It may seem like spring has just begun, but before you know it, summer will be here! For Anchorage residents, that means warmer temperatures as well as more hours of daylight. While everyone is still under orders to stay home as we try to flatten the curve, that doesn’t mean you can’t formulate a plan for protecting your skin from longer days and stronger rays!

The doors at Marie’s Beauty Salon & Supply may be closed temporarily, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t doing our very best to help you take care of your skin. We are constantly updating our blog to ensure that you have all the helpful hair, nail, and skin care tips you need to look your best, even while you’re in quarantine. Keep checking back for more, and when we’re all allowed to leave our homes, be sure to stop by Marie’s to find a variety of beauty products and services! In the meantime, continue reading below for a few tips that will help protect your skin this summer.

Sunblock

When it comes to protecting your skin from harmful rays, sunblock should be your number-one product. That being said, there are a few things you should keep in mind when you use sunblock. First, make sure you find the right kind for your skin. When you go to the store, you may notice an entire wall filled with different sunblock options, and you may be tempted to buy the first one you see. Instead, consider what each option brings to the table. Try to choose a sunblock with at least 30 SPF and make sure it has broad-spectrum capabilities. It’s also a good idea to choose a sunscreen that is water resistant, especially if you are planning to participate in any water activities.

The next thing you need to keep in mind is how you apply your sunblock. Many people think that applying their sunblock as soon as they get outside is good enough. However, sunblock needs time to penetrate into your skin, which is why it is recommended that you put it on 15 to 30 minutes before you go outside. If you plan on being outside for longer than two hours, make sure you have your sunblock with you so that you can reapply and stay protected.

Protect Your Scalp

Believe it or not, but it is possible to get sunburned on your scalp, even if you have long hair. That being said, long hair can offer you some protection, but if you braid your hair or leave your part exposed, you do run the risk of ending your day with a burned scalp. Consider using a sunscreen spray or mist in on any exposed scalp and along your hairline. Creams can be messy and they don’t absorb as well, but spraying or misting your hair can easily give you the protection you need. Finish your look with your favorite sun hat and enjoy the great outdoors!

Consider Spray Tans and Self-Tanner

If you love having a summer glow, but you’re not able to get outside as much as you like, you can always fake it ‘til you make it! While spray tans and self-tanner won’t help protect you against harmful UV and UVB rays, they can give you the look of spending all day in the sun without the damage.

The best way to ensure you get that amazing glow is to exfoliate your body with your favorite scrub. This will eliminate any dead skin that could affect the overall look of your tan. It’s also a good idea to wax or shave while giving your skin plenty of time to heal. On the day you plan to apply the self-tanner or get a spray tan, any lotions, oils, and deodorants should be avoided, as they can affect how the tan will set. Wear loose clothes to avoid any transfer, and avoid showering for at least six hours after the tan is applied. After that, you can enjoy your sun-kissed look!

Spend Some Time Outside!

It’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, but that doesn’t mean that you should avoid them entirely. Going outside and enjoying the sun is a good way to help your body relax, especially after spending so much time inside your house and away from others. That being said, if you plan to go outside for a nice walk or a hike while the stay-at-home orders are in place, make sure you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others.

Once this is over, be sure to head to Marie’s Beauty Salon & Supply in Anchorage to stock up on sunblock and other skincare products, and consider treating yourself to a pedicure to put a little spring back in your step. Be sure to keep checking our blog for even more great tips to keep your hair, skin, and nails looking their best while you’re stuck at home. If you have any questions, fill out our online contact form and we will get back to you as soon as we can!