Summer's Back & So Am I!

Hi Everybody,

I know it's been some time since I posted here and I sure have missed you all! But, out of sight has not been out of mind and I've been thinking about you and all kinds of great new ways to help you with your skin care.

Now that the summer heat is in full swing I thought we'd get started talking about what it takes to keep your skin looking beautiful in the oppressive heat! Lets begin by going over some basics for good summer skin care.

1. Hydrate! I can't stress enough how important it is to stay hydrated! If there is ever a time to walk around with a water bottle summer time is it! Drink constantly even when you're not thirsty. If you wait till you're thirsty it's too late and your body is already dehydrated. You really want to avoid this during the summer. Allowing yourself to get dehydrated could actually be dangerous for you. The better hydrated you are will not only improve your overall complexion, but it will help keep you from being overcome by the heat!

2. Sunscreen! There have been some recent changes in the way the FDA regulates the labeling of sunscreen products. The changes are not set to go into effect till next summer but here are some of the guidelines to help you know what to look for:

Broad Spectrum products that protect against both UVB & UVA rays will be labeled broad spectrum.

3. Cancer & wrinkle claims: Sunscreens that have an SPF of 15 or more and are broad spectrum will be allowed to state that they reduce the risk of skin cancer & early skin aging when used according to manufacturer’s directions. Other broad spectrum products with SPF between 2 & 14 cannot say they reduce those things.

4. Water resistance times: Product labels will have to state how long you can expect the SPF factor to last during wear and while swimming or sweating. The time limits are either 40 or 80 minutes. Products are no longer allowed to read "waterproof" or "sweat proof". There will also be a limit to the SPF value. The limit is now 50 SPF. Evidently findings are that there is not much difference or much additional protection after 30 SPF and they believe 50 SPF is a sufficient limit.

Also, don't forget your poor head and cover up or stay under cover when you're going to be out in the sun for a while. Many times we forget the skin on our heads gets sunburned too and is susceptible to skin cancer as well so be sure to shade yourself!

Remember most skin cancers are linked to overexposure in the sun. Not only should you re-apply sun screen regularly you need to remember to limit your exposure to the sun, not only for your complexion, but for the protection of your skin and yourself from the heat. This is especially true for young children and the elderly.

I’m excited to speak with you again and I’m working on some new ideas to share with you! Please comment below and let me know what you’d like me to write about and I’ll be happy to do anything I can to share all that I know.

Till next time!