Looking after your skin during the summer months is essential since higher temperatures and stronger UV rays can result in sun damage and sunburn. Sun damage can cause skin problems such as premature aging and some skin cancers.¹ Unfortunately Australia also has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.¹ Here are a number of ways that can help keep your skin healthy and protected during the summer months.

Hydrate

Keeping hydrated is crucial for our overall health and a key ingredient for healthy and youthful skin.² In summer we are more likely to sweat, which increases our need to stay hydrated. Drinking adequate amounts of water can increase blood flow, help flush out toxins, reduce puffiness and increase skin elasticity which can result in more youthful and healthy looking skin.²

Be sun safe

Australia is known for its blazing hot sun especially during the summer months. With a number of Australians at risk of being diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70, it’s essential we take being sun safe seriously.³ However there are still ways to protect your skin, while also receiving the Vitamin D benefit from being outdoors.

An effective way to protect your skin when you’re outside is to cover up when exposed to strong sun rays and slopping on some water-resistant SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.⁴ Also choose a wide brim hat that will cover the vulnerable areas of your face, and protect your eyes from damage by wearing sunglasses that meet Australian standards.

Beauty products that help your skin

Some makeup and beauty products may potentially damage your skin, while others can help you protect and nourish it. A great way to support your skin is to choose makeup that is non-comedogenic (e.g. non-pore clogging) as this helps your skin to breathe.⁵ Oil free and powdered products may also be good options when temperatures are higher. Lastly, choosing makeup products that include SPF sunscreen can help with premature ageing and sun damage from daily exposure.

Enjoy the sun at its best

Choosing the safest hours to be outside can help you enjoy the outdoors without the fear of the damaging effects of the sun. Protect yourself and your family’s skin with sun-protective clothing, a hat and sunscreen. This will give you the extra cover needed from the sun when you’re outside.

Check your skin

Checking your skin can help you pick up any changes in moles or freckles. Get familiar with what is normal, as this will help you detect any changes. It’s also important to check all of your skin, not just sun exposed areas and report any changes to a doctor as soon as possible.

Blog post written by Complete Corporate Wellness. Visit their website: www.completecorporatewellness.com.au

This blog post provides general information only. It is not intended to provide health or medical advice and is not a substitute for seeking professional advice about your health or medical needs.

References

1. Cancer Council of Australia, “Be Sun Smart”, Cancer Council of Australia, www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/be-sunsmart
2. Minal Khonah, “10 Benefits Of Water For Great Skin + How Much Should You Drink Per Day?”, Skinkraft, www.skinkraft.com/blogs/articles/benefits-of-drinking-water-for-skin
3. Sun Smart, “Skin cancer facts & stats”, Sun Smart, www.sunsmart.com.au/skin-cancer/skin-cancer-facts-stats
4. Cancer Council Australia, “Fact sheet – Sunscreen”, Cancer Council Australia www.wiki.cancer.org.au/policy/fact-sheet-sunscreen
5. Leah Princivalli, “The Dermatologist-Approved Guide to Summer Skin Care”, Allure, www.allure.com/story/summer-skin-care-tips-from-dermatologists