Summer skincare
Have fun outdoors – but don’t forget to protect yourself against the sun’s harmful rays
FACE
UV rays from the sun cause sun spots, pigmentation and wrinkles – and one of the first places you’ll notice this damage is on your face.
That’s why you need to apply sunscreen to your face every day, even if it’s overcast. Apply it 15 to 30 minutes before you step outside and reapply every two hours. Use a sunscreen or moisturiser with an SPF that’s at least 30.
You can also layer products that have SPF, for example your moisturiser, primer, foundation and powder. This adds extra protection – but remember at least one product must be SPF30 or above as the SPF count in each don’t add up to a higher number.
Also, keep in mind that even if your foundation, BB or CC cream contains a high SPF it’ll only be effective if you apply it liberally. If you don’t like using too much makeup, stick to a sunscreen or moisturiser.
HANDS
Don’t forget about your hands. Like your face, they’re one of the first areas that show signs of ageing caused by sun damage.
While the rest of our body is usually protected by clothes, hands are almost always exposed to the sun. We take for granted how hard they work and the harsh chemicals in hygienic soaps or waterless hand sanitisers they’re exposed to – they all take their toll.
Choose hand creams with an SPF and anti-ageing properties. These are usually formulated so they don’t leave a residue or sticky feel. You can also use gloves and hand treatments, such as hand masks, that help deliver nutrients and intense hydration to the skin on your hands.
AFTER BURNING
Slip-ups happen – you think it’s overcast so you don’t bother with sunscreen, but a few hours later your skin is sore, damaged and dehydrated.
If you have sunburn, apply after-sun lotions and creams. They won’t heal your sunburn but will help restore moisture lost, relieve the discomfort and help repair the skin’s surface. Gently wash your skin with a hydrating cleanser then moisturise the affected areas with the after-sun lotion. Apply the lotion to the affected areas daily until discomfort eases.
BODY
While many people slather sunscreen onto their face at the beach, they often neglect to take the same care with the rest of their body. UV rays penetrate and break down properties beneath the skin that keep it plump and glowing, such as collagen and hyaluronic acid. You can end up with sun spots, discolouration and sagging skin if you don’t apply sunscreen to your body as well. Various sunscreen options are available for the body, from water- and sweat-resistant products to those that don’t stain your clothes. But remember, no product is completely water-, sweat- or rub-proof. Reapply sunscreen after you’ve gone for a dip or every two hours. And even if you’ve applied sunscreen, keep to the shade. Another way to protect your body is to don UV-protective swimwear. These garments usually have a coating that helps absorb harmful UV rays.