There are so many benefits to spending time outdoors. Soaking up the sun elevates vitamin D levels, outdoor time can reduce inflammation, and some studies show that exercising outside can even increase the number of calories you burn.
But, while fun in the sun is great, it can also be harmful to your skin health.
Too much time in the sun can cause…
✅ Sunburn
✅ Dry, flaky skin
✅ Premature aging and wrinkles
✅ Changes in your skin collagen (a.k.a fine lines)
The culprit? UV Rays. Both UVA (which causes aging and wrinkles) and UVB rays (which result in sunburn) break through your skin’s surface and can contribute to long-term damage.
But before you run inside and hide from the sun, I’m here to tell you the 3 things you can do to protect yourself from sun damage.
1. Always apply SPF (I mean always!)
Wear sunscreen every single day. Even if you’re not spending time at the beach or an extended amount of time outside, you should always apply SPF to your face and body.
I always prefer mineral-based sunscreens (even though they're harder to rub in), since they contain fewer dangerous chemicals and are less environmentally damaging.
UV rays are actually harmful all year round, so don’t skip this step come fall or winter. Protective gear like sunglasses and a hat is another great way to protect your skin health.
2. After Sun Care
OK, so you're applying sunscreen before you leave the house and throughout the day...
But what about when you get home?
It's time for your after-care routine! You can preserve your skin by using moisturizers, oils, and masks.
And face masks are one of my favorite after-care skin treatments! A face mask will hydrate your skin, remove excess oils, and help improve the appearance of your pores. Depending on the type of mask you use, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes are absorbed straight into your skin for lasting benefits.
3. Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Even when you’re extra thorough when applying (and reapplying) SPF, sunscreen won’t protect you from oxidative stress. Here’s how it works…
UV rays from sunlight damage your skin cells through oxidative stress and result in skin damage. But antioxidants fight back! They neutralize free-radical damage caused by the sun and can help replenish your skin. Berries, leafy greens, and even walnuts are packed with antioxidants.
Acerola cherries have 32x more vitamin C than oranges...making them my go-to superfood for when it comes to replenishing my skin. (Which is why I made sure we included acerola cherries in our Forever Beautiful Mix.)
It’s no secret that beauty starts from the inside out. Nutrition and lifestyle both contribute to your radiant glow...but always remember to protect yourself.
I hope these tips help you enjoy the sun safely so you can preserve your skin and look your best now, and all year long.
