from enjoying this time of year but you should do what you can to protect it.
Here are 5 ways to prevent summer sun spots:
1. Sunblock is Essential
Sunblock should be used everyday regardless of what time of year it is, but it is an absolute must during the upcoming summer months. Sun spots are caused by excess exposure from sunshine, UV rays and heat. Sunblock provides a protective layer to the skin to mitigate sun damages.
It’s important to also choose the right sunblock for your skin. You should try to aim for a sunblock that has SPF 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks nearly 97 percent of UVB radiation. According to research done at Duke University Medical Center, combining Vitamin C and E with sunscreen can provide four times the protection compared to only using sunscreen on its own.
InstaNatural’s Vitamin C Moisturizer with SPF 30 is a mineral based broad-spectrum sunscreen that hydrates and nourishes the face. Vitamin C is also a natural skin brightening ingredient, so your skin will have a natural glow while also being protected. It’s the perfect product for summer and works for all skin types! To learn more about the multiple benefits of Vitamin C check out this blog.
Now that you have the correct sunblock for your skin it is important to apply it correctly. When you apply sunblock, first apply it to your finger tips, then dot it all over your face before rubbing it in to ensure an even layer. For even more protection apply the sunblock to your neck, chest and rest of your body. As the day goes on, remember to reapply sunblock to ensure that your skin is well protected.
2. Use Effective Skin Care Products
Sunblock isn’t the only product you should rely on to protect your skin and prevent sun spots. Selecting products that provide even more protection while also nourishing and brightening the complexion can help reduce the chances of getting sun spots.
If you already have a few sun spots and want to minimize their appearance InstaNatural's Skin Brightening Serum is a great option. This serum addresses discoloration and uneven skin tone with the help of the natural active ingredients Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin C. Over time and with consistent care, your dark sun spots will brighten and fade.
In addition to skin care, you can find protective properties in select makeup products too. Some makeup products for the face, like foundation and tinted moisturizers, contain SPF in the formulas. This is a simple way to add an additional layer of SPF.
These makeup products work great as additional care, however there is no substitute for sunscreen when it comes to protecting your skin. It’s essential that you apply sunblock with an SPF of at least 30 or more when starting your day as well as throughout the day. It may sound like a lot, but your skin will thank you for it!
3. Stay Cool
It’s no question that sun spots are formed from excess exposure to the sun and UV rays, but did you know that heat can also cause sun spots? Heat from the sun accelerates the production of melanin, which results in the formation of brown spots on the skin.
To stay cool try placing your skin care products in the refrigerator so that they’re chilled to the touch when you apply them. This is a particularly great tip to use with InstaNatural's Organic Rose Water. This toner is perfect just as it is but cooling it off in the fridge offers a refreshing mist on a hot summer day.
Of course, always remember to stay hydrated! Drinking water throughout a hot summer day is a key step for keeping your body temperature cool and making sure your skin is hydrated.
4. Dress Comfortably
Using a sunblock with a minimum of SPF 30 is important for protecting your skin, but it’s also important to consider what you wear when out in the sun. Strategically choosing what you wear can keep your body cool and protect your skin.
Sunglasses and hats can minimize your exposure to UV rays. It is recommended to wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Additionally, wear light colored clothing with breathable fabric to keep your body cool.
5. Limit your time in the sun
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine, but prolonged exposure under the sun, especially without protection, can accelerate the formation of sun spots on the skin. The sun is typically strongest between the hours of 10am - 4pm, try limiting your time in the sun during these hours. Staying indoors during these times is a great way to give your skin a rest from the sun. If you decide to stay outside, find a shady and well-covered area where you can enjoy the summer season. Remember though, just because you’re in the shade doesn’t mean you should neglect protecting your skin. Always remember to continue to apply sunscreen throughout the day.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be set to enjoy your summer and time outdoors. Your skin will be happy knowing that it’s well-protected, and you won’t have to worry about sun spots on your skin.
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