Sun-Wise this Summer

School is out, summer is here, and there is no better way to spend your days than in the great outdoors. However, along with the recreation and relaxation, this season also brings the risk of too much sun exposure.

In this article, we will explore five ways you can be sun-wise this summer. We will discuss how to nourish your skin from the inside out, bringing out that summer glow and keeping it looking young, vibrant, and healthy.

?Here are five ways you can be sun-wise this summer with The Harvest Table:

1. Limit sun exposure to 20 minutes a day

Contrary to popular belief, Vitamin D is not a vitamin or nutrient, but a hormone produced by our bodies when our skin reacts to ultraviolet light. Sunlight exposure for 20 minutes a day is crucial as it helps convert cholesterol in the skin into beneficial Vitamin D3. Surprisingly, 60-80% of the world's population is deficient in Vitamin D3. However, it's crucial to find a balance when it comes to sun exposure.

Too much sun can be damaging to both our skin and health, while too little can lead to Vitamin D deficiency, which has been linked to various health concerns including cancers, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, depression, bone loss, and autoimmune diseases.

Dr. Mark Hyman, an American physician and author, suggests getting full body exposure to the sun for 15-20 minutes a day. Sunlight triggers chemicals and hormones vital for healthy sleep, aging, and mood. It also releases endorphins and boosts our happiness! “Try getting your sunshine vitamin before 10AM in the South African sun to avoid the harsh midday heat that Africa brings in the Summer months,” says Cath Clark, founder of the Harvest Table.

2. Seek shade

While we will discuss natural sun creams later in this article, the best way to protect yourself from the sun is by seeking shade. Instead of relying solely on creams, find trees, umbrellas, and shaded areas for protection.

3. Choose safe sun cream products

?In the South African sun, sun creams often become our saviours. However, many products on the market contain harsh chemicals and toxins that do more harm than good. Play it safe by opting for natural sun creams that nourish your skin. We highly recommend Lelive All the Shade SPF 30 Sheer Tinted Moisturiser.

4. Stay hydrated with water?

With the summer heat and sun exposure, staying hydrated is crucial. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to support your overall health and well-being. Avoid store-bought juices and caffeinated sodas, and instead, stick to good old water. It will keep you hydrated and flush out toxins from your system.

Water is also remarkably important for maintaining youthful-looking skin. Staying hydrated helps flush out toxins that often manifest in skin conditions and blemishes. Keep your skin radiant by purchasing an eco-friendly water bottle from The Harvest Table's online store and hydrating throughout the day.

5. Combat sun-damaged skin with collagen supplementation

Excessive exposure to the sun can be detrimental to the health of our skin. The UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun have the potential to increase the presence of free radicals, causing damage to the DNA in our skin cells. This can result in a reduction in the elasticity of our skin and the breakdown of Collagen proteins, which are essential for maintaining healthy and vibrant skin.

?To combat these negative effects, it is crucial to incorporate Collagen supplementation into our summer routine. The Harvest Table’s Multi Collagen Granules are an excellent choice as they contain ample amounts of Amino acids, Type I, II, and III Collagen. This makes them an ideal addition to your skincare regimen during the festive summer season. Additionally, for easy usage while traveling, CollaPro? Advanced capsules are available. These capsules are specially formulated to provide all the benefits of collagen powders but in a convenient daily dose of just five capsules. This advanced formula ensures maximum bioavailability and absorption, allowing for efficient utilization by the body

In conclusion, being sun-wise this Summer is of utmost importance to ensure long-lasting vibrant health. The harmful effects of sun exposure on the skin cannot be underestimated. By taking sun protection seriously, such as wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and supporting your health with regular collagen consumption, you can safeguard your skin and maintain its youthful, vibrant appearance.