Labor Day is around the corner, believe it or not! It is considered to be the “last hurrah” of the summer, with many of us heading out anywhere to enjoy the last of the summer sun. So wherever you may venture out, whether it be the backyard, the beach or the lake, have fun but remember to protect your skin.

And if you should find yourself in need of a rescue of some sun-burned skin as we enjoy the outside activities, here are some tips to help you through and renew your skin no matter what the season.

1) Calm with Cool - Soothe and treat your skin with cooling aloe vera gel or lotion.  You can lso try adding essential oils such as Peppermint or Eucalyptus Blue, which can up the ante on your aloe vera and aid in soothing your skin and added cooling sensation. A cool shower or bath can also be helpful to bring down the heat on your skin.

2) Drink lots of water - Sunburn can draw fluid to the skin's surface and away from the rest of the body.  It's important to drink water to prevent dehydration while your sunburn is healing.

3) Nourish & Hydrate the Skin - You can help restore the skin with cleansing milk cleansers and hydrating lotions with calm ingredients in them like aloe or chamomile.  It's also important to avoid abrasive products (e.g. scrubs) and treatment products containing retinoids or alpha/beta hydroxyacids until your skin is healed. 

Don’t let the upcoming cool or cloudy days fool you either…it's important to wear sunscreen and remember to apply it to forgotten spots like your scalp and ears.  The Mayo Clinic recommends reapplying sunscreen every 40-80 minutes, and more often if you are sweating or swimming.

Stay safe and enjoy the rest of your summer!

-Michelle