When many of us think of how to practice self-love and self-care, it is often secondary.  For example: after a long day we can draw a luxurious bath with candles and flower petals, or once we’ve finally finished that stressful work project we can book ourselves a massage…  Can you relate?  Only once we’ve experienced some kind of hardship can we allow ourselves the “special treat” of self-care.  

I happen to believe that the best way to truly love yourself is to make self-care a primary priority.  Starting your day with a nourishing skincare routine, for example, is like giving yourself a giant hug and a fancy gift all wrapped in one; it’s another way of telling yourself, “I love you unconditionally, I am here to protect you and nurture you, and whatever the day brings you got this!”  Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal, of opportunity and adventure.  As the seasons naturally shift into this newness, allow yourself to open up too.  Try shifting your priorities and move self-care to the top of your list this Spring.

Perhaps the most important way to take care of yourself before you suffer is to prep your skin for the sun!  We all know the discomfort of a sunburn, and we know that even when the stinging goes away, sun damaged skin can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer.  Yikes!  We don’t want that.

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8 Essential Skin Tips to Prep for Summer

1. Invest in quality sunscreen. Look for ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium; they sit on the surface of the skin and act as a protective barrier that reflects UV rays away from skin. Some of my favorite sunscreens are the Supergoop Zincscreen 40, Play 50 and Glowscreen 40. Also love Elta MD!
   
   
2. Get yourself a stylish and protective hat and/or visor. I love this one! We often think that once you apply SPF your skin is protected, but giving your skin extra protection is so important for keeping hyperpigmentation regulated.
   
   
3. Hydrate! In addition to drinking lots of water, use a hydrating cleanser to keep moisture in the skin. The White Tiger Cleanser is a hydrating and refreshing cleanser that leaves your complexion bright, clean, and soft. Created for all skin types, the White Tiger Cleanser is a luxurious one-step gel formula that gently removes dirt, impurities, and makeup without stripping or irritating the skin.
   
   
4. Exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and keep skin glowing. The White Tiger Exfoliant contains aloe vera, kaolin, and glycerin. These ingredients help to lock in moisture, absorb oil & stimulate cell turnover, allowing the skin to maintain a young, healthy glow and preparing the skin for the elements.
   
   
5. Don’t forget about your neck and decollete. The chest is so easy to forget but often takes on the sun very quickly, so it is essential if your chest is showing to prepare and protect daily. Cleanse and exfoliate these areas as you would your face and cover completely with sunscreen.
   
   
6. Use a melanin balancing serum to maintain an even-toned complexion. Too much exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun can cause collagen fibers to unravel, leading to wrinkles and sun damage. The White Tiger Serum is designed to combat pigmentation; it works to fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and prevent the breakdown of collagen, ultimately preventing and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles and leaving skin bright, firm, hydrated, and radiant.
   
   
7. Start stocking your bags and even your car with your fav sunscreen! And when it’s time, generously apply sunscreen to all exposed skin using an SPF of at least 30, preferably 50. If you’re going to be spending lots of time outside, make sure to bring your sunscreen with you so you can reapply every couple hours. I love to keep the Supergoop GLOW STICK or the mineral stick in my car, especially for the left side of the face, which often takes on more sun while driving. It’s the perfect quick fix for easy, on the go sun protection.
   
   
8. Last but absolutely not least…I said it once, and I’ll say it again: REAPPLY, REAPPLY, REAPPLY. I promise you it is so worth it. I apply SPF continuously throughout the day to make sure my skin is  protected.

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In both your self-care and skin care journeys, I hope you can prioritize and protect you.
Remember, you’re not alone!  I’m forever working on these practices too. 
And, whether I’m in California or Florida, I’m always incorporating sun care into my skin care routine.  Sending love and sunshine to you wherever you are.  I’m always here to guide and support and if you ever have more questions, feel free to reach out!

xoxo,

Alexandra Wagner