do’s DON’TS of summer

from Area Woman Magazine Jun/Jul '17

by Lake & Home Magazine | Area Woman Magazine

JUNE JULY

skin + hair hacks for warmer months

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@sifascorner

well, hello summer!

It feels like a blessing to enjoy the warmer weather of summer in Fargo-Moorhead. All we want to do is go outside and enjoy the warmth and bliss. But wait, aren’t you forgetting something? I’m talking about your skin, hair and overall beauty routine. Due to the increased sun exposure and ultraviolet rays, we need to be extra careful about our body in the warmer months. To make sure you can enjoy your summer activities to the fullest, I am going to share some do’s and don’ts for summer beauty.

SUN TAN or USE A TANNING BED

Skin is the largest organ of our body but tends to get the most neglect. Harmful activities like sun tanning or using a tanning bed can cause premature skin aging including wrinkles, lax skin, brown spots and even skin cancer.

Skip Sun Protection

Even if you work indoors near a window, the powerful UV rays can harm your skin. So use a good sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor) before starting your day. There are many types — liquid, powder, spray, gel, cream. Pick one and reapply it throughout the day.

DON'T DON'T

Forget To Moisturize

We often forget that our skin needs to be moisturized even in summer. This rule applies to all skin types. Just select a moisturizer appropriate for your specific skin type and concerns.

USE BRONZER or SELF-TANNER

Use a self-tanner instead. Some self-tanners get darker over time and some give instant results. Self-tanning products are available in liquid, powder and spray-on form. If you only want to warm up your face, lightly apply a bronzer on the areas where sun hits naturally … and voila! 1

CHOOSE DIFFERENT METHODS of SUN PROTECTION

Sun protection isn’t limited to sunscreen. If you are spending hours in harsh sunlight, use sunglasses, scarf and hat to provide extra protection. 2

Do Do Do

Moisturize And Sooth

Use a mild and fast-absorbing moisturizer and apply it on your skin at least once daily. Also try “dry oils” which absorb quickly and leave skin smooth and supple without any greasiness. 3

NEGLECT WASHING SKIN PROPERLY:

All the sweat and dirt accumulating on our skin throughout the day should be washed off. Negligence of proper face-washing is one reason we get more breakouts in summer.

EXFOLIATE:

Use a face brush or face scrub at least 2-3 times weekly to get rid of the dead skin. Those who wear makeup, I will suggest to use a face brush with your cleanser every time you take off makeup. It will remove the makeup and impurities that collect on your skin. 4

FORGET TO WASH the CHLORINE or SALT OFF YOUR HAIR:

Most of the time we forget to take precaution or properly wash out the chlorine or salt from our hair after swimming. To protect the hair, wet it and use a swimming cap. After swimming, wash hair and scalp with a shampoo and conditioner specifically made for removing chlorine.

PROTECT YOUR HAIR and SCALP:

Use a deep conditioning mask once weekly (dry, curly hair) or twice monthly (thin, straight hair). Also use a leave-in cream to protect your hair. Want to bring back life to your tresses? Use a dry shampoo to take out the oiliness and create volume. 5

DRINK TOO MUCH COFFEE:

Just like you, I cannot start my day without caffeine. But too much caffeine will eventually dehydrate the skin. So at least try to minimize your caffeine intake.

STAY HYDRATED:

Staying hydrated is crucial in the warmer months. If you are looking to spice things up, make sugar-free juice at home with fresh fruits or lemonade with lots of ice. Sip it throughout the day to revitalize your body!

Finally, don’t get discouraged by all the “do this and not that” lists. Just take these few small steps, and get outside and have some fun under the sun!

Reduce the effects of aging, improve skin tone and create a younger-looking you at Sanford Dermatology & Laser Clinic.