8 rules to stick to this summer to protect your skin

1. Apply Before You Go Outside

Most people know that they should apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF when they are outside but the truth is that you should apply SPF before you are in the sun. SPF does not work immediately and you need to give it at least fifteen minutes for your skin to absorb it for maximum protection. If you wait until you are in the sun to apply sunscreen, you leave it vulnerable to the sun’s harmful UV rays.

2. Use SPF Every Day

SPF isn’t just for days spent in the sun, it should be used every single day rain or shine. An easy way to ensure that you are protecting your skin while practicing good skin care habits is to use a moisturizer formulated with SPF each and every morning after you cleanse your skin. Garnier SkinActive’s Clearly Brighter Brightening & Smoothing Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15 provides sun protection (SPF 15 is the minimum you should be wearing) and is also formulated with multiple antioxidants to protect your skin from free radical damage.

3. Re-Apply Throughout The Day

One of the main reasons that people get sunburns and skin damage due to the sun is because they apply a broad spectrum sunscreen but then forget to re-apply throughout the day. According to American Association of Dermatology[1], “Re-apply sunscreen at least every two hours to remain protected, or immediately after swimming or excessively sweating.”

4. Look For Broad Spectrum Protection

Sunscreens aren’t all created equal and while they can protect your skin, you want to apply broad spectrum protection. “When talking about SPF protection, it is important to look for “Broad Spectrum” SPF protection which means that the product is protecting against both UVA and UVB rays,” says Dr. Angelike Galdi PhD, Chief Scientific Advisor of Garnier SkinActive’s skin care labs. “While UVB rays are more powerful and can lead to sunburn, UVA rays are also associated with early signs of aging, uneven skin tone and are persistent all year long.”

5. Cover Your Neck And Chest

Your face should not be the only priority to protect from the sun’s harmful UV rays, make it a priority to cover your chest and neck as well every single day. You can do this by applying broad spectrum SPF to your neck and chest area, as well as covering yourself with protective clothing, wearing a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from sun exposure.

6. Use An Antioxidant-Formulated Lotion To Manage Previous Damage

Double up on your skin protection efforts by using a moisturizer formulated with SPF and Vitamin C to help improve the appearance of your skin, as well as protect it from environmental factors. An antioxidant formulated lotion with SPF can even help you manage previously sustained sun damage. Garnier SkinActive’s Clearly Brighter Anti-Sun Damage Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 is formulated with an antioxidant complex of Vitamin C and E, and gentle exfoliating lipo-hydroxyl acid (LHA). Its fast absorbing, non-greasy formula helps reduce the look of visible sun-damage, revealing radiant, more even-toned, younger-looking skin. It works double duty protecting your skin from sun damage while diminishing the appearance of previous sun damage.

7. Hydrate Your Skin After A Day In The Sun

Skin can become dehydrated with increased sun exposure. This is because the sun can be drying. Use hydrating moisturizers formulated with ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid to restore hydration to skin. Also remember to drink plenty of water on those hot summer days to keep your body and skin well hydrated.

8. Use The Right Amount Of Sunscreen

Don’t skimp on how much sunscreen you use. Use enough sunscreen to cover your entire face and pay attention to frequently overlooked areas such as the forehead, nose and ears. If your body is exposed to the sun make sure you’re also using enough SPF. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, most adults need at least one ounce of sunscreen, about the amount you can hold in your palm, to fully cover all exposed areas of your body.