This summer, in the midst of your warm-weather activities, take a moment to consider your sun protection strategies. You may be diligent about using sunscreen before a trip to the beach, but if you’re concerned with wrinkles and premature aging, you’ll need a more proactive and preventative approach. From hats, scarves and trendy sunglasses to summer staples like on-the-go sunscreens, here’s how to look and feel healthy and youthful.
The heat is on this summer, and it’s all too easy to become careless about sun protection. But with a little preparation, you’ll be ready to maximize your sun protection no matter how busy you are. In this article, you’ll learn which skincare products are absolute necessities during the summer to protect and age-proof your skin. Plus, find out how to choose fun accessories that also help block out harmful rays. Here are 10 key items to get you started.
Wide-brimmed hat. Whether you’re the casual type who prefers cotton or canvas hats or a budding fashionista more inclined toward sophisticated headwear like wide-brimmed silk hats, covering your head and neck is a must. “The versatile floppy hat is a summer classic,” says The Skin Cancer Foundation. “Its broad brim – usually three or more inches wide all the way around – shades the face, neck, and tops of shoulders.”
Summer scarves. The neck area is often neglected when it comes to sun protection, but it’s just as susceptible as your face is to age spots, wrinkles and dry, sagging skin. Bright, summery scarves are ideal for protecting your neck and décolletage while also adding a pop of color to your ensemble. Choose lightweight rayon or polyester weaves, which won’t leave you feeling overheated.
Stylish sunglasses. Your eyes, as well as the skin around the eye area, are exposed to a lot of UV rays, so make it a priority to wear sunglasses when you’re outside or driving. And don’t skimp when it comes to your sunglasses; look for a quality pair that offers 99 to 100 percent UV protection, which should be displayed on the label. And if you wear contacts or glasses, it’s worth investing in prescription sunglasses.
Spray sunscreen. Have you ever come home from the beach and realized that you missed certain areas of your skin when you put on your sunscreen? Areas like the behind your neck and shoulders or the midsection of your back are sometimes hard to reach – and all too susceptible to burn. A spray sunscreen is a foolproof way to ensure you’re completely covered. La Roche Posay Anthelios 30 Ultra Light Sunscreen Lotion Spray contains sun filters and antioxidants to protect your skin at the cellular level.
Portable sun umbrella. Let’s face it, a lot of summer activities – like the beach and pool – often don’t include much shade. Create a convenient way to cool down and protect your skin by bringing a portable shade structure. A small umbrella or sun shade will make it easier to enjoy your time outside without stressing about burning.
Summer moisturizer. If you commonly forget to put on your sunscreen on those rushed workday mornings, make it a little easier on yourself by choosing a daily moisturizer that’s just right for summer weather. Look for a formula that’s oil-free, matte and lightweight enough to wear daily, but also includes SPF protection – perfect for running errands around town or heading to work. Try Caudalie Vinoperfect Day Perfecting Fluid SPF 15, an oil-free daily lotion that smoothes fine lines and minimizes the look of large pores.
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Beach tote. Get prepared for those impromptu lunch dates or an afternoon with the kids at the park by gathering all the necessities ahead of time, so you don’t get caught unprotected. The best on-the-go sunscreen products are those that won’t end up leaking all over your bag. Try a sunscreen stick like Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Targeted Sun Defense Stick SPF 50, a lightweight formula ideal for areas like lips, nose and ears. Or, for the whole body, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Powerful Sun Protection SPF 30 Towelettes are a mess-free way to take your sunscreen anywhere you go.
SPF eye cream. You probably have a rich, nurturing eye cream for nighttime use, but in hot, sticky weather you’ll want a lighter formula for daytime. A lightweight eye cream with SPF protection will add just the right amount of moisture while preventing crow’s feet and expression lines. Ole Henriksen Total Truth Eye Creme SPF 15 nourishes the eye area with omega 3s, algae and peptides, and helps improve collagen protection.
Mineral makeup. Whether or not you use mineral makeup on a regular basis, it’s an excellent addition to your summertime beauty regimen. A sheer mineral facial powder like Colorescience Pro Sunforgettable Mineral Sun Protection Brush SPF 50 is a great finishing touch to layer over your makeup, and will give your complexion a matte finish while adding a layer of sun protection.
Powerful sunscreen. When you’re spending the day outdoors, don’t rely on your daily moisturizer to offer the sun protection you need. Swimming, sweating and prolonged hours outside require a potent broad-spectrum sunscreen formula. Make sure the product is water-proof, sweat-proof and long lasting to prolong the time between reapplications. SkinCeuticals Sport UV Defense SPF 45 is a transparent zinc oxide formula that won’t irritate sensitive complexions. Just remember that regardless of which sunscreen you choose, you’ll still need to reapply often, especially if you’re on the water. WebMD suggests “every 2 to 3 hours while in the sun and after swimming or sweating a lot.”
When it comes to sun protection, it’s better to be over-prepared than under-prepared, so stock up now on summertime essentials. Make the most of your daily skincare regimen with lightweight SPF lotions, sunscreens and eye creams. Then, reward yourself for being both sun-smart and fashionable with a new hat or scarf that complements your summer wardrobe.
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See also:
Anti-Aging Sun Damage Prevention: 5 Easy Ways to Protect Your Skin
6 Tips for a Beautiful Neck & Dècolletè
Anti-Aging Sun Protection on a Budget: 10 Affordable Sunscreens