Achieving a Healthy Summer Glow
It’s summer time, and that means finding the right balance of sun + shade. Too much sun can lead to sunburn + heat stroke, and consistent over-exposure can have devastating effects (skin cancer, rapid skin aging). Here are some tips to help you get the most out of the warm summer days and get that warm glow you crave.
Cover Up
One of the easiest ways to avoid the damaging effects of the sun is to find shade during peak hours of the day. When your summer activities don’t allow for this, wear UV protective clothing: including hats, sunglasses and lightweight long-sleeved shirts. Beach umbrellas go a long way.
Load Up On Antioxidants (CanPrev Antioxidant Network, Organic Traditons Cacao, Enerex Greens, Ener-C)
Antioxidants help protect the skin from UV damage by neutralizing free radicals that are generated by exposure to UV radiation. Free radicals cause oxidative stress, that can lead to skin cell damage, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Skin-friendly antioxidants like green tea, CoQ10, cacao, and vitamins C + E help to reduce inflammation, promote skin repair and boost collagen production.
Eat Healthy Fats (New Roots Wild Omega 3, New Roots Evening Primrose)
The suns rays promote the formation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Essential fatty acids from evening primrose, borage, fish, nuts and seeds have strong anti-inflammatory effects – these help to reverse damage caused by UV rays. While not a replacement for sunscreen, healthy fats help the skin to retain moisture and can protect against UV rays by bolstering the skin’s internal defenses.
Apply Natural Sunscreen (All Good Sunscreen)
Natural sunscreen uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to form a physical barrier on top of the skin. This barrier blocks the suns rays in ways that are safer for both you and the environment. For optimum protection, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Apply 15-30 minutes before going outside and be sure to cover all exposed skin (ears, back of neck, tops of feet, etc). Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours, and more often if you are swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.
Topical Hydration (Lily of the Desert Aloe)
Applying aloe vera is a great way to protect the skin from damage after UV exposure. It’s ant-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits help to soothe the skin and reverse oxidative damage. Aloe’s ability to retain the skin’s moisture 3 layers deep, as well as its natural cooling effects, provide immediate relief to heat and discomfort from too much sun exposure.
Skin-Friendly Antioxidants
Acure (Vitamin C + Ferulic Serum, Niacinamide Serum)
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for the body’s natural ability to produce collagen and elastin, making it an excellent ingredient for repairing skin after sun exposure. Topical niacinamide – a form of vitamin B3 – is well known for repairing damaged DNA of the skin. It also bolsters the skins immune response to sun damage. Both vitamin C + niacinamide reverse oxidative stress from exposure to UV rays and strengthen the skins barrier.
Newco (Broccofusion Cream)
Sulforaphane – found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli – is a powerful antioxidant. It stimulates glutathione production that helps eliminate harmful compounds generated by sun exposure. This reduces oxidative stress and cellular damage. Sulforaphane helps maintain the integrity of the skin’s DNA, reducing the risk of mutations and long-term damage that can lead to skin cancer.
Stay Hydrated (Organika Electrolytes)
Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium help maintain proper hydration. They are essential in keeping the skin moisturized and protected against sun damage. Electrolytes also play a vital role in cellular function, including the skin cells. They help in nutrient transport, waste removal, and maintaining the cell membrane’s integrity. Well-functioning skin cells are better equipped to repair themselves after exposure to UV rays.
