How to Prep Your Skin for Safe Sun Exposure This Summer

How to Prep Your Skin for Safe Sun Exposure This Summer

Summer is here—and while we all love soaking up the sunshine, it’s important to give your skin the care it needs to stay healthy and glowing all season long. Proper skin prep before sun exposure doesn’t just protect your skin—it enhances your natural radiance and helps you maintain a youthful complexion.

Here are the three key steps to sun-safe, summer-ready skin: SPF, exfoliation, and hydration.

1. SPF: Your Daily Non-Negotiable

Sunscreen is the most essential step in any summer skincare routine. Even on cloudy days, harmful UVA and UVB rays can penetrate the skin, accelerating signs of aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer.

At NatCan, we recommend using only mineral-based sunscreens—specifically those containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These natural ingredients act as physical blockers, sitting on the skin’s surface to reflect UV rays without disrupting your hormones or irritating sensitive skin. We do not recommend chemical-based sunscreens, as they can be harsh and absorb into the body.

Why SPF matters:
• Prevents sunburn and long-term damage
• Reduces the appearance of sunspots, wrinkles, and fine lines
• Protects your skin barrier from inflammation and free radicals

Need help choosing the right sunscreen for your skin? Our team can guide you to the best mineral SPF based on your skin type and lifestyle.

Pro Tip: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.
2. Exfoliation: Create the Perfect Canvas

Exfoliating 1–2 times a week helps remove dead skin cells that can dull your complexion and block product absorption. Prepping your skin with gentle exfoliation allows your SPF and hydrating products to work more effectively.

Why exfoliation helps:
• Brightens skin tone
• Prevents clogged pores and breakouts
• Enhances absorption of moisturizers and sunscreen

NatCan tip: Avoid harsh scrubs and opt for a gentle chemical exfoliant like lactic acid or glycolic acid—especially if you plan to be in the sun the next day. Always follow exfoliation with SPF.

3. Hydration: Protect and Strengthen the Skin Barrier

Sun exposure can dehydrate the skin, leading to dryness, flaking, and irritation. Keeping your skin well-hydrated helps maintain its elasticity and glow while supporting the natural barrier that defends against environmental stressors.

How to stay hydrated:
• Apply a hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid) before moisturizer
• Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that locks in moisture
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day

Want an extra boost? Try our hydrating facials at NatCan to deeply replenish moisture before or after sun exposure.
Final Thoughts

Protecting your skin from the sun doesn’t mean avoiding it—it just means preparing wisely. With the right skin prep, you can enjoy everything summer has to offer without compromising your skin’s health.

For personalized skincare advice, treatments, or product recommendations, book a consultation with one of our skin experts at NatCan today. We’re here to help you feel confident, radiant, and protected—naturally.

 

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