The joys of summer are here!  Protecting your skin with daily use of sunscreen is the easiest and most obvious way to maintain healthy skin and prevent skin cancer.  However, did you know that other factors, inside and out, might affect your skin’s natural radiance as well?  Be good to your skin and you will love what you see.  Here are some great tips to keep your skin glowing this summer, and all year long! Here are a few tips we love on keeping your skin looking it’s best:

Sunscreen

Use daily on your face and exposed areas.  We love Germain Rx Anti-Aging Sunscreen SPF 45.  Germain Rx has four sunscreen products to choose from, so please consult with us to determine the right one for your skin type. What about your make up?  While some make up lines offer facial foundation products that contain sunscreens, most powders and lighter products may not offer enough protection for you.  To be certain, always be sure to wear a true sunscreen underneath your make up.Hitting the beach or pool?  Apply 15-20 minutes before going out into the sun and re-apply every two hours and after swimming or perspiring.

Germain Rx Anti-Aging Sunscreen SPF 45

Nutrition

Enjoy the fruits of summer!   Summer is a great time to enjoy antioxidant rich foods   such as cherries, blueberries, cantaloupes, melons, pineapple, tomatoes, spinach, and other leafy greens, just to name a few.  Along with salmon and other Omega-3 rich fish, Vitamin C rich foods are great additions to a healthy diet, which can be like a mini makeover for your skin. In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found that an increase in Vitamin C rich foods is associated with a less wrinkled appearance and less dryness.  The study concluded that healthy dietary behaviors might provide additional benefits in skin appearance.

Source: Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Aug;88(2):480.

LOVE YOUR SKIN!!

Photo courtesy of Lifestyle Medicine Institute

Hydration

Almost all major systems in your body depend upon water.  Skin included!  Water helps dissolve and carry nutrients, along with oxygen to cells, lessens the burden on the kidneys and liver by helping to flush out waste products, lubricate joints, keep tissues moist and regulate body temperature.  Water helps toxins leave via the skin and allows for perspiration to cool the body.  The end result of a well-functioning body fueled by proper nutrition and water intake is clean, glowing skin!To function properly, the body must replenish its water supply by consuming beverages and foods that contain water.  Water is your best source along with fruits and vegetables.How much water to drink each day depends on many factors, including your health, how active you are and where you live.  We’ve all heard the advice, “Drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.”  That’s about 1.9 liters, which isn’t that different from the Institute of Medicine recommendations.  Although the “8 by 8” rule isn’t supported by hard evidence, it remains popular because it’s easy to remember.  Just keep in mind that the rule should be reframed as: “Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid a day,” because all fluids count toward the daily total.

Source: mayoclinic.com

Moisturize

Time in the pool, the ocean or even showering can dry and dull your skin’s appearance.  Hot water, chlorine, and harsh skin cleansers can strip oils from skin.  Your body continuously needs moisture, especially on these hot days.  If your skin is feeling stressed, use warm water instead of hot, apply a gentle cleanser and moisturize face and body right after shower or bath to trap water in the skin.  For the body, we love Germain Rx Tranquility Body Crème.  Your skin will drink it in, soothing any redness and softening any dry or cracked areas.  For face, please consult with us to find the best product for your skin as well as for other detailed facial care.

Source: American Association of Dermatology

Germain Rx Tranquility Body Crème

https://germaindermatology.com/products

Marguerite Germain