Summer is a fabulous time of year, but the effects of sun exposure can cause havoc on your skin. Dr. John Ashworth (http://dermatologist.co.uk) is a leading Consultant Dermatologist and has these 10 tips for maintaining well hydrated and fabulous skin over the summer.
1. Drink lots of fluid, ideally two – two and a half litres a day. You’ll have more energy, clearer skin and your hair will be bouncier.
2. Drink throughout the day, even if you aren’t thirsty. If you feel thirsty, it’s an indication that dehydration has already started.
3. Keep a bottle of your favourite drink handy, to help remind you to drink. There is now also a range of useful ‘apps’ for your mobile phone which can track your fluid intake.
4. Water is not the only option: herbal teas, soft drinks, juices, milk etc. will all help maintain and replenish body fluid levels.
5. Fruit and vegetables have a high water content so they also contribute to hydration.
6. Avoid alcohol: its diuretic qualities cause dehydration.
7. If you play sports, you should drink before, during and after activity, as a great deal of fluid is lost through sweat. Remember that sports drinks can help replenish minerals and glucose levels as well as lost fluids.
8. Use moisturising creams on your skin to rehydrate from the outside, too.
9. In summer, avoid exposure to the sun when it is at its highest – between 12 noon and 4 pm – as this is when it is most damaging to the skin.
10. Always use sunscreen with UVA and UVB filters to prevent premature skin ageing and damage from solar radiation.
Dr. Ashworth’s Tip!
Remember to be very observant of your freckles and moles especially those down the back of your body and legs as these are the most at risk of change.
Your Comments