3 Tips for Natural Summer Skin Care

The summer season is in full swing, and you have likely participated in the numerous summer activities available. Whether you are hitting the beach, heading to an event, or simply going for a walk, it is important to take care of your skin. Your skin is your largest organ and needs to be cared for properly especially in the summer. Sun damage, sweat, and dirt buildup can all make the summer season especially difficult for your skin. In order to keep your skin happy and healthy this summer, use these tips for natural summer skin care. 

1. Use Natural Sunscreen

Sun exposure is one of the best sources of Vitamin D, and just 20 minutes in the sun can help you get a healthy dose. However, sun exposure can also be extremely dangerous for your skin, causing painful burns or even skin diseases. If you plan to spend time outside, it is extremely important that you protect your skin with sunscreen. If you are looking for a natural sunscreen, check the ingredients before you buy to ensure you are choosing a sunscreen that does not include toxins or other harmful ingredients. And don’t forget to apply your sunscreen to your lips, ears, and scalp!

If you do get sunburned, apply aloe vera. Aloe vera contains auxin and gibberellins hormones, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce skin inflammation. Due to its healing properties, aloe vera can also help with chronic skin problems such as eczema. For extra relief, freeze aloe vera in an ice cube tray and apply it to your face or body for a refreshing cooling sensation. 

2. Exfoliate Skin

Exfoliating your skin is important to remove dead skin cells, toxins, and dirt that has accumulated on your skin. In the summer, outdoor activities and sunscreen use mean that this buildup is even more likely to occur. In the summer, exfoliate your skin once per week to ensure you are removing the built-up debris. If you are sunburnt, however, hold off on exfoliating until your skin has had the chance to heal!

To exfoliate use a natural product like a konjak sponge, made from the root of a Japanese plant called the Konnyaku. These sponges gently buff away dead skin, are rich in minerals, and provide natural alkalinity to the skin. Or create your own exfoliating blend using all natural ingredients. Use pantry staples such as oatmeal, lemon, or milk, and blend them with skin friendly natural ingredients. Add sandalwood powder for acne-prone skin, turmeric for mature skin, Multani milli for oily skin, or rosewater to reduce redness. 

3. Stay Hydrated & Eat Healthy

The best way to keep your skin moisturized is to stay hydrated, and hydration is doubly important in the summer when the heat can quickly cause dehydration. Ensure you are drinking plenty of water—for men, the suggested intake is about 3L per day, for women, 2L—to avoid dehydration and keep your skin healthy and glowing. Avoid caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea as these in fact dehydrate your body. Instead, try infusing your water with a fresh flavour: use fruit or berries, citrus, cucumber, ginger, or herbs like mint or basil to give your water a refreshing boost!

It is also important to keep your meals full of vitamin-rich foods such as green vegetables and fruits to ensure you are receiving the vitamins needed to keep your skin as healthy as possible. Many of these foods—especially fruits such as melons—have a high water content and can actually help keep you hydrated as well! Many healthy foods are in season over the summer, which makes it even easier to keep your diet varied and healthy. Perhaps you could even try your hand at growing your own in a garden!

The summer season can be full of fun, but it can quickly turn to discomfort if you do not take care of your skin. Use these tips to help give you and your skin the best summer possible! If you are interested in naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, or would simply like to improve your overall health, contact Dr Cecilia Ho at the AIM Clinic. If you are in the Pickering region, call (905) 492-8688 or email cecilia@ceciliaho.ca today!