Keep your skin from getting scorched this summer

 

Summer is almost here, and skin care experts have been popping up in news sources everywhere to offer their tips on how to keep skin safe in the sunny months. While you're hopefully already using an African American skin care product with SPF, there is still more that you can do to keep your skin looking radiant in the summer.

For example, you should try to avoid direct exposure to the sun during certain times of the day. Everyday Health states that individuals who are concerned about their skin should avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are the strongest. This doesn't mean you can't go outside during these hours, just be sure to wear protective layers, such as a hat

The news source added that it's important to shield your eyes.

"To better protect yourself, choose wraparound-style sunglass frames that cover the delicate skin around the eyes, and be sure to get a pair that block UVA and UVB light,'" according to the information provider.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reminds people that you should check the expiration date on your sunscreen, since it may have expired. The organization also stressed the importance of using skin care products that contain SPF.

 

Stay protected from the sun this summer

 

Spring is here, and summer is fast-approaching, which means that it's time for you to make sure your African American skin care product contains SPF to help protect against skin cancer. The National Cancer Institute states that although melanoma is much less common in African Americans than in whites, when it does appear it is particularly deadly, which is why it's important to protect yourself.

In preparation for summer, Memorial Healthcare System offers some tips on how to stay safe in the sun.

First, you should cover up as much as possible. This includes wearing a hat when possible, one that has at least a two-inch brim.

Next, sunscreen is the key to protecting the skin against UV rays.

"Sunscreen helps protect you against the sun’s harmful UV rays. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30," according to the healthcare provider. 

Finally, you should wear sunglasses and limit direct exposure to the sun in the early afternoon, when the UV rays are the strongest.

When is it time to call the dermatologist?

 

Now that spring is here, it may be a good time to schedule a visit with your dermatologist to make sure that your African American skin is in top shape. Recently, NorthJersey.com spoke to dermatologist David Bonney, who offered his tips on what you can do to make sure that your skin stays in good condition during the upcoming spring and summer months.

First, the doctor said that it's important to moisturize and wear sunscreen every day, regardless of what season it is. This is because skin damage accumulates over time, from exposure to UV rays on a regular basis.

Next, the news source asked the dermatologist how people can tell if a mole on their skin is something they should be concerned about.

"I tell my patients to check for the ABCD's. 'A' is for asymmetry – if it looks very different and isn't round or oval. 'B' is for border irregularity. 'C' is for color. Is it multiple colors? Does it start to get blacker? 'D' is for diameter. Is it growing quickly?" said Bonney, quoted by the news source.

Discovery Health recommends that people visit the dermatologist at least once a year. Depending on the condition of your skin and whether you have a family history of skin cancer, the doctor may suggest you come more often.

 

Get rid of dry skin before summer

 

The days are getting longer and warmer, which means that it's time to update your African American skin care routine for the new season. The cold winter weather and harsh winds may have left your skin feeling dry, itchy or flaky and you don't want to bust out the short-sleeve shirts and mini skirts until your skin is in tip-top shape. Recently, the Rapid City Journal offered some tips for eliminating dry skin.

First, the news source said that while a long, hot shower can feel nice after a long day, it can rob your skin of natural oils, leaving skin dry. Instead, take a lukewarm shower with a moisturizing body wash instead of soap.

Next, the information provider said you should be using lotion at the right time.

"After getting out of the shower, gently pat your body dry. This leaves a few droplets of water on the surface of your skin. Lotions and other moisturizers do not actively hydrate your skin; rather, they prevent moisture from evaporating. For best results, apply a skin balm within a couple minutes of getting out of the shower to lock water droplets next to your skin," according to the news source.

Daily Glow states that the key to eliminating dry skin is to exfoliate often to get rid of dead skin cells by using a body scrub.