Summer Skin Care Tips

Stay sun-safe this summer
If you’re heading to the beach this summer, you’ll probably be looking forward to hitting the shops to stock up on 2012′s latest swimsuits, sarongs and kaftans –but do you want to flaunt healthy skin this summer? Then, who is stopping you? it’s worth taking note of these simple beauty tips I try to fulfil that I picked up from a good friend of mine who is the uber health devotee.

1. Firstly, make sure that your skin is soft, supple and ready to be shown off. Start moisturising after you shower at least two weeks before you jet off to the sun. Add exfoliation to your weekly beauty routine to rid yourself of dead skin and reveal a glowing complexion. This will also help your skin to absorb a deep, long-lasting sun kissed look.

2. Make sure you top up on plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Stock up on a few different factors but try not to expose your skin to strong sun with anything less than a factor 20. Also try to take regular breaks from sun exposure and seek out shade during the hottest periods of the day – usually between 12pm and 3pm.

3. Give your skin the moisture and nutrients it needs to recover from time spent in the sun. If your skin is feeling prickly or burnt in any areas, then try applying aloe vera gel to cool and soothe, this usually does the trick. You should also continue your moisturising regime while you’re away, and for a week or two when you return. Not only will this reverse the drying effects of the sun’s rays, but it will also prolong your tan and leave you looking sun-kissed and healthy for as long as possible.

4. Finally, ensure that you’re equipped with the appropriate clothing so that you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin covered. As well as grabbing a sunhat, sunglasses and a t-shirt that covers your shoulders, think about getting a range of ladies swimwear that will allow you to alter your tan lines and cover sensitive areas. You can always pack strapless bikinis to avoid bad suntan marks.

Look at women’s swimwear suits that have a variety of straps, including a more conservative option that can cover more skin to give you a day to rest and recover without having to miss out on the pool. Then the summer's scintillating daylight can finally wrap up its realms of gold for the day.

Tanning can be one of the things some of us Asian women avoid like the plague, but trying to achieve healthy skin instead can have positive effects on your mood and make you look and feel healthier! Happy Beach going ! I'm looking forward to mine just need to pick a destination. ..decisions decisions.

Photography and post-production courtesy of Ana Dias