Summer of 2013: Quick Tips for Glowing Skin!

The sun is finally here in all its glory! For those of us who love these sunny summer days, it's not likely that anything could possibly dampen our spirits now, and the millions of "here comes the sun" Facebook updates can testify to that! So, before you hit the great outdoors to soak up some afternoon sun, take a quick look at these tips for how you can have glowing skin this summer.

Start with your plate: As a friend of mine says: "the secret to more health is always through more food!"-well, okay, more of the right kinds of food. Eat foods that have less oil and salt in them, and instead go for foods that are hydrating like salads, fruit juices, natural fruit smoothies, fruits, and leafy greens. There is a huge debate going on right now in the health world with one side saying that we should avoid salt, and the other side saying that salt is actually good for us. While I can't say that I'm particularly sure about who is right and who is wrong, since both seem to have very legitimate arguments, I will say: remember in all things to keep a balance. Less is more, and moderation is the key in all phases of life. Cutting down on sugar and grains is also a great way to avoid the pimples and acne that are almost always a problem once outdoor temperatures rise. Drink lots of water, even when you are not thirsty. When you feel really thirsty this is actually the first step of your body telling you that you are dehydrated, so don't wait till that happens. Carry a bottle of water in your car, in your handbag, to the gym, or wherever you are going. Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water every day to keep your skin properly hydrated and glowing at its best.

Hydrate your skin: While this may vary from person to person, I've personally found that it's best not to go for the skin lotions that are rich in oils and oil based during the hotter summer months. It's generally better to save the oil based lotions for the winter when your skin needs all the extra nutrition it can get, and use water based lotions for the summer months when your skin needs all the hydration it can get. Depending on the climate, using oily lotions during the summer may cause a lot of pimples, blackheads, and in growths if you're not careful. Shaving and epilating are usually forgotten during the winter, because it's really too cold to show our legs even if we wanted too. But during the summer when short skirts, dresses, and jean shorts are in, it's just best to take all the precaution that we can to insure that our skin remains beautiful, soft and supple without any in growths, pimples, and blackheads. I would suggest that you use brands like Vichy which are well known for their fortifying and soothing properties. The best part about the skin care products from Vichy is that they are made with mineral-rich thermal spa water that has 15 minerals and 13 trace elements in it. But there are plenty of other brands that are rich in hydrating qualities so find out what works best for you.

Exfoliate twice or thrice a week: The next step to healthy skin during the summer is to ensure that your pores are cleaned out, unblocked and able to breath easily. When your pores are clogged with dirt, sweat, and oils this can lead to acne and dull looking skin. Always keep a tube of body scrub handy near your shower. I'm a huge fan of DIY beauty secrets, so I always prefer to make my own scrubs, but if time does not permit, then store bought apricot, berry, or almond scrubs work just as well. But just encase you are interested in making your own scrubs, here's one one recipe that I love because it's quick and easy to whip up and keep in the fridge if there are any extras:

• Thanksgiving Spa!
• 1 tablespoon fresh apple mash or apple sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Mix all the ingredients together till smooth with no lumps, and then apply the scrub to your skin using circular motions. Because apples are rich in nutritional benefits, are 85% water filled, and are loaded with potassium and Vitamins A and C, they are a rich healing ingredient for your skin. I've found this scrub to be perfect for removing dead skin cells and surface dirt from elbows, knees, and feet. You can even add a half tablespoon of butter to the scrub so that it smoothes your skin at the same time. There are loads of other recipes online so don't be afraid to research them. This particular recipe has ingredients that won't last outside of the fridge, but there are others that can be made with essential oils and sugar, coffee, or oatmeal. These stay for a while longer and can even be put on display in your bathroom self in a nice decorated jar, or even gifted to a friend.