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It is important to protect your skin against the sun and hot weather
It is important to protect your skin against the sun and hot weather during these coming summer months, when the risks increase for the skin.
The fact that the heat dehydrates the epidermis more rapidly and sweating increases humidity, making it more prone to infections, means that during this season of the year, the care we take with our skin should be greater.
The sun, according to leading skin expert Dr. Moses Martin, is “what gives and takes away".
Sunshine apports a healthier sun-kissed colour to the skin, but it is also one of the greatest risks. The dangers that come with it are varied: dark spots; dryness; and, in the most extreme cases, melanoma.
To protect against these risks, Dr. Martin recommends the following basic skin care during the summer:
1. Clean skin
Daily cleaning must be done with gentle, non-irritating and non-perfumed products which do not alter the skin's PH and help to remove the grease and dirt that has accumulated.
In addition, you should use materials that do not harshly scrape or rub your skin. It is important not to share towels with other people. And make sure to dry those hard-to-reach places correctly to avoid fungal infections.
2. Hydration
Moisturising creams and oils allow you to restore moisture loss and are particularly useful if the heat dries out your skin.
They should contain both mild exfoliants and moisturising properties, allowing you to recover full hydration.
3. Proper clothing
Taking care of the epidermis over your whole body involves avoiding wearing clothing or shoes with materials that promote a humid environment that encourages the emergence of fungal infections.
Clothes should be a comfortable material that are unlikely to cause cuts or skin allergies.
4. Prevent infections
If there is a small accident which results in a scrape, a skin wound or a burn, wash the area immediately with water to prevent infections. In case of pimples or blisters, do not touch or squeeze them.
5. A balanced diet
The consumption of meat should be limited and the consumption of fruits and vegetables, foods rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E prioritized.
These vitamins are the most important for skincare, as they prevent cell degeneration, aid the regenerative process in the case of scars and acne, and contribute to the increase in blood flow to the skin.
You can find them in oils, nuts, fish, shrimp and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, asparagus, tomatoes or carrots. And, of course, drink plenty of water.
6. A good night's sleep
The cells produce and recover their strength when you sleep, helping to keep your skin in good condition.
7. Solar protection
A higher sun protection factor (spf) is recommended to protect our skin from the ultraviolet rays every year. This must be chosen according to the type of skin. In general, it is recommended that you use one with at least SPF 15.
In addition, they must be applied 30 to 45 minutes prior to sun exposure, since they are washed away by sweat and water.
8. Exposure to the sun
Exposure to the sun in the middle of the day should be minimized.
9. And what about chlorine?
After exposure to the sun or to the chlorinated water of a swimming pool, take a shower to hydrate the skin. You can use a normal PH or slightly acidic soap, which helps to prevent any dermatological infections.
10. Antioxidants
Due to exposure to the sun and the damage caused by salt and chlorine, a daily recovery process of the dermis is necessary, which we can achieve with products that contain antioxidants.