How To Look After Your Skin The Natural Way This Summer.

 In the summer we are generally outdoors a lot more, exposing ourselves to the sun rays which are harmful and damage our skin. Many of us know to stay out of the sun between 11am-3pm, and the three S’s; slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat and slip on a shirt are firmly imbedded in our minds. However it is not only what we are putting on to bodies which is significant in protecting against the suns harmful rays but what we put into it.

Skin cancer is now the most common type of cancer in most nations. Although there is growing awareness of the effects of the sun and people are being smart about protection it seems strange that skin cancer is on the rise. Yet it has been found that the potentially harmful chemicals found in sunscreen formulas may actually be contributing to the development of skin cancers. The chemicals found in sunscreen can increase free radicals within the skin which can damage the DNA in skin cells contributing to the development of cancer.

Therefore it’s always a good idea to try and protect your skin naturally from within to give your body the best chance to combat the effects of harmful sun rays. A healthy skin comes from within so it’s vital to eat the right array of foods. Choose foods from the rainbow of fruit and vegetables so that your getting all the antioxidants you need. Eat the right fats, no fats or low fats will cause your skin to dry out and wrinkle. Drink plenty of water and your body and skin will become hydrated. Essentially sunburn is when the skin dries out and you become dehydrated so avoid alcohol as this will cause dehydration.

Eating foods that are rich in omega-3 like fish such as salmon, cod and halibut provides anti-inflammatory properties that offer protection against UV skin damage. Increasing your intake of vitamins C and E reduces sunburn reactions from UVB. In addition by combining vitamin E with foods rich in carotenoids like carrots, kales and spinach it will enhance your body’s natural sunburn protection mechanisms.

There are also a range of home remedies to protect the skin against the sun and alleviate sunburn:

Natural yoghurt - Apply to burned skin and leave for 10 minutes. It will ease the heat from the skin and make you feel comfortable.

Aloe Vera - Squeeze juice from the plant and apply to the damaged area and leave. It should absorb into the skin and ease any pain.

Tea Bags - If you feel sunburned to your face place cold tea bags on the eyelids and it will relieve pain and swelling.

Apple Cider Vinegar - Another 100% natural treatment which can be applied directly to the sunburned area for quick relief.

Coconut oil - Rich in healthy fatty acids that are soothing and moisturising.

Jojoba oil - This prevents scaling or dry skin.

Vitamin A - Applied topically it will keep skin cells healthy, hydrated and resistant to sunlight.

However prevention is better than the cure. By ensuring you sleep enough and eat the right foods, it will go a long way in naturally protecting your skin this summer.