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How to Prepare and Protect Your Skin for the Sun Naturally

Written by Caroline Lanson

Published on
Updated on
Préparer sa peau au soleil : conseils naturels et protection
Préparer sa peau au soleil : conseils naturels et protection

The arrival of sunny days often means sunshine and the desire to enjoy the warm rays to achieve a tanned and luminous skin. However, before exposing yourself to the sun , it is important to prepare your skin to avoid sunburn, premature aging and to ensure an even and healthy tan. Preparing your skin for the sun naturally involves several essential steps, combining beauty care, a balanced diet and adequate sun protection.

SUMMARY
  1. Why is it essential to prepare your skin before exposure?
  2. Prepare your skin before exposure
  3. And after sun exposure?
  4. Preparing your skin for the sun: The essentials
  5. FAQ

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UV rays (UVA and UVB) can cause dehydration, oxidative stress, sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancers, which is why it is important to prepare your skin before sun exposure.

UVA rays penetrate deeply and accelerate skin aging, while UVB rays cause sunburn and stimulate melanin production.

A sunburn is a skin burn that can lead to redness, blisters, and an increased risk of melanoma and premature aging.

To prepare the skin: hydrate, exfoliate regularly, and strengthen the skin barrier with appropriate skincare before exposure.




Indeed, the sun's UV rays, particularly UVA and UVB, can have significant effects on the skin. These effects range from dehydration and oxidative stress to more serious damage like sunburn and premature aging. By taking appropriate measures, you can not only protect your skin but also promote a harmonious and lasting tan.




Why is it essential to prepare your skin before exposure?


Understanding the effects of UV on skin health


Exposure to UV rays, whether UVA or UVB, has significant implications for your skin's health. UVA rays penetrate deep into the layers of the skin, reaching the dermis and hypodermis, which leads to a loss of elasticity and premature aging. These rays also stimulate melanin production, but the tan obtained is often ephemeral and fades quickly.


UVB rays, on the other hand, are primarily absorbed by the epidermis and cause thickening of this skin layer. Although they stimulate more lasting melanin production, they are also the main cause of sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancers, particularly melanoma.


The signs of a sunburn and its consequences


A sunburn is a skin burn caused by overexposure to UVB rays. Signs include red, painful skin, blisters, and sometimes more serious symptoms like fever and nausea.


These burns are not only painful but also harmful in the long term. They accelerate skin aging and significantly increase the risk of skin cancer. Repeated sunburns are particularly dangerous, as they multiply the risks of developing melanomas and other types of skin cancer.


There are only benefits!


Although the negative effects of UV rays are dominant, moderate and controlled exposure can offer certain benefits. For example, UV rays stimulate the production of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and the proper functioning of the immune system.


Furthermore, in some cases, supervised UV exposure can improve skin conditions like psoriasis or acne. However, these benefits must always be balanced against the risks, and appropriate protection remains essential to limit harmful effects.


Prepare your skin before exposure


Choosing suitable skincare for your skin


To prepare your skin for sun exposure, it is essential to choose skincare products that strengthen its natural barrier and improve its balance. A product like the [MY] Velouté Corps Douceur is particularly suitable for this preparation. Thanks to inulin, a plant-based prebiotic derived from chicory, and oat, this velvet cream supports the balance and health of the skin microbiome, thereby reinforcing the skin's natural shield.


This allows the skin to better retain water and reduce its sensitivity. Furthermore, this product is rich in red algae extract, urucum seed, and aloe vera, which give it revitalizing and antioxidant properties ideal for sensitive skin.


It protects the skin from dehydration and revitalizes it, restoring suppleness and firmness. The broad spectrum of omega 6 and 9 helps to intensely nourish the epidermis, offering a cocoon of comfort for weakened skin.


Its whipped texture and light white tea fragrance make its application a true pleasure.


Hydrate and exfoliate your skin


Hydration is an important step in preparing your skin before sun exposure. Use moisturizing products rich in active ingredients like aloe vera, known for its soothing and moisturizing properties.


Hydration keeps the skin soft and supple, reducing the risk of dehydration due to UV rays. In addition to hydration, exfoliating your skin regularly can help remove dead cells and improve skin texture. This also facilitates the absorption of skincare and sunscreen products, making your skincare routine more effective.


Incorporate beneficial food supplements


Diet plays a major role in preparing your skin for sun exposure. A diet rich in antioxidants, such as tomatoes (rich in lycopene), carrots and apricots (rich in beta-carotene), chickpeas, and seafood (rich in selenium), helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.


Additionally, specific food supplements can be beneficial. Starting a course of food supplements 15 to 30 days before prolonged sun exposure can help strengthen the skin and reduce its sensitivity to UV rays.


These supplements can include antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, which help neutralize the harmful effects of solar rays.


And after sun exposure?


Hydrate and soothe your skin after tanning


After sun exposure, it is important to take care of your skin to rehydrate it, soothe it, and repair the damage caused by UV rays. For this, the [MY] Tan Extender pack is an ideal solution. This pack includes two essential products for your skin's well-being.


[MY] SKIN & HAIR ESSENTIALS is a food supplement based on a patented complex of oils rich in omega 3, 6, 7, and 9, astaxanthin, and vitamin E. These ingredients strengthen skin regeneration, limit inflammation, and enhance the skin's radiance.


You can consume it daily or apply a few drops to your face for an immediate healthy glow effect. [MY] VELOUTÉ CORPS DOUCEUR is an ultra-nourishing body treatment with extracts of red algae, urucum seed, and aloe vera.


This velvet cream soothes, hydrates intensely, and helps the skin regain suppleness and comfort after sun exposure. Its whipped texture and natural white tea fragrance offer a real moment of sensory comfort, allowing your skin to recharge and regenerate.


Exfoliate to remove dead cells and prolong your tan


Exfoliation is an important step after sun exposure because it removes dead cells and maintains healthy, radiant skin. By exfoliating regularly, you help remove residue from sunscreen, salt, and chlorine that can irritate the skin, and you promote better absorption of skincare products.


This also helps to prolong and intensify the tan by keeping the skin soft and supple.


Observe skin changes and consult a professional if necessary


After sun exposure, it is essential to monitor skin changes to detect any signs of damage or problems. If you notice persistent redness, blisters, sunspots, or any other abnormal symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a dermatologist. Skin health professionals can offer personalized advice and appropriate treatments to repair and protect your skin.


Preparing your skin for the sun: The essentials


Preparing and protecting your skin before and after sun exposure is essential for maintaining its health and radiance. It is important to understand the effects of UV rays on the skin and take preventive measures, such as using protective sunscreens, hydrating and soothing the skin, and incorporating beneficial dietary supplements. By choosing suitable skincare, such as the [MY] Velouté Corps Douceur and the [MY] Prolongateur de Bronzage pack, you strengthen the skin barrier and repair damage caused by UV rays.


Do not forget to exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and monitor for skin changes for early intervention in case of problems. By taking these precautions, you ensure a healthy and long-lasting tan while protecting your skin from the risks associated with sun exposure. Do not delay in incorporating these habits into your skincare routine for luminous and healthy skin.


FAQ


Which foods should I include in my diet to strengthen my skin's protection against UV rays?


To protect your skin from UV rays, prioritize foods rich in antioxidants such as lycopene (found in tomatoes and watermelon), carotenoids (spinach, cauliflower), vitamin C (tomatoes, spinach), and vitamin E (polyunsaturated vegetable oils like wheat germ oil). Astaxanthins, found in salmon and shrimp, are also very beneficial.


Additionally, green tea, as well as nuts and seeds, are excellent sources of antioxidants and omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, which help strengthen your skin's health.


How can antioxidants help protect and prepare my skin for sun exposure?


Antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and polyphenols, play a key role in skin protection. They act by neutralizing free radicals generated by UV rays, thereby reducing oxidative stress, preventing cellular damage, and slowing down skin aging.


To optimize this protection, apply a cream containing antioxidants every morning, in addition to an SPF 30+ sunscreen. Combine this with a diet rich in antioxidant fruits and vegetables to strengthen your skin's defenses against the effects of the sun.


What precautions should be taken before starting a course of supplements to prepare the skin for the sun?


Before starting a supplement regimen, it is essential to monitor your vitamin D levels, especially during seasonal changes or if signs of deficiency appear. A varied diet and medical supervision are essential to maintain a balanced intake of vitamins and avoid imbalances.


Consult a healthcare professional to determine the dosages adapted to your needs, especially in cases of severe deficiency. This ensures optimal preparation for your skin while avoiding risks associated with overdosing.


How should one expose oneself to the sun gradually to avoid sunburn and skin reactions?


To avoid sunburn and skin reactions, start with short exposures of 10 to 15 minutes, especially at the beginning of the summer season. Gradually increase the duration of exposure by 5 to 10 minutes per day to allow your skin to adapt.


Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, apply it generously, and reapply every two hours or after every swim. Avoid exposure between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM, and wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for optimal protection.

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