We all know how harsh the weather can be on your skin, but summer can be especially challenging in a climate like Colorado. Denver is famous for being one of the sunniest cities in the U.S., with an average of 245 sunny or partly sunny days per year. All those UV rays can contribute to significant sun damage, especially if you indulge in all the exciting outdoor activities that are so abundant in our state. Here’s how to nourish and protect your skin in a dry Colorado summer.

Skincare Equals Self-Care

People who live in drier climates like those in the Denver area need to adapt their summer skincare routines to avoid burns and premature aging. The extra sun exposure you’ll get in the warmer months is likely to leave you with dry, dull, and flaky skin on your face, arms, chest, hands, and legs. Here are some tips for lifestyle changes you can make to see a difference.

Protect Yourself With Superfoods

Adding specific foods to your diet can help protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. 

• Blueberries, for example, are a good source of flavonoids called anthocyanidins that protect cells from UV damage.
• Red fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, watermelon, strawberries, and cherries, contain compounds that can protect you from developing skin cancers, and may help boost your skin’s ability to repair and rebuild itself naturally.
• In a dry climate, staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your healthy glow. Water flushes toxins out and keeps tissues moist. Avoid caffeinated beverages and sugary energy drinks, and keep a bottle of water at hand all day long. Other drinks you can try include coconut water, which can help eliminate dry skin and premature wrinkling, and green tea, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent damage from UV radiation.

Assemble Your Dry Summer Skin Survival Kit

What products should you include in your arsenal of summer skincare essentials? Keep reading to find out. 

• Summer moisturizer: Instead of thick creams that sit in an oily layer atop your skin, opt for a lightweight, hydrating lotion that absorbs easily. Some brands contain extra boosts of brightening ingredients like vitamin C and soy to enhance the skin’s summer glow.
• Natural oils: Looking for an all-over natural hydrator? Open your kitchen cupboard. Yes, the extra-virgin olive oil that forms the base of so many of your favorite recipes is also a phenomenal cleanser and moisturizer. Warm a few drops of oil in your hand before smoothing over your face for extra-moisturized skin, or add a small amount to your shampoo to protect against brittle, breakage-prone hair. Coconut oil also supports new skin cell formation and helps prevent burning. Use it alongside your favorite lotion for some extra protection against the sun.
• Moist towelettes: For easy on-the-go skincare, slip a small packet of alcohol-free face towelettes into your pocket or purse. You’ll be able to quickly clean, refresh, and moisturize your face, neck, and hands anywhere you go. 
• Lip balm: Is there anything more uncomfortable than having cracked lips in the summer? Look for a moisturizing balm that also contains SPF, and you will keep your lips smoother and younger-looking.
• Exfoliators: Exfoliation is an essential step in your summer skincare routine. Remove dead skin cells and pollutants from the air by exfoliating your not only your face, but also your hands, body, and feet. Pick a scrub containing natural anti-aging ingredients like vitamin C and E and that is rich in moisturizers.
• Sunscreen: If you are planning to hike, bike, swim, or golf, keep in mind that sun damage occurs fastest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when UV radiation levels are highest. Apply a shot glass worth of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before sun exposure, and repeat every two hours or after toweling or excessive sweating.
• Aloe vera: If you get sunburned despite your best efforts, treat it quickly with skin-soothing aloe vera. Aloe boasts both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, all while supporting skin cell regeneration. 

Love Your Skin All Summer Long

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. Take steps to protect it from the dry heat of a Colorado summer with these helpful tips. For more anti-aging treatments you’ll love, call us at Schmidt Facial Plastic Surgery. Dr. Jeffrey Schmidt is a leading cosmetic surgeon with offices in both Englewood and Steamboat Springs, where he offers cutting-edge treatments.