Summer Skin Care: The Importance of SPF, Vitamin C, and Protecting Your Skin

Soaking up the sun’s rays in the summertime feels wonderful, but it can seriously damage your skin if you don’t protect it. A good summer skincare routine is especially important during warmer months when you spend more time outside, where the sun’s damaging UV rays can cause damage in as little as 15 minutes. Keep our summer skin care tips in mind this summer to keep your skin healthy and looking its best for years to come. 

Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen! 

Nothing is more important than using a high-SPF sunscreen when venturing outside, even if it’s overcast. UV rays penetrate even on cloudy days, so don’t be tempted to skip using a good sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours, after you’ve been in the water, and after excessive sweating. Sun exposure without sunscreen leads to premature wrinkles, age spots, and a higher risk of skin cancer. At Alabama Surgical Arts, our MedSpa carries a complete line of sunscreens, including EltaMD’s UV Facial Broad Spectrum SPF 35 formula. 

Use Vitamin C Serums 

Vitamin C doesn’t just boost your immune system from the inside. Applied to your skin, it protects against sun damage and helps heal the skin when exposed to stressors like UV light, pollution, and harsh environmental factors. It’s a natural antioxidant that moisturizes and soothes skin, so it’s perfect for skin exposed to sun, wind, and water during the summer. Our MedSpa carries Alastin’s powerful C-Radical Defense Antioxidant Serum. Used daily, it not only minimizes sun damage but also gives you a vibrant glow you’ll love, making your skin look and feel healthier and more radiant. 

Avoid the Sun at Its Highest 

The sun causes the most damage between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm when it’s at its highest in the sky. During this time, try to avoid too much sun or spend your time in the shade and, of course, wear sunscreen. Invest in a few pieces of UV-protective clothes that you can pop on over swimwear when you’re on the beach. Keep in mind that if you’re on the water, the sun’s rays – and the skin damage it causes – are magnified by its reflection off of water. 

Check with Your Pharmacist About Your Medications 

Many medications, including over-the-counter medicines and some antibiotics, make you more sensitive to sunlight. These include antihistamines (often taken for spring and summer allergies), NSAIDS like Ibuprofen and tetracycline, antidepressants, and others. If you take any medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist if they increase your sun sensitivity and plan accordingly. 

Wear a Hat and Shades 

A wide-brimmed hat shields your face and neck from the sun. If you wear a baseball cap, don’t forget to put sunscreen on the back of your neck. Sunglasses not only protect your eyes from UV damage, but they also reduce squinting, which contributes to crow’s feet and fine lines. Pack a crushable hat and sunglasses in your tote any time you visit the beach or go hiking to protect both your vision and your skin. 

Skip the Tanning Beds 

Tanning beds expose you to UVA and UVB light, which contribute to skin damage and dramatically increase your risk of developing melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It’s crucial to understand that a quick tan is not worth the potential long-term damage to your skin. If you need a summer glow, visit our MedSpa for a safe, professional Spray Tan. You get that natural, sun-kissed look without damaging your skin. As a bonus, your skin will feel supple and moisturized after application.  

For more information on our summer skincare solutions, call Alabama Surgical Arts Office Phone Number 334-271-2002 to schedule a consultation with one of our skincare professionals. And have a beautiful, safe summer!