Is Your Skin Ready for Summer?

These tips will help your skin get a healthy glow in time for those upcoming sunny days -- and with results designed to last through Labor Day and beyond. 

Exfoliate to Get Rid of Dry, Dull Skin 
Experts say the best way to get your skin ready for summer is with regular exfoliation. This gets rid of dead, dry skin cells Use a washcloth, loofah or buff puff, Wet your entire body in the bath or shower. Apply exfoliating cleanser to your loofah or washcloth, and scrub, using gentle, circular motions. You should exfoliate no more than once a day or a couple of times a week. Get started before Memorial Day and keep the regimen up throughout summer. Added incentive: exfoliated skin will help self-tanners go on more smoothly, making them less likely to streak and prevent your glow from fading prematurely. 

Moisturize to Hydrate Skin 
After you exfoliate, moisturizing your skin is key. Use it after you exfoliate, shave, and shower. 

Apply Sunscreen 
Use Enough!   The most important thing you can do for your skin is sun protection so you never get a burn. How high a number of sun protection factor (SPF) you need depends on how fair you are. People with fairer skin, lighter hair, and lighter eyes often need stronger sun block than their darker counterparts. Everyone should wear a sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher with a broad-spectrum agent that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously. Put on enough to cover your entire body, no matter how much it takes. Apply it before you reach the beach or outdoors. Sunscreen takes 15 to 20 minutes to kick into high gear, so apply it before you leave the house. Reapply it frequently. Remember that it only lasts for about two hours. 

Shave Away Unwanted Hair 
A good shaving strategy also helps. Shave in the opposite direction from which hair grows. In places where hair grows in different directions and in hard-to-reach areas such as underarms and the bikini area, try pulling the skin slightly, making it more taut and easier to shave. You could also try waxing, Waxing lasts longer than shaving. But remember that when you go to rewax, you have to let hair grow to a minimal length first. 

Treat the Skin on Your Feet 
Don't forget your feet this summer. People often complain of dermatitis, peeling, or callous on their heels. Using a /pumice stone will help to get rid of some of that. Use after a bath or shower when feet are softened up. Make sure that your toenails are cut straight across.

If you follow these tips you should be ready to head into summer looking and feeling your best!