When the mercury rises, so does our risk of contracting skin-related problems. From UV rays to dehydration, heat can wreak havoc on your skin at any time of year, but it’s especially damaging during the summer. To help you stay cool and keep your skin in peak condition during these hot days, we consulted with a Delran dermatologist about how to stay healthy in the heat.
Stay Hydrated In The Heat
While it’s important to stay hydrated year-round, it’s especially important to do so during the summer. Why? Well, as you sweat, water is lost through your skin and as you lose water, you lose electrolytes, too. When you’re low on electrolytes, your body can’t do some of its most basic functions properly, including regulating your temperature. This can lead to overheating and sunstroke, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
How much should you drink? That depends on your age, weight, activity level and the weather, so there’s no magic number. But, generally, women need about 11 cups of liquid per day, and men need about 13 cups. And, when it’s hot out, you’re likely to need even more. To stay hydrated, try to drink water throughout the day, as well as other non-caffeinated fluids like unsweetened iced tea and mineral water.
Watch Out For UV Rays
Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, UV rays are a common risk in the summer. And, while they tend to be stronger during the summer, they’re present all year round. So, whether you’re on a beach vacation or walking in the park, it’s important to protect your skin from sun damage.
There are three types of UV rays that pose a risk to your skin, so it’s important to protect yourself from all of them. UVB rays are the most common and are the ones that cause sunburn. UVA rays can cause sunburn and wrinkles and may actually be more harmful than UVB rays. And then there are UVC, which are the ones that cause the most damage. Luckily, they can be blocked by the ozone layer.
Ditch The Scented Products
During the summer, it’s important to keep your skin clean and hydrated, but you should ditch your scented products. Why? Well, many soaps and cleansers contain ingredients that can damage your skin, and some can even lead to rashes and other skin conditions. If you find yourself breaking out in a rash, it’s probably due to the ingredients in your cleanser or soap. That said, it’s important to remember that alcohol-based cleansers, like hand sanitizers, can be just as damaging. So, if you’re itching from a cleanser, try switching to an alcohol-free version. And, when it comes to your moisturizer, you’ll want to choose something fragrance-free.
Wear SPF Daily
Remember the importance of wearing SPF daily during the summer. Ideally, you’ll apply sunscreen before you leave the house. But, if you’re in a rush, you can apply it while you’re in the car. Just be sure to seek shade as soon as possible if you’re outdoors. Make sure you use a sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30. And, ideally, you’ll want to choose a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Some sunscreens are better than others, so make sure you choose a good one. But, most importantly, make sure you apply it properly. You’ll want to apply two tablespoons of sunscreen to your body, so you may want to use a spray or a lotion that’s easier to apply. And, when you’re outdoors, you should reapply your sunscreen every two hours.
Protect Your Skin From The Sun And Heat With A Good Diet
Your diet can have a big impact on your skin. A diet high in fruits and vegetables can help improve your skin’s appearance and make it stronger. And, while eating a healthy diet is important all year round, it’s especially important during the summer. Why? Well, when the weather is hot, your body produces extra sweat and drops your blood sugar, which can make it harder for your body to process vitamins and minerals.
To make sure your diet is protecting your skin from the heat, try eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and make sure your water intake is high. You may also want to try adding some omega-3 fatty acids, iron and vitamins C and E to your diet. With these nutrients, your skin will be healthier and better prepared for the heat. And with a healthy diet, you’ll be ready for any skin-related problems the summer may bring.
