Keep Skin Healthy at the Beach

Beach season is just around the corner and everyone is hitting the sand and pool decks to enjoy the warmer weather and beautiful water. Unfortunately, with the sunshine comes sun damage to our bodies.

UVA and UVB rays from the sun are the main cause of premature aging, wrinkling, brown spots and hyperpigmentation, drying of the skin, and—worst of all—skin cancer. Don’t let these hazards stop your fun in the sun – there are preventative measures everyone can take to battle harmful rays.

Where and When to be on the Beach

If you’re planning an outing to the beach, try to get there before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. The hours in-between are when the sun is most intense. Planning an early morning or pre-dinner excursion will not only avoid the crowds, but it will also protect your skin from damage.

Many people don’t realize that sand also reflects UV radiation back toward you. It’s not a foolproof protectant, but plot your spot somewhere shady if possible. Trees and awnings around your destination are great for shade. UV protectant umbrellas, tents, and windscreens are also available in stores and online.

For Your Skin

Your skin displays exactly what measures you have taken to protect and prevent it from becoming damaged. Exfoliates, peels, and other products that contain AHA’s may promote smooth, beautiful skin, but they also leave it hypersensitive to outside elements like the sun. People should stop the use of these products a few days prior to going to the beach so their skin can recover before being exposed.

Saltwater is great for healing blemishes, but the high salt composition also dries out our skin. Before leaving the beach, try to rinse off any salt residue in clean water. Take a shower and moisturize as soon as you get home, too.

Sunscreen 101

More and more we hear about the importance of sunscreen, partially in response to the ozone layer diminishing and the increase in skin cancer diagnoses. It is key to apply sunscreen daily to maintain good-looking skin and prevent premature aging, but sunscreen is an absolute must at the beach.

Sunscreen should be applied 20-30 minutes before stepping foot on the sand, this allows your skin to absorb its agents. It should be reapplied every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Many companies now make water and sweat resistant formulas. Eighty percent of skin cancers occur in areas we forget! Don’t overlook these parts of the body. Apply sunscreen to the nose, tops of ears, hands, hairline, and other non-obvious places.

What to Wear

Showing skin may be the fashionable thing to do, but it won’t help you maintain your looks long term. The sun’s rays can penetrate light-colored, airy clothing. People should wear heavier apparel in dark or bright colors. Some laundry detergent companies are even making UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) formulas that soak into clothes and are UV-repellant.

Hats that cover the scalp and have a brim of 3 inches or more should always be worn while on the beach. Additionally, the eyes should never be forgotten. Buy and wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. You’ll protect your eyes and prevent wrinkles from forming.

Contact Barba Skin Clinic

Miami is known for its beaches and the attractive people they draw. Keep your skin beautiful and always protect it from harmful sun-related damage.

Barba Skin Clinic is Miami’s premier skincare practice. For more information about our services, contact our team today, call: 305-560-6813.