The hot summer months can be hard on your skin.
That’s why we’ve created this list of summer supplies to keep on hand to help your skin stay healthy and to treat various summertime skin conditions.
Sunscreen – “Broad spectrum” sunscreen protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it under your makeup and at least 15 minutes before going outdoors, to allow the chemicals to work at protecting your skin. It’s best to use a sunscreen with an SPF factor of 30 or higher. Use at least 1 ounce and reapply every 2 hours or less, especially during physical or water activities.
Moisturizer – Keep your skin hydrated, especially if pools are part of your summer play. Chlorine is very drying to the skin.
Scrubs – Exfoliating the day of sunless tanning will help get rid of dead skin so your tan goes on even and lasts longer. You’ll need separate scrubs for your face and for your body. Don’t exfoliate more than once a week.
Ibuprofen – Use as an anti-inflammatory against rashes, burns, insect bites and the pain and swelling of sunburns. Follow recommended dosage amounts for children and adults.
Insect repellent – A repellent with DEET can help minimize the risk of mosquito and other insect bites. Repellents formulated for children will contain a lower percentage of DEET than adult formulas.
Topical protection cream – When venturing in areas with possible poisonous or other plants that can cause adverse skin reactions, apply a barrier cream or lotion containing at least 5 percent quaternium-18 bentonite.
Antihistamines – Use to counter minor itching, irritation or rashes from bug bites or plant reactions. Don’t give to a child unless checking with your physician first.
Steroid cream or calamine lotion – Calamine lotion or 1 percent hydrocortisone cream may help relieve itching and redness from bug bites and sunburns. Don’t use on children younger than 2 unless directed by a physician.
