For residents of a nation nicknamed the ‘sunburnt country’, we can always use a reminder when it comes to taking care of our skin.
Alongside nasty sunburn, our summer sun can also contribute to a range of skin conditions like eczema as the heat of the outside air coupled with increased exposure to air conditioning can dry out sensitive skin.
Prevention and protection is the skin care method advocated Rachael Finch who believes in an effective sun block used in conjunction with a tailored skin care regime.
“When it comes to defense against the sun – it all comes down to ingredients, and knowing what works for your own skin,” says Rachael, who admits to being selective about her own skin care regime.
“While sunscreen with a chemical filter absorbs the harmful rays and generally blends into skin much more naturally, it can wreak havoc on sensitive skin types – in which case a physical barrier sunscreen option which reflects the rays might be best, even if it does feel a little heavier,” Rachael said.
“What’s important to remember is that there is no one type of sunscreen that will work for all people, but everyone must use some kind of sun care to protect their skin from age spots, pigmentation issues, premature ageing and cancer.”
Here Rachael Finch shares her top tips for summer skin care:
- Have a skin care plan
A tailored skin care plan is more important than ever in summer as skin irritations can be more prone to flare ups, and sun damage is a real possibility. Alongside the proactive use of sunscreen, your summer skin care plan should incorporate strategies that help improve the skin’s barrier. Your health care professional can help you develop an effective plan, while your pharmacist can advise on the appropriateness of including medication such as hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines.
- Don’t rely on your beauty brand ‘go-to’ when it comes to sun care
There is no better feeling than when you find a beauty brand that just ‘gets you’, with an entire range that works with your skin that you can pick up all in one go. Unfortunately, sunscreen really is the exception to this rule. Make sure you read labels, patch-test your skin first, and find the type that’s not going to cause irritation or inflammation.
- Lather up, but be sure to wash it off!
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is leaving your sunscreen on once you’ve finished with the sun for the day! Sunscreens that work as a physical barrier to UV rays tend not to absorb into the skin as easily as those with a chemical filter, and can clog your pores if left on for prolonged periods of time. Make sure you rinse off after lathering up to avoid break-outs.
- Hydrate
Hydrating the skin inside and out is especially important at this time of year. Drinking lots of water will help to combat dry skin and prevent eczema flare ups. It’s also important to focus on the outside by applying a good moisturiser regularly as an effective barrier for your skin, as well as using an after sun lotion to sooth the skin.
- If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is
Fragranced or perfumed sunscreens often contain petrochemicals, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. Similarly, spray sunscreens sound good in theory but can be tricky to navigate (especially with little ones!) leaving unexpected sunburn patches from lack of coverage. Stick to non-fragranced sunscreen with visible coverage so you can ensure you’re protected in the most natural way. I love the Amcal sunscreen Dry Touch SPF 50 lotion which allows you to lather this directly onto skin, without that sticky feeling. 125ml retails for just $7.99.
- Don’t forget to pucker-up for lip-friendly protection
If you’ve ever had sunburnt lips, you know that those nasty blisters take ages to heal, hurt and sometimes even cause your lips to swell up. Avoid this by applying an easy-to-use, moisturising lip balm with SPF 50+ protection. I love Amcal’s moisturising lip balm which retails for just $3.49. Unlike sunscreen, this balm is not visibly white nor thick in texture and can be used in addition to your lipstick or lip gloss. For extra hydrated lips, I like to finish my summer make up look with one of Colour Theory’s new lip gloss kits in La La Lips or Kisses By The Moonlight, each featuring 4 new colours for just $15.00.
- Keep your little ones in mind
Children have delicate skin, and as such, they need stronger protection from the sun. As well as keeping them physically covered up with hats, rash vests and sunglasses, it’s important to incorporate a sunscreen that’s gentle on young skin while still containing a decent SPF rating. I love the Amcal Toddler Sunscreen in SPF50+ (125ml), at just $7.99 a pop.
– What are your favourite health websites and apps?
I really enjoy listening to the guests Tim Ferris has on his podcast – The Tim Ferris Show. And my own online health program www.bodybyfinch.com has been a dream to work on. I am so passionate about creating a place that people can come to change their life, from every aspect. We provide all your workouts, meal plans, meditations, other live lifestyle tips and tricks, plus a supportive community like no other!
– How do you juggle being a mum and staying fit and health?
I try to ensure that I find time for myself. Whether that be 5 minutes for my morning coffee on the balcony, or something more indulgent like a massage every once in a while. As a Mum, we are giving so much energy all the time, and my work is also quite demanding, so I make sure I schedule in time where I can gather my thoughts and just be. When working out, I try to incorporate the kids where possible, whether it be a morning routine on the balcony, a walk with the pram or a day at the beach – the kids love it.
– Do you lean on any tech help?
All of my thoughts and goals go into the notes app on my phone and I regularly use Spotify for my workout tracks. We have one of those outdoor UE Boom speakers that we put on the balcony during our workouts.
The Carousel would like to thank Rachel Finch for her story. Rachel is an ambassador for Amcal Pharmacy.
