So Long, Lizard Skin!

By Katie of HBC

This time of year temperatures are on the rise and the sun's rays are getting increasingly intense. Many of us begin to see dry, itchy, cracking patches pop up on our skin where the sun has taken its toll. Aaaargh! What can you do to avoid the leather handbag look this season? Follow these tips for keeping your skin hydrated while still soaking up the sun outdoors.

Don't Be Afraid of a Little Oil

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. During the summer it seems like this can't be stressed enough, and it also seems like our skin just can't get enough! If applying a regular old lotion isn't cutting it, you're not alone. Now is the time when our skin needs a little something extra to help combat these harsh conditions. Heavy creams are much more effective than lotions at holding in moisture, but pure body oils can offer an even deeper and more hydrating alternative. In addition, their lighter consistency makes them more favorable than a cream in the summertime heat.

Many people avoid using body oils for fear that it will clog their pores. On the contrary, certain oils can be very balancing to the skin offering hydration for dryness and putting a halt to its over-production on oily complexions. Oils such as jojoba, rosehip, sweet almond and primrose all contain fatty acids that work with our skin's sebum (our body's natural oily secretion that moistens and protects the skin) rather than against it. This means they won't clog pores, but instead can help rebuild our lipid barrier and prevent rough, dry skin.

And don't forget about shea butter. This miraculous moisturizer has been used for centuries in Africa to treat everything from severely dry skin to scars, acne, burns, rashes and wrinkles. Ultra rich and creamy, it locks the moisture into our skin. I use our bulk unrefined shea butter to make my own body creams. EvanHealy's Shea Butter Face and Body Cream with Olive Leaf is essential to protect my face and hands after a day of gardening or a long canoe paddle.

Other Tips for Staying Hydrated

Turn down the temperature of your hot water.

Scalding temperatures in the sink and shower do nothing but dehydrate our already dry skin. A cooler temperature will allow your body to hold in more moisture.

Moisturize immediately after showering.

Applying a moisturizer as soon as you step out of the shower while your skin is still damp will help the oils sink in further and last longer.

Shower less often.

This allows your body to hold on to its natural oils and protect the skin for longer periods of time.

Try some omega-3's.

Take an Omega-3 fatty acid supplement such as flax oil or fish oil. Not only do they offer extraordinary health benefits like reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow throughout the brain and body, but they act as internal moisturizers nourishing the skin from the inside out.

More water, less caffeine.

Increasing the amount of water you drink and decreasing your alcohol and caffeine intake can also be helpful in dry times.