Did you know that the skin is the largest organ in your body?! It has many different functions, like protecting you against bacteria and viruses, and protecting your important tissues and organs.
Skin also regulates your body’s temperature, as well as acting as a sensory organ, detecting pressure, cold, heat, touch and pain too. We only get one skin, so it’s important to look after your skin from an early age, to keep it looking its best as we age, but also, so it works effectively too.
Everyone knows they should wear sun protection during the summer, but you need to wear sun protection every single day, and not just during the summer. The sun has damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation rays all year round, and whilst they are the most intense during the summer months, when there’s a greater UV index, sun damage can happen regardless of the season.
It’s not just the sun that can damage or harm the skin either. The sun is known to be the leading cause of skin cancer and is the leading cause of premature ageing. However, pollution, cigarette smoke and air pollution can also damage the skin, and have irreversible effects.
As well as thinking about sunscreen and sun protection, it’s also important to keep the skin hydrated all year round too, as the skin can become dry, irritated and uncomfortable. Excessive dryness can lead to skin conditions like as dermatitis, eczema, or psoriasis, so looking after the skin is very important.
What Is The Importance Of Protecting Your Skin in The Summer?
Protecting your skin is of utmost importance in summer. The sun is the biggest cause of premature ageing, and the sun’s harmful rays can lead to skin cancer, wrinkles, age spots and discolouration. The sun’s UV rays can penetrate the outer layers of skin and damage the DNA. This can cause an increase in wrinkles and age spots. These cells will then produce less collagen, which makes skin appear thinner, dryer and more prone to sagging.
How Can I Protect My Skin This Summer?
Throughout the summer, it’s essential you apply a high SPF sunscreen, even on days you won’t be outside for long periods of time. Always reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming, or sports, to ensure your skin is fully protected. Where possible, use a hat or head covering to protect your face and scalp from the harmful UV rays.
You can opt for lightweight materials like cotton, to keep you cool and fresh in the summer, as well as protecting your bare skin from excessive sun exposure. In addition to wearing sunscreen, and protective clothing, ensure you drink more than you would in the summer, to make up for the amount of fluid lost due to sweating, to ensure your body, and skin are as hydrated as possible.
The summer is always a fun time of year, filled with sun, fun and socialising. However, it can also be the time of year when people neglect their skin and get into some serious trouble. So, the best thing to do is to take preventative measures that will keep your skin protected.