healthy living

It’s here y’all - the summer time is here for us to enjoy whether outside gardening, poolside, by the beach, or just between the parking lot & bingo hall. All of these are times that your skin is exposed to the Sun. All of this is time for you to truly enjoy the time spent with your family and soaking up the sun. You can forget to protect your skin and you’ll need to remember to pay attention to parts of your face & body. While you should always apply sunscreen with broad spectrum protection to your face & areas of your body that will be exposed to the sun (including during the winter) these are the usually overlooked areas that need to have a little extra special attention.

Step #1: Protect Your Nose

Obviously this is the most exposed part of your face. It’s out there and is prone to getting sunburned when compared to other parts of your face. Look for a broad spectrum sunscreen that is specifically for your face. Consider looking for a zinc product to use on your nose specifically.

Step #2: Protect Your Eye Lids

Your eye lids are incredibly delicate and thin. Look for an eye cream with sunscreen and wear sunglasses when you’re outside, even on cloudy days. You’ll be able to find a great sunscreen-infused eye cream at Walgreens, H-E-B, CVS that won’t break the bank.

Ever feel that the more water you drink, the more chapped your lips get? Yeah, we feel you on that one. It’s important to make sure that you continue to get the hydration you need. Your lips are very sensitive to the sun’s harmful rays. Use a lip balm that has sunscreen packed in with the moisturizer. Pick a great one that you can stick in your pocket and take with you to eat out with friends & family.

Step #4: Protect Your Ears

The Sun is a sneaky force. Even with long hair that is long enough to cover your ears. You need to apply sunscreen to tops, sides, bottoms, everywhere in between. You may also want to consider wearing a wide brimmed hat while outside to offer sun protection.

Step #5: Protect Your Neck & Chest

This is where you can truly tell someone’s signs of aging. Fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, sagging skin - just as your face does. Protect it from the damaging rays from the sun with sunscreen and cover up as much as you can.

But remember you can’t just simply put sunscreen on and head out. You have to remember to not miss a spot. Don’t rush this practice - take care of areas that may go uncovered and bring the sunscreen with you on the go. Create shade where you can.