Skincare Survival Guide for Summer

by nkpadmin | Medical Dermatology, Skincare

5 Easy tips to keep your skin healthy and bright all summer long:

1. Use Sunblocks ALWAYS!

Choosing sun protection can be an overwhelming task. Look for sun protection that is a true sun-BLOCK (also referred to as physical protection). True sunblocks contain Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide; ingredients that are found in most medical grade sunblocks and some mineral makeups. They are naturally occurring minerals that provide good, broad spectrum coverage of both UVA and UVB rays, thereby protecting you from skin cancers and premature again. Some medical grade sunblocks are now tinted, meaning that they blend into your natural skin tone, leaving you protected without a white, cakey residue.

2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

Your skin, just like any other organ in your body, requires adequate hydration particularly in the dry summer months. It is recommended that you drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. If you drink caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, you should plan on increasing the amount of water that you drink. Make sure that you are never far from hydration by keeping a water bottle at your side! Coupled with a moisturizer rich in hyaluronic acid, our body’s natural magnet for water, your skin will stay fresh and supple all summer long!

3. Vitamin C is Your Friend!

When vitamin C (or L-Ascorbic Acid) is applied to the skin directly, the antioxidant neutralizes free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage collagen and cause skin dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Including vitamin C in your daily skincare routine will also protect the skin from UV damage, fades pigmentation, and stimulates collagen production. Mix a small amount into your serum or moisturizer for daily protection.

4. Don’t Skip Eye Creams and Lip Protection

Sun exposure will gradually thin skin and cause wrinkles. Protect the delicate areas of your face, particularly areas around your eyes and lips. Eye creams that contain hyaluronic acid are great for summer since it secures moisture and creates plumping to the skin, but is light enough for the warmer months. Apply and liberally re-apply a lip balm with SPF to keep your lips from drying out and wrinkling.

5. Dark Spot Protection and Prevention

Hyperpigmentation is worsened during the summer months due to an increase in sun exposure. A good home care regimen is essential to controlling dark spots. Retinoids work great for hyperpigmentation because in addition to exfoliating away minor discolorations, it also helps to prevent future dark spots through a photo-protective antioxidant. Apply it at night, since it may induce a heightened risk of sun sensitivity. Additionally, chemical peels superficially injure the skin to provoke a wound-healing response that expels dark pigment. And of course, you’ll want to ensure you are wearing a physical sunblock every day, rain or shine!

The summer time is all about getting outside and enjoying the beautiful weather, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the long term health of your skin. Follow these simple tips to ensure that your skin is looking and feeling great this summer and many more summers to come!

Refine the True You
With Pūr Skin Clinic

Pūr Skin Clinic offers the highest level of personalized care with advanced skin treatments performed by caring experts. Schedule your consultation with us for a truly one-of-a-kind experience and radiantly natural results designed specifically for you. We proudly serve patients in the Edmonds, Kirkland, Shoreline, Mill Creek, and Wallingford/Seattle areas, as well as our destination patients from around the country and the globe.

1002 Lake Street South, Suite 102, Kirkland, WA 98033

Call Today (360) 299-5596