Our humid Indiana summers are easier on our complexions than drier climates, but whether we're out enjoying the sunshine or indoors cooling off by the air conditioner, we still need to take care of ourselves. Here are some tips for maintaining glowing, healthy skin this season.
1. Go Easy on the Soap
We're more active during the summer. When we perspire or get dirty, we wash up more frequently. Be sure you aren't washing away the natural oils that keep your skin healthy and supple. Rinse your face with clean, lukewarm water, and pat dry. If you're really dirty, go ahead and wash with a mild soap, and remember to moisturize afterward.
2. Moisturize
Air conditioners, wind, and sun dry out our skin, even on humid days. Be sure to keep up your moisturizing routine, especially after bathing. Look for natural moisturizers that are free of alcohol, dyes and preservatives.
3. Avoid Abrasives
Washing your skin with rough cloths or abrasive scrubs damages your skin, causing moisture loss and inflammation. Always moisturize after shaving with a razor, or consider gentler alternatives to hair removal.
4. Eat Healthy Fats
Moisturize your skin from the inside by including healthy oils in your diet. Avocados, oily fish, whole eggs, and nuts are rich in beneficial fatty acids and vitamins important to skin health.
5. Avoid Excessive Alcohol, Inside and Out
Summer means barbecues, parties and evenings spent on the patio sipping adult beverages. We already know that beauty products and after-shave containing alcohol dry out skin, but did you know that drinking too much alcohol also damages skin cells? It's true. Alcohol is a diuretic, reducing water retention in our tissues. Cut back on alcohol this summer to help preserve your vibrant glow.
6. Apply Sunscreen
We recommend sunscreen year-round and in summer, it's important to remember to frequently reapply your ultraviolet protection. We can recommend products that are safe and healthy, or you can make your own sunscreen using natural ingredients. Either way, take steps to protect yourself from excessive UV rays this summer, and look for products that contain UV-reflecting minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These tend not to break down as quickly as chemical-based sunscreens.
7. Hats & Protective Clothing
Protect your skin, scalp, and hair from sun damage with a hat this summer, and shop for UV-resistant summer clothing to protect you as you enjoy our beautiful Indiana weather. UV-resistant clothing is made with a tighter fabric weave, allowing fewer rays to penetrate to the skin's surface. Is your clothing protecting you? Hold the fabric up, while backlit by a bare light bulb. If you can see the outline of the bulb, that garment is not likely to prevent sun damage.
8. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water this summer keep your whole body hydrated. Add citrus slices and peels to your water bottles to infuse your refreshment with beneficial, detoxifying vitamins, and try coconut water for potassium and natural electrolytes.
9. Rinse Off the Chlorine
Are you planning to spend some time at the pool? Chlorine and other pool chemicals dry out skin and hair. It's always a good idea to take a shower after a soak in the hot tub or after your fitness swim.
10. Get Plenty of Sleep
Extended summer daylight keeps us awake and active later than the rest of the year, and when we disrupt our sleep patterns, it affects our skin health. You'll work hard and play hard this summer, so be sure to take care of yourself by getting plenty of rest. Be sure to allow yourself time to unwind to ease your transition to sleep, and avoid caffeine late in the day. (Caffeine is another diuretic, so be sure to drink it in moderation!)
