How to take care of your skin in the summer

Summer is approaching once again! Thankfully, due to developments and discoveries in science, we are more aware of the dangers of exposure of your skin to the sun, so we can wear our summer clothes with more comfort of mind.

Here are some tips to remember when going out for the day:

• Try to keep out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest. Tanning is overrated, anyway. But you do need some sun to process vitamin D, which helps keep skin smooth and moist.
• Use sunscreen, although remember that you have to reapply it based on its SPF. Make sure that it's water-resistant ifi you're going swimming! There are even spray-on sunscreens for hair to prevent damage caused by exposure to the sun! Don't forget lip balm with sunscreen in it! Just remember to keep away from lab-created skin products; melanoma is caused by the chemicals in many skin products!
• Think about what clothes you're wearing. Cotton will help prevent sunburn unless the fabric is white. Also, try to reduce the amount of skin exposed to the sun, especially with children.

   

• Try to keep in the shade, or keep items on hand like umbrellas, sunglasses and hats.
• Scrub your skin and keep it hydrated with quality body washes and lotions.
• Ingest cod liver oil and other sources of vitamin D.
• Pay attention to what you eat, and eat healthy; your skin is a reflection of what you eat!

If you develop skin issues, try these tips:

• If you get a sunburn, apply aloe vera gel after it was kept in the fridge. Try putting on a washcloth was was in the freezer as well. And don't pick sunburned skin!
• If you have a blister, depending on where it is, put a Band-Aid on it! It prevents friction and adds padding. When friction is not an issue, you may want to allow it to be exposed to air.
• If you develop head rash, apply a hydrocortisone cream or take an oatmeal bath.