Later, Alligator…

During the summertime, even the softest skin can start looking crocodilian. But you can minimize sun damage and keep your skin fresh and healthy by developing a summer skin routine:

1. Keep your hide hidden. Stay out of the sun and put away that baby oil!
2. Cover up. If you must go out in peak sun hours (10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.), you can keep your skin healthy and still make a fashion statement by wearing a hat, sleeves and long pants.
3. Save face. Wear a foundation with SPF protection. The sun’s UVA rays break down the collagen and elastin in your skin, and without protection, it’s a safe bet that your face will grow old before you do.
4. Dive right in. Before jumping into the water, apply a waterproof sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply it every 1 1/2 hours.
5. Old is out. Check the expiration date on your sunscreen to make sure it hasn’t lost its effectiveness.
6. Waterworks. Drink extra water during the summer, when air conditioning, chlorine and salt suck your skin dry.
7. Lotion in motion. Hydrate your skin at least twice a day with lotions or gels. Many oil-free products actually draw water from your surroundings into your skin.
8. Sun bunny alternative. If you don’t feel complete without a tan, try a self-tanning product that will temporarily (and safely) darken your skin.