Summer is here! Is your skin ready?
If you are like most people, your skin has been hiding behind long sleeves and pants and needs a little TLC before you bare it. Follow the five tips below, and you’ll have great summer skin in no time!
Step 1: Exfoliate
Did you ever wonder what happens to all of the skins cells that your body sheds? They remain right on top of your skin, making it look dull and dry. In order to get rid of those old cells, you have to exfoliate. Use a facial exfoliator for your face, and a body exfoliator for your body. Exfoliate at least once per week for soft, smooth skin.
Step 2: Use lotion
If you’ve been using a heavier lotion in the winter, now’s the time to switch to a lighter lotion. Try something fast absorbing and make sure you rub it on immediately after getting out of the shower to seal the moisture in.
Step 3: Pay attention to your hands and feet
If you live up north, your hands and feet have been hidden in gloves and boots all winter long, and they are most likely rough and dry. Schedule a manicure/pedicure, and have all of the calluses sloughed off and your nails buffed and polished. A good pedicure will leave both hands and feet smooth and ready for summer!
Step 4: Stock up on the sunscreen
Sun not only makes your skin wrinkly and dry, it increases the likelihood of skin cancer! If you have old sunscreen from last summer, toss it and buy new. Use at least a teaspoon for your face, and a shot glass full for your body. Reapply whenever you get wet or every two hours—whichever comes first.
Step 5: Give us a call and schedule a massage appointment
Yep, that's right...Massage aids your circulatory system which in turn helps to remove toxins from your body – including your skin. Call us at (941) 637-2450.
By: William "Oscar" Gamble, P.T., director of the Rehab & Wellness Center of Charlotte Regional Medical Center
