I love being outside in this great weather, but I worry about the sun damaging my skin. How can I protect myself this season?
Dr. Linda Miles L. Ac., D.O.M. responds:
During the summer months, your skin needs protection from the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun produce harmful free radicals that damage the skin and accelerate the aging process causing lines, wrinkles and discoloration. Antioxidants have the power to fight these free radicals, protecting the skin.
Studies have shown that daily supplementation with vitamins C and E, two common antioxidants, significantly reduces UV-induced skin damage. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and a daily antioxidant supplement can help protect your cells from free radical damage.
Additionally, research shows topical antioxidants help protect skin from sun damage. Using a daily moisturizer rich in antioxidants such as astaxanthin, Pycnogenol ®, green tea, or vitamins C and E gives your face that added protection. To adequately nourish skin and protect against free radical damage, you should consume antioxidants and apply them topically every day.
If you intend to spend a long period of time directly in the sun, periodically apply sunscreen. To fully protect your skin, make sure you choose a sunscreen enriched with antioxidants. Research also shows that antioxidants can complement the use of your sunscreen and, when applied after sun exposure, help skin recover more quickly.
Rich in antioxidants green tea, pomegranate and tropical tamanu oil (an ingredient that was featured on Dr. Oz for its skin renewing benefits), derma e ®‘s Tropical Solutionsâ„¢ Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 is ideal for those ages 18-30 who want to maintain their healthy, youthful appearance.
Remember that sun damage is not always visible instantly and that even tanning is harmful. Sun damage today, tomorrow and next week causes next year’s wrinkles, so protect your skin every day to prevent damage and to keep skin healthy and younger-looking. Drink plenty of fluids, consume a balanced diet with nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables and apply an antioxidant-rich moisturizer morning and night to help protect your skin.
Dr. Linda Miles L. Ac., D.O.M., is Vice President of derma e ® Natural Bodycare. Read beauty q & a with derma e for great tips on natural beauty and skin care.