Posted by: Dr. Cutié
Lanzarote is famous for its stunning volcanic landscapes, year-round sunny weather, and pristine beaches. While soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters, it’s essential to take proper care of your skin. The combination of sun, saltwater, and wind can be harsh, but with the right skincare routine, you can protect and nourish your skin effectively. Here’s your ultimate guide to skin care while enjoying the Lanzarote beaches.
Start by exfoliating your skin a day before you head to the beach. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, allowing for a more even application of sunscreen and ensuring your skin absorbs moisture better. Use a gentle scrub or a natural exfoliant like sugar mixed with honey.
Hydrated skin is more resilient to the harsh beach environment. Drink plenty of water leading up to your beach day, and use a hydrating serum or moisturizer with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it generously 15-30 minutes before sun exposure to all exposed skin areas. Don’t forget often-missed spots like the tops of your feet, the back of your neck, and your ears.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Keep a travel-sized sunscreen in your beach bag for easy access.
Try to spend time under a beach umbrella or shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun's rays are the strongest. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses can also shield your face and eyes from direct sun exposure.
The sun and saltwater can dehydrate your skin quickly. Bring plenty of water and sip regularly. Eating water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumbers can also help keep you hydrated from the inside out.
Lips are often neglected when it comes to sun protection. Use a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher to prevent them from becoming dry, chapped, or sunburned.
After a swim, rinse off the salt and sand from your skin using fresh water. Salt can dry out your skin, and sand can be abrasive. Pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing to avoid irritation.
After a day at the beach, use a gentle cleanser to remove any remaining sunscreen, salt, and sand from your skin. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip your skin of its natural oils.
Apply a generous amount of moisturizer after cleansing to replenish any lost moisture. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, and ceramides, which help soothe and repair sun-exposed skin.
Aloe vera gel is excellent for cooling and calming sunburned or irritated skin. Keep a bottle in your fridge and apply it to any red or tender areas for relief.
Consider using an after-sun lotion that contains antioxidants like vitamin C and E, which can help repair skin damage caused by sun exposure.
If you have sensitive skin, opt for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation. Avoid products with fragrances and dyes, and choose hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formulas to prevent breakouts and allergic reactions.
Despite your best efforts, sometimes sunburns happen. If you experience severe sunburn, characterized by blistering, swelling, severe pain, or fever, it’s important to seek medical attention. In such cases, visiting a clinic is advisable to ensure proper treatment and care. Our medical center Lanzarote Emergency Clinic in Puerto del Carmen is a reliable option where you can get professional help to manage your sunburn effectively. We can provide treatments like pain relief, hydration, and specialized creams to promote healing and prevent further complications. You can come anytime or call us so our doctors can go to you.
Enjoying the beautiful beaches of Lanzarote doesn’t mean compromising on skin health. By following these tips, you can protect your skin from the harsh elements and keep it glowing and healthy. Always remember, the key to great skin care is consistency and choosing the right products for your skin type. So pack your beach bag with these essentials and enjoy your sun-soaked days worry-free! Stay Sun-Safe and Have Fun! Taking these simple yet effective steps will ensure you can enjoy the stunning beaches of Lanzarote while keeping your skin happy and healthy. Happy beach-going!