Summer Skin Care: Protecting Your Skin During Holiday Adventures

Summer Skin Care: Protecting Your Skin During Holiday Adventures

As summer heats up and we spend more time outdoors enjoying holiday festivities, protecting your skin is more important than ever. Australia's sun-soaked climate brings joy and adventure but also significant risks for skin health. By adopting smart skincare habits, you can enjoy your summer adventures while safeguarding your skin against damage and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

The Importance of Sun Safety

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. According to the Cancer Council, two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. Melanoma, one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer, is particularly prevalent, making sun protection a crucial part of your summer routine.

The Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, and Slide Method

The well known Slip, Slop, Slap campaign has been expanded to include Seek and Slide, giving Australians a comprehensive guide to sun safety:

• Slip on protective clothing: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Long sleeved shirts, pants, and wide brimmed hats offer excellent coverage.
• Slop on sunscreen: Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher at least 20 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
• Slap on a hat: A wide brimmed hat protects your face, neck, and ears, these areas are often exposed to the sun and prone to burns.
• Seek shade: Limit direct sun exposure by staying under shade structures, especially during peak UV hours between 10 am and 4 pm.
• Slide on sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays by wearing wraparound sunglasses that meet Australian standards.

Hydrate and Nourish Your Skin

The summer sun and heat can dehydrate your body and skin, making hydration essential:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from within. Aim for at least 2 to 3 litres daily, more if you're active or outdoors.
• Use a moisturiser to lock in hydration and soothe sun exposed skin. Look for products containing aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin for maximum hydration.
• Eat skin friendly foods like fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants and vitamins, such as berries, oranges, spinach, and carrots.

Know Your Skin

Being proactive about skin health includes knowing your skin and performing regular self checks for any unusual changes. Look out for:

• New moles or spots.
• Changes in size, shape, or colour of existing moles.
• Sores that don’t heal or unusual redness.

If you notice anything unusual, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Early detection can significantly increase the success of treatment for skin cancers like melanoma.

Enjoy the Summer, Safely

Summer is the season for barbecues, beach days, and outdoor adventures, but it’s also the season to be sun smart. Following these steps will help protect your skin so you can fully embrace the holiday fun while reducing your risk of skin damage and skin cancer.

At Muna Osteopathy & Wellness, we’re passionate about helping you maintain your health and wellbeing. If you’d like tailored advice on staying healthy and active this summer, book a consultation with our team. Let us help you heal, move & grow!