Hot skin in the summertime

Shelley Elvis, who owns Esthetics by Shelley Elvis in Vacaville, has tips to look your brightest and best this sunny season. “Obviously sun protection is very important,” she advises, “but there are other factors that can maximize your protection.”

Shed that winter skin

We often emerge from cold weather looking uneven and dull. “It’s time to get rid of dead skin and hydrate!” Elvis says. “Surface cells accumulate on our face and body, but good exfoliation will remove the dead cell buildup, leaving your skin smoother and softer.” If you’re going to be in the sun, avoid over-exfoliation and routines that use high amounts of alpha hydroxy acids or Retin-A. “Opt for a gentle body scrub or a hydrating facial, and strengthen your skin with increased hydration and products with Vitamin C.” She recommends fall as the best time to receive a deep exfoliation.

Wax on

Due to skin sensitivity and possible burning, Elvis says, plan bikini, facial and other waxing appointments at least two days prior to fun in the sun to allow your skin recovery time.

Overall glow

Mineral-based makeup for eyes, lips and cheeks and mineral concealers and foundations are all the rage in natural beauty products, and they also offer a modicum of protection. “Mineral makeup deflects light, giving you added protection from the sun,” Elvis explains. Mineral foundation, blushes and bronzers helps to even your skin tone and give you that sun-kissed look while protecting your skin on a daily basis. Sunglasses, eye shadows and under-eye concealers will help with full sun reflection. Don’t forget your lips: mineral lip color and gloss can help prevent skin cancer on your kisser. Check each mineral makeup for SPF rating.

Elvis encounters patients daily who don’t use sunscreen because it feels too greasy, they want a tan or they forget to put it on—and she says it always shows. “I see a lot under the magnifying lamp due to too much sun exposure,” she says. “Every day I see at least one person with hyperpigmentation, premature aging and areas of skin cancer that have been removed. Why not avoid all that in the first place? I always hear people say, ‘I use sun protection when I’m going to be out in the sun for the day.’ In [Northern California] we are out in the sun almost everyday.” That includes driving time, she adds—car windshields don’t filter all of the sun’s damaging UV rays.

Need some definition? Visit our skin care glossary.

Want more information about sunscreen? Read Dr. Serena Mraz' latest tips on sunscreen, or refresh your memory with our story from last year, 'Tis the Season ... for Sun.

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