When we’re in “summer mode,” it’s easy to forget about the basics: wear sunscreen, stay in the shade, hydrate. While these are simple reminders, they’re important to the health of you and your skin. Read on for our collection of summertime tips to keep you safe and well when the sun comes out to play.
Achieve the glow.
Long-gone are the days of surrounding yourself with reflectors and bathing yourself in baby oil (thank goodness!)—but that sun-kissed look is still covetable. Fortunately, there are tons of alternatives to the unhealthy tanning techniques of old.
Try sunless tanners (no wrinkles required). Tanning lotions and sprays come in a variety of shades and options. Some you rub in, others you spray on, and ALL are much better for you than tanning beds. However, rather than risking a smudged look or having your lotion rub off on your clothes, we opt for this tanning water, which achieves a full coverage, natural-looking tan. If you’re just looking for a little extra glow on your face, ditch the tanners and go for tinted makeup or brush on a bit of bronzer.
Defend yourself.
Whether for work or play, when you find yourself outdoors this summer, remember to wear sunscreen. Better yet, use a daily moisturizer with sunscreen built in (here’s one of our favorites), so that putting on SPF doesn’t require an extra step in your normal skincare routine. While sun exposure can damage and wrinkle our skin, studies show that “People who use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher daily show 24% less skin aging than those who do not use daily sunscreen.”
Our tip—be sure to reapply every 2 hours or so, especially if you’re wiping your face a lot or you’re swimming. Also, before applying sunscreen, check the expiration date. Most will have a date printed on them, and if you can’t find one, no longer than three years is a good rule to follow. Get even more of your sunscreen questions answered here.
Other skin protection tips include:
- Invest in protective sun clothing. Learn the ins and outs in this article.
- Stay in the shade. Limiting time in direct sunlight will lessen your exposure to UV rays.
- Wear a hat. Fun and fashionable, find your favorite sunhat or ball cap to keep the sun off your face.
- Sunglasses. Consider polarized lenses to reduce glare.
Hydrate and go!
You’d never leave home without your phone, right? Think about your water bottle the same way. Find a reusable bottle you love and keep it full. Especially during the summer months, you want everything to be portable as you pack up for a beach day or hit the road for a weekend camping trip. Wherever your day takes you, don’t forget to bring water!
As we sweat from the heat, our bodies also lose electrolytes, which can be replaced with convenient supplements such as this XS™ CocoWater Hydration Drink Mix in strawberry/watermelon. Yum!
Soak it in!
Summer has a tendency to fly by, so take advantage of every moment! We hope these tips prepare you to get the most out of your outdoor experience. Now that you’re geared up and ready for a full summer of fun in the sun, let your outlook be sunny, too! ☀️
As you’re spending time outside this summer, consider starting a running routine. If you’re already a runner, try challenging yourself by conquering your first sprint, half, or full marathon. Read our training tips, here.
