By Amber Woods
The Algarve summer is officially underway and the sun’s rays are getting hot, hot, hot as the Algarve Surf Club is already getting ready for action. We may see more people venture outdoors once lockdown measures ease, especially as Portugal’s vaccination campaign speeds up.
Before you savor the sunny days and enjoy the fresh air, however, it’s important to pay special attention to your skin to prevent sun damage. Here are a few things you can do to take care of your skin when you’re spending time in the hot sun:
Keep yourself covered up
Ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun can cause a lot of problems for your skin, including wrinkles, freckles, age spots, discolorations, and skin cancer. Covering up with hats and longer clothing can help keep your skin looking fresh and youthful. It will also help to get a good pair of sunglasses, which can protect your eyes against oxidative stress caused by UV rays. Sunglasses that guard against at least 99% of UVA and UVB radiation can help prevent cataracts and macular degeneration in the long run.
Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise
No one enjoys having sunburns or dry, itchy skin. One way to combat this is through proper skin care. After cleansing your face from makeup, dirt, and bacteria at night, you can use a moisturizing lotion or cream for your skin. Use a product with cooling ingredients like hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, or ceramides, then apply on damp skin to lock moisture in.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water and fluids is great for the body, as it flushes out the toxins that can impact your skin’s appearance negatively. Dehydration can make your skin feel dull and aged, so it’s important to drink at least six to eight glasses of water every day. Experts from Byrdie suggest a well-balanced diet can also help you achieve flawless, glowing skin; eating foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are essential for healthy skin cell function. For a refreshing morning routine, why not have a cup of green tea instead of coffee? You’ll get a hydration boost, antioxidants, and caffeine — all in one drink!
Wear your sunscreen
If you’re planning to spend the summer outdoors, alcohol-based hand sanitizer and face masks are not the only essentials you should be packing. Sunscreen will help shield your skin from skin cancer, sunburn, and signs of early skin ageing. Look for a sunscreen product that is water-resistant with an SPF of 30 or higher; it should also offer broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Be sure to apply sunscreen whenever you’re going to stay out in the sun for an extended period of time.
Apply home remedies
When it comes to skincare, you should avoid using products that are too abrasive or harsh on the skin. Gentle products free from alcohol and fragrances are ideal for keeping the skin hydrated. Everyday Health encourages the use of natural remedies over store-bought ones if you want to give your skin additional TLC. Ordinary kitchen ingredients such as olive oil, coconut oil, oatmeal, milk, and aloe vera can effectively nourish dry skin and boost your natural glow.
Article was specially written for www.tomorrowalgarve.com by Amber Woods
