7 Ways to Embrace your Natural Beauty While Protecting Your Skin from the Sun

As a facial aesthetics practitioner, I come into contact with many people seeking advice on how to embrace your natural beauty while also protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. With summer in full swing, it's crucial to take extra care of your skin to maintain a youthful and radiant appearance. Here are seven tips to help you do just that:

1. Wear sunscreen daily: It may go without saying, but sunscreen is your best defence against harmful UV rays that can cause premature ageing, sunburn, and even skin cancer. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're spending time outdoors. We highly recommend ALTRUIST, a sunscreen brand initiated by Dr Andrew Birnie, a British Consultant Dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon.

2. Stay hydrated: Hydration is key to maintaining healthy skin, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration can help keep your skin looking plump and radiant, while also flushing out toxins that can dull your complexion.

3. Invest in a wide-brimmed hat: A stylish wide-brimmed hat not only adds a touch of glamour to your summer outfit but also provides extra protection for your face, neck, and shoulders. This is particularly important if you'll be spending prolonged periods in direct sunlight.

4. Use sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from UV rays is just as important as protecting your skin. Invest in a pair of sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection to prevent damage to the delicate skin around your eyes and reduce the risk of cataracts.

5. Avoid peak sun hours: The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to limit your time outdoors during these hours. If you must be outside, seek shade whenever possible and wear protective clothing to shield your skin from direct exposure.

6. Opt for a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can help protect your skin from sun damage and promote overall skin health. Foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts contain vitamins and minerals that support collagen production and repair sun-damaged skin.

7. Schedule regular skin checks: As a facial aesthetics practitioner, I recommend scheduling regular skin checks with a dermatologist to monitor any changes in your skin and detect early signs of skin cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so don't neglect this important step in maintaining your skin health.

By following these tips, you can embrace your natural beauty while also taking proactive steps to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Remember, healthy skin is beautiful skin, so prioritise your skin health this summer and beyond.