As the weather begins to warm up, we are more inclined to head outside for some fun in the sun. This makes our skin more vulnerable as we spend more time outside and find ourselves clothed in swimsuits, tank tops, shorts, and other clothing that exposes more of our skin. While proper skin protection is important all year, taking a few extra all natural measures this summer can help keep your skin looking and feeling great while warding off cancer and sunburn.

Protection from the Inside

A healthy diet is the cornerstone to healthy, glowing skin. Since sunburn is an inflammation of the skin, eating foods that cause inflammation will increase your risk of getting burned. Avoid foods like grains, sugars, vegetable oils, and processed foods to avoid inflammation. Anti-inflammatory foods include healthy saturated fats, foods rich in omega-3s, leafy green vegetables, and antioxidant-rich foods. You should also supplement your diet with fermented cod liver oil, vitamin D3, vitamin C, coconut oil and astaxanthin.

Natural Sunscreen

Sunscreen may seem like the obvious way to protect yourself from the sun. However, recent studies have shown that many sunscreens on the market include harmful ingredients that may actually increase your risk of skin cancer. It also pretty much blocks the absorption of vitamin D, which we get a healthy dose of when we’re out in the sun. You can make your own sunscreen at home using natural ingredients like coconut oil, beeswax, and zinc oxide. The Wellness Mama offers an easy recipe. She also recommends adding some zinc oxide to your favorite natural lotion if you’re in need of a quick mixture.

Cover Up

The best way to protect your skin is to cover it. Wearing long sleeves or pants will protect your arms and legs.  Of course, this isn’t always easy when the weather is unbearably hot or you’re spending a day at the beach or on the lake. A ball cap, visor or big floppy hat will help protect your head, face and shoulders. If you’re on the beach, sit under an umbrella or EZ-Up tent.  Be sure to wear sunglasses (your eyes can get sunburned) and to cover your lips with a natural lip balm that includes SPF.

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