With the sun shining brighter and temperatures rising, summer must be here.
As the season settles in, many flock outdoors to enjoy the warm weather
and the time away from work or school. While the beach may beckon or the
pool may be begging for a cannon ball, protecting your skin against the
sun’s harsh UV rays is important—even after you apply sunscreen.
If you don’t maintain health after-sun skincare, you could suffer
skin damage and other issues. Many individuals know how to prepare before
their fun in the sun, but they rarely care for their skin afterwards.
At Garfield Medical Center, we want you to stay safe this summer. That
is why we list some helpful tips on how to care for your skin after some
quality time outdoors.
After-Sun Tips
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Cool down – Whether you were by the beach or out and about in the sun, cooling
off is essential to both your comfort and your skin’s health. An
easy way to do this is to take a cool shower. The cold water helps reduce
your body’s temperature. Not near a show? No worries. You can also
mist your face and body with cool water for the same effect.
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Stay hydrated – Just like your skin, your body needs water too. The sun causes
you to perspire, which can cause dehydration. Make sure to drink plenty
of water. This will keep you comfortable and prevent your skin from drying out.
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Moisturize – After some fun in the sun, it is important that you moisturize
your skin. If you play by the beach or in the pool, you will especially
need some lotion. Salt, sand, and chlorine can all cause your skin to
dry out and crack.
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Protect against burns – For individuals with paler skin, sunscreen may not work against
a sunburn. If you do end up with sunburnt skin, it is important to care
for it properly. Shea butter, aloe vera, and other ingredients help moisturize
the burn, which can minimize irritation and enhance healing.
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Exfoliate – Do you have dry or peeling skin after your time outdoors? Exfoliate
your face and body with a quality scrub. This will remove dead cells and
leave skin feeling new and fresh.
Taking proactive steps to prevent skin damage is the best medicine. We
hope these tips help you unwind after your time in the sun and prevent
unwanted damage to your skin.
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.