A good friend of mine recently called because she forgot her sunscreen and got a sunburn. I was able to treat her skin and give her some relief. After the treatment, I went through my list of 10 simple things to protect your skin from summer damage.

It’s More Than The Sun

One of the first things I learned living in the desert is that the sun is not the only environmental factor that will dehydrate your skin.  As a third generation Californian I love driving my car with the windows down. The air is stimulating and it makes me feel great. However, the wind was having a very bad affect on my skin. It was aging me prematurely.

Swimming pools will dry your skin on a hot summer day, even when there isn’t any bleach or harsh chemicals.  This is particularly bad when your SPF is not water resistant. Pool parties were one of my favorite ways to congregate with friends. Not anymore.

10 Simple Things to Protect Your Skin from Summer Damage

1. 1. This is easy and simple. Every morning after you rinse your face or take your shower follow this simple regimen. Start with a hyaluronic based toner, use a moisturizer, and then your sunscreen. Use it on your face, neck, décolletage, back of hands, forearms and all other areas that are exposed to the sun. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. Make sure it is water resistant and has a SPF of 30 or higher.
   2. As much as you hate to, wear a large brim hat.  Also consider wearing long sleeves and be very aware of the back of your hands when you are driving.
   3. Once or twice a week, exfoliate your skin at night before you go to bed. Put your best serums and creams on after.
   4. In the morning consider a light splash of cool water so you don’t dehydrate your beautiful skin.
   5. Use a serum around the eyes and any other dry areas. A serum is a moisturizer that penetrates deeper than a cream.
   6. Be generous with your moisturizers. Since you will be exfoliating regularly, apply as much moisturizer as you feel is necessary.
   7. When you are in an area with insects, be sure to protect your face, neck, decollate, arms, legs and any area that is exposed. Be sure to read the ingredients for that you use the proper type of repellant. As an example, if I were in an area where there are lyme infected ticks, I would apply Deet. Deet may cause epidermal reactions among other health risks. Therefore if I am out walking my dog in Coachella Valley I use a product with less toxic effects.
   8. Be very cautious when you are using RETIN-A.  Avoid the sun as much as you can by going out very early in the morning or after dusk.
   9. Hydrate in every way possible. Hydrate your skin with products rich in hyaluronic acid including toners, creams and serums. Drink lots and lots of water.  There are certain areas of my face that wrinkle when I don’t drink enough water. So, drink up!
   10. Lastly avoid swimming pools during the hot part of the day and use your air conditioner rather than your windows to cool the car.

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