- Use SPF
Protect your skin by using an SPF cream. As much as we love being in the sun, it has been proven that the sun is one of the main factors that accelerates the ageing process. UV rays are harmful to the skin and can cause hyperpigmentation, premature ageing or even skin cancer, known as melanoma. Even on days when the sun is not shining, use a cream with an SPF of at least SPF30, which gives 97% protection, or SPF50, which gives 98% protection against the sun's harmful rays. If you are in the sun all day, it is important to remember to reapply an SPF cream every 2 hours. There are many different creams on the market nowadays that have a pleasant texture, both with tint, which acts as a light BB cream, and without tint. There are also a number of SPF creams formulated for different skin types and conditions. Remember - in summer, SPF is your best friend.
- Absorb enough water
Daily water intake is important for both general wellbeing and health, and for beautiful skin. In summer, our body uses more water and we need to take in enough water to avoid dehydration. It does not have to be 2 litres a day, as the amount of water should be assessed individually. If you have difficulty with water intake, you can add different citrus fruits, mint or berries. It can also be sweetened with Strawberry or Mango Flavour Drops, which will create a pleasant taste without added sugar and calories. Water can also be taken with fruits and vegetables that have a high water content, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon, strawberries and blueberries.
- Moisturise your skin
To prevent your skin from losing moisture externally, use a face cream that contains moisturising ingredients. Choose creams that are water-based or have a gel-like texture - these creams will absorb quickly into the skin and leave a pleasant, light feeling. The main ingredients to look for are hyaluronic acid, urea, lactic acid, glycerol, ceramides and antioxidants. You can also add a hydrating facial spray to your summer skincare routine to refresh your skin. This can be thermal water or a natural vegetable hydrolate.
- Use collagen and vitamin C
As our skin starts to age gradually after the age of 25, it's a good idea to take extra nutrients to help our bodies regenerate and slow down the ageing process. Collagen is one of the most important components of the skin, but over time its synthesis in the body slows down and it gradually breaks down. The sun and sugar are particular enemies of collagen. To maintain sufficient collagen in the body, which is responsible for healthy and strong bones, beautiful and healthy skin, hair and nails, it can be taken as an additional nutrient. This can be collagen of animal or marine (fish) origin. When consuming collagen, it is useful to take extra vitamin C, which promotes collagen synthesis - this can be taken either through fresh fruit and vegetables or as a capsule supplement.
- Takes antioxidants
Summer is the right time to take antioxidants and store up vitamins for winter. So what are antioxidants? Antioxidants are various vitamins, enzymes and minerals that protect the body from the effects of free radicals. In nature, antioxidants are found in many types of fruit, vegetables, seafood, fish, nuts and seeds, herbs and tea. Interestingly, different coloured foods contain different types of antioxidants, so make sure you choose foods of as many different colours as possible. Enjoy the summer and eat everything fresh. On the Latvian summer antioxidant menu you will find seasonal produce such as strawberries, spinach, raspberries, blueberries, blackcurrants, carrots, peppers, tomatoes, garlic, parsley and more. We are lucky with summer because the list is very long.
- Stay in the shade and wear protective clothing
This point is simple - sunglasses, hat, appropriate clothing and shade! Try not to stay in direct sunlight for long periods of time without a special need. This will not only protect you from sunburn, but also from overheating and dehydration.
- Exfoliate
In hot weather, our body sweats more and our pores produce more sebum, which can be seen on the skin of the face. Along with dust, make-up and sunscreen, dirt and a horny layer of horn accumulate on our skin during the day. To help your skin breathe, stay clean and radiant, it is recommended to exfoliate twice a week. This can be done with a mild facial scrub, a mild fruit acid or an enzyme peel. There are now various types of facial cleansers and toners available, containing light concentrations of different fruit acids such as lactic, glycolic, mandelic or enzymes such as papain and bromelain.
- Use lighter make-up
As well as lighter and airier clothing, choose light-textured make-up. Let your skin rest and breathe. Swap your foundation for a light-textured BB cream or SPF cream that has a tint. Bring out your natural beauty and pay attention to the care and health of your skin.
Beautiful skin starts with positive thinking, self-love and self-acceptance. Take care of yourself internally and externally - exercise, eat healthy, drink water and don't forget about SPF. :)
Author: @kristiana.snepste
