Summer essentials for you

Summer is full of fun and sun. The kids are home from school and you are outside more. Much more. Here are some tips to keeping your skin summerlicious:

1.) Try a self tanner vs. being out in the sun. Less rays {obviously} from the sun = no sunburn or premature aging.

2.) SLATHER on Sunscreen. I have always been bad about this. I always forget or I think that I have great 'sun skin' and can handle it. WRONG! In one less step, try finding foundation that already HAS SPF in it.

More sunscreen smarts to follow include:

• Check the sunscreen’s ingredients list; it should contain agents that block both UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply sunscreen regularly, as it will wear off with prolonged swimming or sweating.
• Even if it’s cloudy, ultraviolet rays can still reach your skin, so wear sunscreen even on sunless days.
• Many makeup and skin care products contain an SPF agent, but don’t be fooled: Look for the SPF number and use extra sunscreen if it’s below 15.

3.) Lip care: find a gloss, chap stick, lipstick that has SPF already in it!

4.) Hair: SPF sprays for your hair as well

5.) Exfoliate. HEAD TO TOE..

6.) Moisturize. Moisturize. Moisturize. Essential during the summer months.

7.) Be kind to your face: Be careful of what you are doing to your skin during the summer (chemical peels, scrubs, etc.). If you are spending time in the sun, these things can increase your sensitivity.

8.) Mineral Makeup. I have been using mineral makeup for several years and I really like it. It is light, yet it adds plenty of coverage. BONUS? Some mineral makeup already has SPF in it! Another bonus? Doesn't sweet off as easily as regular foundation.

9.) FOOD. You already know how important it is to eat right. Would it give you a boost to know that you are what you eat? In losing weight and eating better, I can definitely tell when I am eating good foods vs. bad foods. My skin is more radiant, I feel happier and I lost weight. During the summer eating good foods rich in antioxidants and protein can help keep the skin elastic and help prevent wrinkles.

10.) Water. Water. Water. This one is a no-brainer, but let's review anyway: Water keeps you hydrated..which you need during the hot summer months. Not only that, but if you want better skin...drink up.

As always: I'd like to thank everyday Health for providing the 'meat' of this post.