The heatwave in Dallas is still ongoing and weather reports indicate that the temperature will likely stay the same for the next few days. While heading down to the beach or pool, taking cold showers, turning on the AC and drinking and eating cold drinks and foods are some of the great ways to cool the body down, these are not enough when it comes to your skin health. This is because the heatwave is very complicated and is harmful to our skin.
Heat waves bring with them intense and dangerous ultraviolet rays which are capable of inflicting damage within our skin. These rays are also known to prolong their stay in our skin when they become free radicals. Additionally, heat waves also bring stronger heat that can cause dehydration, dryness and eventually, the deterioration of our skin’s overall health.
Fortunately, all hope is not lost because there are plenty of ways of protecting our skin from the heat waves, ultraviolet rays and the heat itself. Here are some ways how to help our skin:
FIND SHADE
Although the temperature may be intense and unchangeable, finding shade would be really helpful since it can help cool your body down and escape direct sun exposure. Be sure to look for shade during the peak hours which is at 10AM until 3PM. Additionally, bringing an umbrella is also incredibly helpful since it will serve as your portable shade.
USE SUNSCREEN
Whether you are inside or outside your house, it wouldn’t hurt to use sunscreen daily which can protect your skin from ultraviolet rays—which can actually go through windows. Don’t forget to use sunscreens with a broad spectrum since they are the best ones for ultraviolet rays.
COVER UP
It may seem counterintuitive but covering up while outside is actually a way of cooling your body down. Of course, it is a great way of protecting your skin from sunburn and sun exposure. Wide-brimmed hats and shades are also recommended when going outside.
HYDRATE
With the temperature on the roof, our body and our skin dehydrate faster. But through continuous hydration, we are able to compensate for the moisture and water that are lost because of the heat. This of course also helps with keeping our skin healthy and youthful as it cleanses our skin’s system.
ANTIOXIDANT FOODS
Research tells us that antioxidant foods are great against ultraviolet rays since they take up the role of sunscreens but taken orally. Not just that, eating food that is rich in antioxidants is highly beneficial since it also fights off the ultraviolet rays that have become free radicals in our skin. Additionally, it has the capability of reversing the damage caused by these ultraviolet rays.
CLEANSE
During these high temperature times, pores are more susceptible to opening up and often become enlarged. This is due to the fact that the sebum production is heightened during hot weather and so blackheads and breakouts are more frequent. Additionally, sweat, oil and dirt are also increased! So it would be helpful to cleanse and moisturize your skin daily to eliminate the dirt, oil and sweat.
