Seven Tips for Protecting Your Skin and Face this Summer
Summer is here! The importance of skin care and sun protection is no secret, but it is especially important for those who have undergone facial cosmetic surgery. Ultraviolet rays can cause skin damage in just 15 minutes. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to serious skin conditions, including skin cancer. In this informative blog post, Orange, CA, plastic surgeon William C. Cohen offers seven tips on how to protect your skin and face for summer.
#1: Apply Sunscreen Liberally
The higher the SPF, the greater the protection. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, patients should use at lease SPF 30. Re-apply every two hours, especially if you have been in the water or perspiring. It is important to use sunscreen every day, even when the sun is not out. UV rays are still harmful, even on cloudy days.
#2: Be Attentive to Easily Forgotten Areas
Most individuals remember to apply sunscreen to the face, arms, chest, and back. But do not forgot to protect easily missed spots. Areas such as feet, hands, neck, ears, and scalp can burn easily, and they are often ignored.
We also encourage patients to use sunscreen on their eyelids and lips. Shop for sensitive-formula products that are specifically designed for these areas.
#3: Choose Sunglasses with UVA and UVB Protection
It is important to protect the eyes and the sensitive skin around them. There are plenty of sunglasses on the market. Be sure you choose a pair with 100 percent UV protection, including UVA and UVB. You do not have to break the bank for a pair of these shades. There are plenty of affordable options that offer this feature.
#4: Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat
One of the most essential pieces of summer gear is a wide-brimmed hat. Making this part of your attire will shield your face, eyes, ears, and neck from the sun’s harmful rays. If you choose a baseball hat, be sure to apply sunscreen liberally to your ears and neck.
#5: Stay Indoors during Peak Sun Hours
UV rays are the most harmful between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. If you are outside during this time, the risk of sunburn and sun damage increases exponentially. If you must be outdoors during peak hours, sit in the shade when possible and wear protective clothing and sunglasses.
#6: Avoid Tanning Beds
Indoor tanning is incredibly harmful for your skin. Tanning beds emit both UVA and UVB rays, which exponentially increase the risk for skin cancer, including melanoma. Tanning booths also increase the likelihood that you will develop serious eye problems, such as cataracts and ocular melanoma.
#7: Stay Hydrated
Water does wonders for the skin year-round. However, staying hydrated during the summer months is crucial. In fact, drinking enough water helps reduce the risk of several skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. We also recommend eating a healthy diet and avoiding tobacco products, which can impede natural collagen production.
Contact Our Practice for More Information
Before you hit the pool or beach this summer, be sure you are giving your skin proper protection from the sun’s harmful rays. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment at our Orange practice, contact us online or give us a call at (714) 628-1313.
