There is so much to love about summer. However, too much fun in the African sun is not always a vibe for your skin. So start making some changes in you skincare regime and it will show.
The wear and tear your face and body experience during the summer can have lasting effects. Now is the time to make little changes to your daily skincare regime, says dermatologist Dr Nomphelo Gantsho.
Taking good care of your skin is important for more than just your appearance. As the your body’s largest organ, your skin is essential to your general health. If you take care of it, it can help take care of you, she adds.
“If you apply products with unhealthy ingredients, it will be absorbed by your skin and cause harm to your health,” Gantsho warns.
She is based in Cape Town and provides comprehensive dermatological care for all ages as well as aesthetic procedures.
Follow the right routine
It is important to have a comprehensive skincare routine throughout the year, Gantsho advises. First the basics: finding a solid cleanser and the moisturiser of your dreams.
You will want to find a cleanser that is gentle on your skin while still removing oil, dirt and makeup, Gantsho says. A good moisturiser serves as a barrier between your skin and the things in your environment that can harm it.
Feed your skin
What you put on your plate is even more important than what you put on your skin. Everything you eat, becomes a part of not only your inner being, but the outer fabric of your body as well, says Gantsho.
The healthier you eat, the better your skin will look.
Gantsho advises that you add these foods to your summer skin diet:
- Selenium rich foods: Selenium is an antioxidant that protects the skin quality and elasticity, which safeguards it from sun damage and ageing, she explains. It is found in Brazil nuts, fish, ham, whole wheat breads and whole grain cereals.
- Tomato: Tomatoes are a great source of the antioxidant lycopene. It helps protect the skin from damage from the sun and the environment (pollution) that can cause dark spots, lines, dryness and rough skin.
- Fruit: Strawberries, watermelon and other fruits are a source of vitamin C, which is required for a healthy collagen production.
- Avoid processed meats: According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) processed meats are as bad for your skin as tobacco and asbestos.
The skin doctor’s top tips for a summer glow:
Lighten the load: Your skin, like your wardrobe, changes with seasons. In the summer you need lighter products. Swop thick, heavy cleansers like oil and thick creams for gentle foam cleansers. “Apply a lightweight moisturiser after cleansing your skin before you apply a sunscreen. This will help protect your skin from harmful pollutants and chemicals and prevents further irritation.”
Sunscreen is your friend: Always put on sunscreen to block harmful rays when you’re out during the day. Use sun protection even during cloudy days. Sunrays can penetrate light clouds, mist and fog. Also make sure it is water resistant, so you don’t sweat it off.
Be on the lookout: Always look out for non-comedogenic makeup formulas that won’t clog your pores and contribute to acne. “Non-comedogenic” refers to a product that is formulated to help reduce potential blockage of visible pores.”
ALSO READ: Don’t be shy – feed that body
