How to Protect Your Skin From the Environment

To me, protecting my skin is about more than just slapping on sunscreen and forgetting about it. It's about finding the best sunscreen, eating healthfully to combat wrinkles and free radicals, and also protecting my skin from things like pollution. One sunscreen product isn't going to cover all those bases.



Don't get me wrong. Sunscreen is a good thing. I put it on my face even in the winter. But, it takes more than just sunscreen to keep wrinkles away. That's why I like to make sure that all my bases are covered. Here is how to make sure your bases are covered too.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Good sunscreen, one for the face, another for the rest of the body (SPF 15 or higher)
• Self-tanner (if you absolutely must have color, this is the best way to get it!)
• A skincare product designed to help guard against pollution
• Green tea and other herbal teas for extra antioxidants
• Antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables (berries and grapes are exceptionally rich in what your skin needs and chocolate in moderation even works!)

1. Shop around for a good sunscreen. You'll need to find a product that is especially designed for your face and another for your body. Since your face is more exposed, you may want to get an SPF that is higher than 15.

2. If you are one of those people who loves to have a "bronze" glow to the skin, consider using a self-tanner. You can even find self-tanners designed specifically for the face. If you're squeamish about applying it yourself, there are plenty of salons that do it for you. Apply bronzer powder to your cheekbones, nose and forehead if you don't want to use self-tanner on your face.

3. Shop around for a product that will help guard against the elements. Wind, dust and pollution are examples of things that can harm your skin. Visit the cosmetic counter in your local department store or visit a drugstore to find the products that you need.

4. Taking care of your skin from the inside is also important. Drink plenty of water and also eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. These things will go a long way in helping your skin to stay youthful and healthy. Some also call green tea "sunscreen in a cup" because of all the antioxidants that are in it.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the fruits and vegetables are organic.
• If you want to protect your skin even further, wear a sun hat.
• For extra protection apply aloe to your skin after it is exposed to the sun.
• If you have a sunburn make sure to see a doctor.
• If you notice anything strange about your skin, also see a doctor.

[kohuether]

on 6/25/2008 Thank you! I didn't even realize it got on the front page. :)

[kohuether]

on 6/25/2008 Thank you! I didn't even realize it got on the front page. :)

[kohuether]

on 6/25/2008 Thank you! I didn't even realize it got on the front page. :)

[MidniteWriter]

on 6/20/2008 Congrats on making the front page! These are excellent ideas. We can all do more to protect ourselves and our bodies from the environment. Your tips will help!