Dallas Health Expert offers tips for a safe and happy summer.

Dallas Health Expert offers tips for a safe and happy summer. There are precautions that one can take to avoid discomfort and damage during the hot, sunny days ahead. Some of the ways to ensure healthy skin from the inside out include simple practices anyone can do.

Be aware that the sun’s ultra violet rays are the strongest during the mid day hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Try to schedule your outdoor activities before or after this timeframe.  Even on an overcast day, 80% the sun’s UV rays can still penetrate the clouds.  You can still get burned.

Cover as much of your body as possible with protective clothing.  Wear a wide brimmed hat to cover your hair and head.  The more protection you have the better off your skin will be.

Sunglasses help deflect the sun’s UV rays from sand, water, and other surfaces. Always wear sungalsses.  They help to lower your risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. And you won’t have to squint, which can bring on more wrinkling of the skin.

Many people seem to think of sunscreen only when going to the pool or beach. Not a good plan.  Any activity in the great outdoors can be a source of sunburn and skin damage.  Some of the sunbelt states like Oklahoma have a lower incidence of skin cancers because of advertising campaigns encouraging the use of sunscreens.  Slather on a liberal amount of sunscreen evenly on all exposed areas of the skin—and remember your lips, nose, ears, neck, hands, feet, and head (if necessary). Apply your sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going out into the sun and think to re-apply every two hours, especially after swimming or exercising.Â

Make sure you get plenty of antioxidants.  What’s the big deal? Environmental assaults such as sunlight, pollution, stress, and even normal metabolism produce free radicals in our bodies, that can damage cells, alter DNA, and cause skin to age prematurely. Phytonutrients such as carotenoids and flavonoids—antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, and plants—combat these free radicals and protect your body against cellular damage. So be sure to include lots of antioxidants in your diet. Your skin—and your overall health—will thank you.   Â

Dallas Health Helpers has been in the health and wellness industry for 26 years.  We are located in Uptown Dallas, but our efforts reach nationwide audiences.

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