As the Summer days linger, we need to protect our skin from the harsh Australian sun.

The sun’s rays may give us what we call a “healthy glow”, but what it really happening to our skin?

The increase in melanin produced in our epidermis is what causes a sun tan. Ultraviolet (UV) rays trigger the melanocytes to produce melanin, resulting in an increase in pigmentation in the skin. Our skin responds this way because it’s trying to protect the DNA of the skin cells.

UV can damage elastin fibres. Over time, with reduction of elastin, our skin will sag, stretch and its ability to bounce back will diminish. Vessels may also impacted and become dilated resulting in telangiectasia, redness in the skin.

To give your skin a helping hand this summer, here’s few simple tips:

TIP 1: Avoid direct sun exposure when possible

Try not to spend time directly in the sun between the hours of 10:00am and 3:00pm when UV is potentially at it’s strongest.

Too much UV exposure can damage elastin fibres that can lead to stretched, saggy skin, dilate blood vessels causing skin redness, cause excessive pigmentation and lead to skin cancer. If you really feel you need a tan – fake it.

TIP 2: “SLIP, SLOP, SLAP’ 

Even though the ‘Slip, Slop, Slap’ Sunsmart campaign is over 30 years old, it’s still just as relevant today!

Hats, long sleeves, rash vests, sunglasses are all important for adults and kids when outdoors.

Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen, SPF 50+, preferably zinc based.  Sunscreen is applied after morning serums and moisturiser but before foundation or other make-up.

If you are swimming or exercising, re-apply sunscreen every two hours.

The main skin concern during summer is the stimulation of pigmentation and sun-damage to the skin, so it’s important to wear sunscreen – every day as even if it’s cloudy, UV levels may still be high. Here’s the secret, protecting yourself from the sun’s rays is the key to preventing photo-ageing – pigmentation, sun spots and wrinkles.  And of course, skin cancer.  Suspicious lesions need to be checked immediately.

You do not need a referral to see a GP experienced in skin cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment at Australian Skin Face Body.

TIP 3: Summer skin needs hydration 

Summer is a great time to introduce Vitamin C into your skin care regime as antioxidants fight damage caused by the sun while enhancing the power of your SPF.

Products containing Niacinamide, Vitamin B3, also help to brighten dark spots and freckles. Oil production in the summer can also increase so having an AHA as part of your skin care routine can reduce clogging of the pores.

The key to achieving healthy skin is consistency and using quality products, such as the RATIONALE skin care range,  as directed by your dermal clinician.

Making your water bottle an addition to your handbag is a wise move. Drink plenty of water to help improve the skin’s moisture content and consume alcohol and caffeinated drinks in moderation.  Eat lots of fresh fruit including watermelon, cucumber, pineapples, oranges and mango for radiant skin. Dark green leafy vegetables and blueberries are full of antioxidants too.

Australian Skin Face Body has a range of medical grade treatments to re-hydrate summer skin. Let’s chat.