Keep Your Skin Radiant This Summer

Who doesn't love lounging in the yard, barbecuing, or going for a swim in summer? The trouble is, summer fun is anything but fun for your skin-- damaging ultraviolet rays lead to premature skin aging, smoke is full of pore-clogging particles and pollution, and pool water is packed with skin-dulling chemicals. If you want to have healthy, glowing skin when you see your friends and family this Fourth of July, follow these tips:

Always use sunscreen. SPF isn't just for fair skin! While some sun exposure is important to let your body get enough vitamin D, everyone can benefit from a little protection. Look for waterproof products if you plan on swimming, and be sure to reapply every few hours.

Drink plenty of water. Health experts are always harping on the importance of getting enough water, but it's true-- adequate hydration is the easiest way to help keep your skin soft and dewy-looking.

Use a hydrating scrub. There are plenty of high-end scrubs out there, but you don't need to pay top dollar to DIY this summery skincare treatment:

Red, White & Blue Body Scrub

Photo Source

Supplies:

• Colander
• 10 strawberries
• Handful of raspberries or blackberries
• Handful of blueberries
• ¼ cup jojoba oil or baby oil
• ½ cup brown or cane sugar
• 1 cup fine sea salt
• Blender
• Paring knife
• Cutting board

Directions:

STEP 1: Remove stems from the strawberries.

STEP 2: Wash all berries in the colander.

STEP 3: Puree the berries in a blender with jojoba oil, sugar and salt.

STEP 4: Pour the body scrub into the glass jar and seal with the lid.

This recipe from the Skana Spa experts of the Turning Stone Hotel Upstate NY, combines all natural ingredients (no dyes, fragrances, or preservatives here!), gentle exfoliation from the sugar and salt, an antioxidant and fruit acid boost from the berries, and hydration from the jojoba oil. Strawberries are also great for blemish-prone skin-- they contain salicylic acid that helps unblock pores. This scrub even makes a great hostess gift for a fourth of July barbecue, just put in a pretty jar, tie with a star-spangled ribbon, and it's ready for giving.

Visit their site! [Click Here]

Sources:
"The Benefits of Drinking Water for Your Skin." UW Health. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2013.

"Acne's Sweet Surrender: Strawberries, Honey, & Lemon, OH MY!" Be BlueTiFul. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2013.

Keep up to date on all things Nski Beauty by following me on Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram | Keek!