The official day of summer hasn’t arrived yet, but living in California, the season begins before Spring even ends! This particular warm season brings in a lot of aggressive environmental stressors that can weaken your skin, hair, and leave long-term effects on your overall health.

A few alarming statistics: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States with current estimates are that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Almost 50 million people are treated for skin cancer annually and sun damage is the number one cause of aging prematurely.

1. Use Sunscreen suitable for your skin type

For blemish prone: Use a sunscreen product that is “non-comedogenic”, meaning it will not clog your pores. This type leaves a dry, almost matte finish that includes ingredients which will absorb excess oil and has antioxidants to advocate healthy skin.

2. Water is your new best friend

Staying hydrated allows you to maintain the moisture balance of your skin and body, and aids in detoxification. Don’t forget to drink 8-10 glasses of water per day, it will prevent your skin from drying and keep it supple.

3. Exfoliation gives you smoother skin

Now is the time to up the amount the number of times you exfoliate on a daily basis. The heat and dust can make blemishes an ongoing problem for those who are acne prone. Exfoliating helps get rid of dead skin cells on the surface and removes the dull, allowing new skin to shine.

4. Clothing with UPF

UPF stands for “ultraviolet protection factor” and specifies how much of the sun’s UV rays are absorbed by the fabric prior to extending to your skin.

The power of fabric being able to block UV rays is based on factors such as fabric type, mass, weave, and dye components. For example: wearing a standard white t-shirt in the pool while we will offer only a UPF value of almost 3, which is close to zero sun protection. If clothing can offer protection up to UPF 50, what a difference that can make! Wearing clothing containing UPF also reduces the amount of sunscreen you are using, so no need to worry about having to apply all over protection.

5. Prevent environmental stressors of summer on your hair using a leave-in conditioner and quick-dry towels

Protecting and strengthening damaged or dry hair

Hair conditioning treatments and masks can help smooth and protect the hair surface before, during and after activities in the sun. Search for surface active ingredients like silicones which provide the perfect slip for detangling, smoothing, and creates a shiny, healthy appearance. Antioxidant natural oils such as coconut and argan and other revitalizing proteins can prevent damage, nurture, and fortify damaged hair to improve the overall health of hair.

6. Sustain a healthy diet

Following a healthy diet can protect your skin from the sun inside and out. Foods that are high in water content such as fruits and vegetables and omega 3 rich foods like salmon can help nurture and protect your skin.