Healthy Sun-Kissed Skin

As the sun rises higher and the days grow longer, it’s time to revamp your skincare routine for the radiant days of summer ahead. The season’s warmth invites us outdoors, but with it comes increased exposure to UV rays, sweat, and other environmental aggressors that can wreak havoc on our skin. Fear not; with the right summer skincare tips, you can keep your complexion glowing, hydrated, and protected throughout these sun-kissed months.

Drawing from the expertise of award-winning aesthetician Catalina at the Villa Spa, we’ve curated a list of recommendations to ensure your skin stays healthy and vibrant. Here are a few of Catalina’s insights to guide you through summer skin nirvana, from lightweight sunscreens to refreshing facial mists.

Sunscreen Protection: Apply sunscreen every two to three hours during sunny days to prevent skin damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer. If you’re active, reapply every 40 – 80 minutes. Also, invest in a wide-brimmed hat that covers the top of your ears and completely covers the top of your head. 

Choose the Right Sunscreen: Look for a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 that offers broad-spectrum protection. Before applying it to your face, test it on your hand to ensure it feels comfortable and not too heavy. This step is essential as you’ll wear sunscreen throughout the day. Opt for a sunscreen that feels light and not too heavy on the skin. Water-based formulas are a good option, providing coverage without feeling too thick. Some individuals, especially children and men, may prefer lighter textures or no products on their skin. Testing the sunscreen on your hand first can help determine if it’s suitable for you. If it feels light and comfortable, it’s likely a good choice for application. 

Choose Environmentally Friendly: When choosing reef-safe sunscreen, prioritize scrutinizing its active ingredients. While labels like “reef-safe” or “reef-friendly” are common, they lack government regulation and mandatory testing.

Ingredients to avoid:

• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate

Additional harmful ingredients:

• Benzophenone-1
• Benzophenone-8
• OD-PABA
• 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor
• 3-Benzylidene camphor
• Octocrylene

Post-Sun Care: After spending time outdoors, it’s not just a good idea; it’s essential to cleanse your skin. This step removes any dirt, sweat, or pollutants that may have accumulated. A gentle soap or cleanser is recommended to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils. Following cleansing, a toner can help refresh the skin and restore its pH balance while providing additional hydration. 

When moisturizing, select a product with hydrating ingredients like primrose oil, which can replenish moisture levels in the skin. Primrose oil is known for its hydrating properties, making it an excellent choice for post-sun care. Additionally, incorporating a serum containing vitamin C into your skincare routine can help repair any damage caused by the sun. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals and promote collagen production, aiding in the repair of sun-damaged skin.

Makeup and Sun Protection: Even though certain makeup products boast SPF, it’s important to apply sunscreen before applying any makeup. 

You can also find out more on the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Check out the Corral Reef Alliance for more environmentally friendly sunscreen recommendations.