Warm weather is just around the corner, which means we must be that much more proactive with wearing sunscreen, to prevent any damage to your skin. Here are some helpful things you can do to prevent sun spots.
Wear Sunscreen
I know this is stating the obvious, but it is the first and important step. Use your sunscreen every day, apply it generously and often. Exposing your skin to the sun will cause sun spots or freckles to appear, if you are serious about preventing that and protecting your skin apply more sunscreen than you think you need.
Do not stop regularly exfoliating your skin
Yes, exfoliating and using acids or retinol can make skin a bit more sensitive, however that does not mean you should stop exfoliating your skin in the summer. One of the keys to managing skin discoloration that can easily appear during the hot summer months is to use be exfoliating regularly. This can be with acids, at-home peels, gentle facial scrubs, dermaplaning etc. You can continue with your regular exfoliating and the use of acids, your skin will only benefit from it, of course be smart about it. Please protect your skin, wear sunscreen and If you know you will be in the sun or at the beach for a few days, it is probably best to avoid exfoliation a day or two before.
Do not forget to use your gentle facial scrub regularly
Due to the popularity of acid exfoliants many people may forget the importance of using a manual scrub. Yes, while acids are great at dissolving dead skin cells, it is a scrub and manual exfoliation that will lift them off.
Eat a diet rich in antioxidants
We are what we eat, of course, an extremely popular saying and also very true. Did you know that certain fruits and vegetables can boost your skin’s defenses against sunburn and DNA damage? German researchers analyzed the results of seven large studies on beta-carotene—a vitamin-rich in carrots, sweet potatoes, kale, and spinach. They found that consuming 24 to 180 milligrams a day for at least 10 weeks can increase internal SPF significantly. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology also did a small study where they had 10 subjects taking 2,000 mg of vitamin C and 1,000 IU of vitamin E each day for eight days. They found they could tolerate 20 percent more UV exposure before getting sunburned. Just eat your fruits and veggies friends!
Stay healthy and glowing!
