Sun Protection 101: How to Protect Your Skin from Phoenix’s Hot Climate

Phoenix, Arizona is one of the two sunniest cities in the U.S., having a total of 360 sunny days per year. To survive the area’s hot, dry weather, there are a few diet and skincare tips that you must know to avoid sun damage and burns that may lead to skin cancer. Because not only is Phoenix hot, but the average high temperatures can rise to 109 degrees from May through September, which will likely leave you with dry, dull, and flaky skin.

Foods that Protect Against UV Damage

Watermelons, strawberries, cherries, and tomatoes are more than red-colored fruits and vegetables. They contain compounds that help in preventing the onset of skin cancers, and may assist in stimulating the skin’s ability to repair itself naturally. Blueberries are another superfood that contains flavonoids or plant pigments called anthocyanidins, which helps protect the cells from UV damage.

Eating aside, staying hydrated is also necessary for maintaining a healthy and radiant complexion. Drinking plenty of fluids such as water will flush toxins out of your body and provide a moist, healthy environment for your ears, nose, throat, and skin tissues. Just make sure to drink at least eight cups per day.

If you prefer a drink with more flavor, green tea is an excellent alternative with profound antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking three to five cups of green tea a day can help protect your skin cells against ultraviolet radiation damage, among several other health benefits.

Anti-Sun Damage Survival Kit

To ensure that your skin does not suffer from the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays, here are three skincare products that will help you survive hot, dry climates:

1. Sunscreen

There are several outdoor activities to enjoy in Phoenix. Whether you are out swimming, hiking, golfing, or even dining outdoors, always remember to apply an adequate amount of sunscreen at least 30 minutes before heading out and repeat every two hours. Keep in mind that skin damage occurs fastest between 10 o’clock in the morning until 2 in the afternoon, which is when UV radiation levels are at their peak.

2. Moisturizer

To ensure that your skin remains smooth, soft, and healthy, make sure to use a lightweight hydrating lotion every night before going to bed. You may also use the product after showering (while your skin is still damp) to lock in the moisture. Face and body moisturizers hold water in the outermost layer of skin, while also acting as a temporary barrier against harmful UV rays. Though most moisturizers contain SPF, they should not substitute your sunscreen. Opt for products with ingredients like vitamin C and soy, which are crucial to enhance the skin’s summer glow while helping prevent and treat dry skin. Aloe vera is also a great option that can soothe blistered, sunburned skin with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

 3.  Lip balm

Did you forget that your lips need sun protection and moisture, too? To protect your skin from chapping or drying up, always remember to use a lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher every day, all year long. Also, choose natural balms with ingredients such as coconut butter, extra virgin olive oil, or beeswax — all of which deeply moisturizes and hydrates the lips.

Prevent Skin Cancer Today

Excessive UV radiation from the sun causes approximately 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers and 95% of melanoma. If you do not want to suffer from this life-threatening disease, then it is about time that you take the extra step towards safeguarding your skin.