Before you head out for the fun in the spring sun, it’s time to take inventory of how you should take care of your skin. After all, spring break does not mean a break in your skincare routine. Regardless if you are hitting the beach or the ski slopes, we’ve got you covered on how to care for your skin.
The Beach – SPF, SPF, (Did We Mention SPF?)
Keep slapping on the SPF.
While everyone looks good with some color to their cheeks, you don’t want to overdo it and you can prevent that with regular application of SPF. You will still get that summer glow without overexposure to the UV rays. If you want to prevent long-term damage like fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer, layer on the SPF. The instant gratification of a tan just isn’t worth the long-term effects that will cause chaos on your skin.
Find an SPF that works for your skin type and apply it frequently (about every two hours, especially if you are going in the water). Pro Tip: Make sure it’s waterproof with broad spectrum protection.
Try wearing a hat and/or staying under an umbrella.
UV rays are the most intense between 10 AM and 4 PM. Give your SPF some help by wearing a hat to protect your scalp and face. Another great option is rash guards and sun protection shirts with UV protection built in. This is also a great way to protect your neck, chest, shoulders, and arms. Remember! Your neck and chest are the first places that will show signs of aging, so don’t help it out by speeding up the process. Protect yourself.
Don’t forget to moisturize!!!
The sea and salt air can be great for your skin, but it can also be somewhat drying. We covered the importance of moisturizers in the past. Bonus points if you get a moisturizer with SPF built-in.
Stay hydrated!
Be sure to drink lots of water and stay hydrated, especially if you’re not used to the warm weather. Depending on your metabolic rate, you can lose up to 10 liters of water per day (that’s (5) two-liter bottles of soda for those that need a visual). Make sure you put that water back where it came from and hydrate, even when you don’t feel like drinking. If you feel thirsty, your body is already starting to slip into dehydration.
The Slopes
When it comes to hitting those ski slopes, the same rules for the beach apply but with a few other things you should be looking out for.
First, because of the altitude and reflection from the snow, the UV rays can be more harsh than if you were hitting the waves. For every 1,000 feet above sea level, UV exposure will increase by 8%-10%. What that means for you is that SPF is just as important, if not more so, in the snow.
Second, wind burn is a very real threat while out in colder climates. This painful condition is caused by the altitude, dry air, and speed coming down the slopes, causing a burning feel on your skin. We recommend you put a balm or salve on your lips and cheeks to protect them. Since these areas are susceptible to wind rash, it’s better to prepare and plan ahead with something in your pocket to reapply frequently.
If you follow our advice (and come on, why wouldn’t you right?), you will have healthy skin while enjoying your break from the day to day grind.
Want a Customized Plan for Your Spring Break Skincare?
Our trained clinicians are available to assist you in achieving your skincare goals and recommend the best products for you! They will make sure you spend spring break on the fun and not worry about your skin with the right products and pre-spring break treatments that are right for you.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation to find out if one of our recommended products is right for you!
As the leaves begin to change and the fall social scene beckons, this is the perfect time to kiss that tired, summer skin goodbye!