Do you remember the thin red-white ribbon we used to wear as kids from the first days of March until Easter? According to tradition “March” (name of the ribbon) is offering protection against the first intense spring sun rays. If you forgot to wear a “March” this year, don’t worry. There are many natural materials you can use to make your own products in order to relieve and hydrate the skin after exposure to sun.
As days become warmer and your outdoor activities increase do not forget to use sunscreen protection. The action of such products is double. First of all they boost moisture and natural skin oil retention that are otherwise severely diminished by long exposure to sun. Secondly they protect our skin from the UVA and UVB sun radiation. Our bodies have a defense mechanism against ultraviolet radiation, melanin production. Unfortunately due to the atmospheric ozon layer depletion this mechanism in not efficient, especially for fair skin color people or/and persons with skin cancer family history.
Special sunscreen lotions that contain natural oils such as the E vitamin rich avocado oil offer enhanced protection. Vitamin E is extremely effective against premature skin aging caused by long exposure to sun. However no sunscreen can do miracles. The best protection is to avoid long lasting exposure to sun especially the hours of maximum sunlight.
Essential oils that act soothing after sun exposure are lavender and peppermint. Added to aloe vera gel, base lotion or yogurt (3-4 drops in a tablespoon) they produce a refreshing and alleviating blend for red, sunburned skin.
A massage with 2-3 drops of lavender essential oil diluted in one tablespoon of base oil (for example almond oil) enhances skin hydration after sunbathing. In order to avoid peeling and help cell regeneration spray on irritated areas as often as you wish with lavender hydrosol.
One last advice: during spring and summer months avoid using products containing citrus oils, such as orange, lemon, bergamot, lime. They could cause photosensitivity and skin spots.
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