Summer: there’s just nothing quite like it. With its endless days of blue skies and bright sunshine, South Africa’s summer months are ideal for enjoying outdoor sports, having picnics with friends and hanging out on the beach or in your garden. But spending so much time in the sun can damage your skin and can lead to rough, blotchy and wrinkled skin later in life. As a teenager, with your skin still bursting with health and vitality, the time to start your super-smart skincare routine is now. Here are some tips to get you on your way.
Sunscreen up
All that nagging you get from your parents about putting sunscreen on? Turns out it’s pretty good advice. Making sunscreen part of your daily routine is one of the most important ways you can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Simply apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more to your face, neck and arms in the morning – even on cloudy days – and you’ll be able to run around between classes knowing that your skin is protected. If you’re going to be spending even more time in the sun after school, keep a little bottle of sunscreen in your bag and make sure to reapply during the course of the day.
Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise
Planning to spend some time outside? Plan your outfit accordingly! Big sunglasses and wide sun hats not only protect you – they can also look fabulously glam. And taking a brightly coloured umbrella to the park or the beach cares for your skin, keeps your snacks and drinks cool, and helps your friends to spot you! Remember that protecting your skin against the sun is especially important if you’re being treated for acne, as some acne creams and medications can make your skin more sensitive and prone to sunburn.
If you get burnt, act fast
If you accidentally get sunburnt, get your hands on some aftersun as quickly as you can. Make sure that it has aloe vera, which infuses your sunburn with juicy, hydrating goodness and helps to ease some of the pain as well.
More moisturiser
Your skin might not feel as dry in the summer months as it does in the winter, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need help staying hydrated, especially if you’re sweating a lot. Moisturise your skin twice a day to up the water content of the outer layer of your skin. If you get sunburnt, keep putting moisturiser on the burnt area even after it starts to fade.
As well as the pointers above, it’s important to remember that a balanced diet, plenty of water and a good night’s sleep all help to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. These habits give your skin the nutrients and vitamins it needs, ensure that it retains its elasticity, and flushes toxins away. Combine all of the advice above and you’ll have skin that’s fresh as a daisy all summer long.
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