3 things to know about how this summer can affect your skin
(BPT) - You're probably ready to get outside and soak up some sun this summer. Like most things in life, though, the sun can be both rejuvenating and harmful. One primary example is when you get a sunburn, and according to a Department of Health and Human Services report, more than one out of every three Americans report getting sunburned every year.
Don’t let the fear of getting burned stop you from enjoying the outdoors this summer. You can reduce the effects of sunburn by treating it immediately, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
How summertime outdoor fun can affect your skin
The sun can bring out the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to your skin. Here's a look at what can happen:
High altitudes can lead to higher UV exposure
Being active can be good for your skin. So what better way to work up a good sweat than a scenic hike in the woods? Hiking increases the circulation in your body and can help make your skin glow, keeping your skin from becoming dry.
However, even if you're shaded by trees, hiking can still lead to a sunburn, especially if terrain varies. That's because UV exposure tends to increase at high altitudes. For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, your UV exposure risk can increase by about 4%.
Getting burned on the trail can be painful, especially if you have to trek back to your car or tent. Fortunately, SunBurnt Plus After Sun Lotion combines pure aloe vera with calendula and 45 Lidocaine, for relief from pain and itching. Make sure to add one to your backpack before heading out on the trail.
Ocean water can regenerate your skin
Swimming in the ocean and playing in the sand are some of the best ways to relax on vacation. Feeling the ocean water on your skin can calm irritation and reduce inflammation. Plus, the salt water can help soak up any excess skin oil, which can create a regenerative effect.
But at the same time, the hot sun and tropical climate can dry out your skin and cause sunburns. Ignoring your sunburn is easy when you're at the beach having fun, especially if you’re apprehensive about using chemical-based sun care products.
SunBurnt’s After Sun Gel combines pure aloe vera with nourishing and natural ingredients like calendula, echinacea and catharsis, which can hydrate and soothe your skin minus any stickiness. Combined with SunBurnt After Sun Lotion, you're helping your skin with the best nature has to offer.
"We make our entire family of products with natural ingredients because we believe that while Mother Nature might put us to the test sometimes, she can also heal us with all of the natural resources she provides," says John Romanow, director of marketing at Quest Products, Inc. makers of SunBurnt.
A little too much sun can dry out your skin
Sometimes, finding shade on a hot summer day isn't an option, like when you're out on a boat. Unfortunately, this can leave you and your loved ones more exposed to intense UV rays. If it's both sunny and windy, the outer layer of skin can dry and weaken, which can increase your chances of getting a sunburn. And like hiking, that exposure risk can increase if you're at a higher altitude.
If you’re out on the boat in a swimsuit, make sure you cover yourself with sunscreen and then reapply when needed. Sunburn can still happen even if you’re wearing clothes, a hat and sunglasses.
Getting outdoors has its rewards
There is no doubt that nature is good for the soul and doesn’t have to be hard on the skin. Summer is a great time to hang out with friends and find your inner wanderlust. With travel season here, why not enter to win a trip giveaway for some fun in the sun? SunBurnt is giving away an outdoor escape. It includes an $800 gift card to HipCamp which hosts various outdoor adventures across the United States and a $700 gift card for American Airlines. Check out SunBurnt on Facebook @SunBurnt and on Instagram @muchmorethanaloe to learn how to win. Visit www.sunburnt.com for all of the details.