Can you believe the weather we have been having in Gibraltar recently? Some of these last days in April and early May have been absolutely scorching. Summer weather even! Now whilst it’s not quite summer yet, it really is just around the corner.
Summer Skin Prep
Summer is a season of fun, sun, and relaxation, but it can also be a time when our skin needs extra care and protection. As temperatures rise, it’s important to take steps to prepare your skin for the summer months and to protect it from the harmful effects of the sun. In this post, we’ll explore some tips for preparing your skin for summer and how to look after your skin whilst in the sun.
Exfoliate
After months of hiding your skin under big jumpers and trousers, your skin is most likely in need of some TLC. I know I don’t focus much on my skin during the winter months, rushing to put on my nice fluffy pjs, thick socks and dressing gown after a shower. Not surprisingly, my skin has had more scales than Elliot the dragon!
Moisturise
We all know that moisturising is important all year round even though many of us ignore this when it is cold. But, this is especially important in the summer months. Sun exposure can cause your skin to become dehydrated, leading to dryness and flakiness. Choose a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated without feeling heavy or sticky.
Wear Sunscreen
Protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun is crucial, and sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to do so. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and apply it liberally to all exposed areas of the skin. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.
Protecting our children’s sensitive skin can be such a battle right? We’ve all been there. Lugging everything but the kitchen sink down to the beach and your little ones just wanting to rush off to play in the sea the moment they arrive! Be sure to apply sunscreen before leaving the house. Your skin takes half an hour to absorb sunscreen meaning that by applying sunscreen upon arrival at the beach your little ones are exposed to the harmful effects of the sun for half an hour. Not only this, but, by applying sunscreen at home you avoid one of the first battles you face upon arrival at the beach. Check out these recommendations when deciding on which sunscreen to buy for your kids this year.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy skin, especially during the summer months. When you’re in the sun, your body loses water through sweat, so it’s important to replenish it by drinking water regularly throughout the day. Staying hydrated can also help to keep your skin looking plump and youthful.
Cover Up
Wearing protective clothing is another effective way to protect your skin from the sun. Opt for light, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible, especially during the hottest parts of the day. This is something which we are not very good at in Gibraltar and our beaches are usually packed as from 10am!
We all know that it can be nigh on impossible to keep your little ones away from the pool or seashore so their skin will be continuously exposed to the sun’s damaging rays. Be sure to protect them as their skin is very sensitive. UV tops not only protect them against the UV rays but also stop rashes caused by hours of surfing.
Don’t forget to wear hats and sunglasses too in order to protect your face and eyes from the sun. This type of sun hat is especially good for little ones as they shield their face and neck from the sun and have 50+ UPF. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and is the measure used to measure sunburn protection. Whilst we are all no doubt familiar with SPF which is the measure used to measure sunscreen protection, UPF is the equivalent measure for protection offered by fabrics.
Stay Fabulous
If you are looking for some great summer reads don’t forget to check into our book corner for our top recommendations. You can also join our book club and have your say. We love hearing about what you think about our recommendations and learning about what books you think we will enjoy.
