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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.