|
Image © Camille Leinbach |
With the temperatures warming up here in Michigan, it is almost time to trade our snow boots for sandals! Here are 5 easy ways to get your skin ready for Spring!
1. Exfoliate
Use a skin brush or loofah (available at your local drug store) in the shower to help to shed dead skin cells. You can also use a body scrub, like the
Pink Grapefruit Sugar Body Scrub from Marmalade Hills to smooth and soften dry, flaky skin. This is a Traveling Spa client favorite and is used in our full-body polish service.
2. Hydrate
Be sure you are drinking enough water to support your skin's moisture balance. Aim for 8 glasses a day, more if you are exercising or drinking caffeine or alcohol.
3. Moisturize
Use a moisturizer on your entire body immediately after bathing or showering to lock in the moisture. Pay special attention to trouble spots like knees, feet and hands, which tend to dry out easily. Use a good quality body creme or butter that includes skin-protecting ingredients like shea butter, jojoba and coconut oils. These ingredients will help to keep skin soft, smooth and hydrated.
4. Veg Out
Include as many fruits and vegetables as possible in your daily diet. Fruits and veggies are loaded with tons of antioxidants that help to keep skin healthy. Include them in salads, soups, stir-fries and smoothies (
like this yummy Cherry Kale smoothie!). You can also incorporate a multivitamin and fish (or flax) oil to give skin the nutrients that it needs to stay soft and in balance.
5. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Even though it isn't yet summertime, you still need to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays. It is very easy to accidentally get sunburned in the spring, which is one of the main causes of aging (not to mention skin cancer). Apply a zinc-oxide based sunscreen before going out in the sun - every time. Remember it is easier to prevent sun damage than it is to correct it down the road. The more frequently you use sunscreen now, the better you will look 10 years from now! :)
Happy Spring!!!