We all know that exposing our skin to excessive amounts of UV rays can be devastating, not only from an anti-ageing perspective but more seriously, due to the risks of skin cancer. Taking extra care as summer approaches can mean all the difference in how our skin looks and our future health and wellbeing. From her clinic in South Woodford, Dr Anita Dhunna offers a range of non-surgical cosmetic treatments to help her patients look and feel younger and more vibrant, but she is also passionate about offering advice on how they can take care of their skin in the summer months, to safeguard against future skin ageing and more serious skin conditions.
Being careful in the sun is mostly about common sense and mindfulness, but some of us can be a bit lax when it comes to protecting our complexions and almost feel as if we want to get out in the sun as much as possible, especially as the UK is not famed for its all-year-round clement weather. We tend to take a one or two week holiday in warmer climes and not think about how harmful UV rays could be ageing us. The good news is that we can enjoy the sun and benefit from the vitamin D that it emits and not put our health or looks at risk, by taking some very simple precautions.
Tip #1 – Stay out of the sun at ‘peak’ times
We have all heard the saying “mad dogs and English men stay out in the midday sun”. Why do you think most European countries have a ‘siesta’ from around 12 noon to 4pm? The sun is at its most strongest at these times and sitting out and baking in the sun can not only dehydrate us and increase the risk of sun stroke, but the UVA and UVB can cause premature skin ageing, pigmentation and skin burning – all of which can be permanently damaging for the skin. Therefore, if you are on a summer holiday or even enjoying a sunny weekend here in the UK, try and cover up using light clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Better still, take yourself indoors or at least in to the shade at these times. Your skin will love you for it.
Tip #2 – Hydrate!
The benefits of drinking plenty of water are endless, especially when it comes to our skin. In the heat of the summer months, we need to drink more water as our bodies emit more H2O as we sweat to maintain our body temperature. This means that our skin can become dehydrated. Try and drink at least 2 litres of fluid per day. This can be in the form of water, juice (however, watch the sugar content in juices and smoothies), decaf tea and coffee or herbal teas. It all goes towards your 2 litres! There are now measured flasks you can buy which will ‘remind’ you of when to take a few sips and this can really help keep you on track, when it comes to hydrating your body and your skin.
Tip #3 – wear a high-factor SPF and re-apply every 2 hours
A good quality SPF is vital when it comes to protecting our skin from UV rays. Even in the shade, our skin will succumb to the effects of UVA (ageing UV rays), in fact wherever we can see daylight, our skin will be exposed to these rays. Dr Anita Dhunna advises an SPF all year round for skin protection, but in the summer, it’s vital to keep re-applying every 2 hours or so, to maintain efficacy of the product. Opt for an SPF of at least 30 and make sure that the product offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays and offers a star rating of at least 4.
Tip #4 – Consult with a professional for optimum skin health and a youthful appearance
Dr Anita Dhunna is one of the leading skin experts in the UK and not only offers advice for keeping your skin healthy every day, but can also provide non-surgical treatments to smooth, hydrate and re-surface the skin. Procedures such as Botox® injections, dermal fillers, skin boosters, skin re-modellers, dermal peels and PDO threads can all help to maintain a naturally youthful appearance. In a no obligation consultation and skin analysis, Dr Anita Dhunna will create and suggest a treatment plan, entirely unique to your needs and requirements. From temporarily smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, to full non-surgical face lifting, the innovative treatments in Dr Anita Dhunna’s armoury, can leave you looking and feeling your very best, all-year-round.
Tip #5 – be mindful
No one is going to be able to look after your skin 24/7 but you. Being mindful about the weather, planning ahead and making sure you have both physical and chemical sun protection during the summer months can make all the difference to your appearance and skin health. Remember, the damage you do to your skin by exposing it to UV rays might not show now, but in years to come, in the form of deeper-set, static wrinkles, skin sagging and hyperpigmentation (sun spots). Invest in taking care of your skin now, and it will pay dividends in later years.
If you would like to know more about how to take care of your skin during the summer months or would like to discuss your skin concerns with Dr Anita Dhunna, simply call our team to make an appointment for a no obligation consultation and skin analysis at our South Woodford clinic.
