Skin care is a fundamental aspect of our overall health and well-being, and never more so than when we find ourselves at the beach. In the scorching sun, the skin is exposed to a variety of environmental stresses that can cause damage if not properly managed. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know to protect and enhance your skin while enjoying a day at the beach. We have a visceral love for the sea and the beach. Feeling the sand underfoot, the sound of the waves breaking on the shore, the smell of the salty air - all this fills the soul with joy and serenity. But we must not forget that our skin, the largest organ of the body, can suffer in this environment. We know that the sun can be both a friend and an enemy. On the one hand, it gives us vitamin D, improves mood and helps the skin produce melanin, which protects it and gives it that beautiful golden glow. On the other hand, however, its UV rays can cause serious damage, such as burns, premature aging and, in the most serious cases, skin cancer.

What is the impact of the sea on the skin?

The sea has a significant impact on our skin, and not just because of the sun. Sea salt, for example, is a natural exfoliant that can remove dead skin cells, but it can also dehydrate your skin if you're not careful. Salt water can also alter the pH of your skin, making it drier and more prone to irritation. Also, wind and sand can be abrasive to the skin, causing dryness and roughness. Even long-term exposure to salt water can damage the skin barrier, making the skin more vulnerable to infection and inflammation. Finally, it is important to remember that the sun on the beach can be particularly intense, especially in the central hours of the day. Water and sand reflect UV rays, increasing the amount of radiation your skin is exposed to. Therefore, it is essential to adopt a proper skin care routine when going to the beach.

The skincare routine to follow before going to the beach

Before setting foot on the beach, it is important to prepare your skin properly. Start with a good cleanser to remove dirt, oil and makeup. Next, apply a toner to balance the skin's pH and prepare it for subsequent treatments. Then, apply a nourishing serum . This step is critical because exposure to sun, wind, and salt water can dehydrate your skin. Choose a serum packed with hydrating ingredients like jojoba oil and vitamin E to fight free radicals. Let the serum absorb completely before moving on to the next step. Finally, apply a good sunscreen product. This is the most important step in your beach skincare routine. No matter how beautiful your skin is, if you don't protect it properly from the sun, you risk serious damage to it.

How to take care of your skin while sunbathing

While at the beach, there are a few steps you need to take to take care of your skin. First, remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you're swimming or sweating a lot. Also, try to get some shade in the middle of the day when the sun is at its strongest. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within, and consider bringing along a cooling spray to soothe your skin throughout the day. Also, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from UV rays. Finally, don't forget the lips! These too are exposed to the sun and can easily dry out or burn. Use a lip balm with SPF to keep them hydrated and protected. Find out what your skin type is

Differences between various sunscreen products

There are various types of sunscreen products on the market, and each has its pros and cons.

• Physical sunscreens, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, reflect UV rays, preventing them from being absorbed into the skin. They are generally well tolerated even by sensitive skin, but can leave a white veil on the skin.
• Chemical sunscreens, such as avobenzone and octinoxate, absorb UV rays and turn them into heat, which is then released from the skin. They offer broader protection than physical filters, but can cause irritation in some people.
• Finally, there are hybrid sunscreens, which combine the properties of physical and chemical filters. They offer good protection and are generally well tolerated, but can be more expensive.

The skin care routine to follow after tanning

After a day at the beach, your skin is in need of a little TLC. Start with a cold or lukewarm shower to remove the salt, sand and sunscreen. Avoid water that is too hot, which can further dehydrate your skin. After the shower, apply a toner to restore the skin's pH. Then, use a hydrating serum to reintroduce lost moisture throughout the day. Finally, apply a thick moisturizer orserum in oil to seal in hydration and nourish skin. If you get too much sun and your skin is red or burned, use a cortisone cream to ease the inflammation.

Tips for maintaining your skincare routine at the beach

Maintaining a beach skincare routine may seem like a daunting task, but with a little planning, it's perfectly doable. First of all, make sure you bring all the necessary products with you. A good trick is to make mini-sizes of your favorite products so they don't have to take up too much space in your beach bag. Also, try to stick to your routine as much as possible. Even if you're on vacation, your skin still needs attention. Remember to cleanse, tone, moisturize and protect your skin every day. Finally, try to listen to your skin. If it feels dry, apply extra moisturizer. If it's irritated, use a soothing product. Your skin will tell you what it needs, just listen to it.

Common beach skincare mistakes to avoid

There are some common mistakes people tend to make when it comes to beach skincare.

1. The first is not applying enough sunscreen. Remember, it's better to overdo it than underdo it.
2. Another common mistake is not reapplying sunscreen regularly. Even if your sunscreen says it's water resistant, you should still reapply it every two hours, or more often if you're swimming or sweating.
3. Finally, many people forget to protect the most vulnerable areas, such as the ears, neck and the backs of the feet. Make sure you cover every inch of your skin with sunscreen.

Remember, beach skincare is not only about beauty, but also about health. Protecting your skin from the sun and keeping it hydrated and nourished can help prevent long-term problems like premature aging and skin cancer. So next time you prepare for a day at the beach, remember to follow these tips to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. Happy summer everyone!