UV protection and more

STAY SAFE THIS SUMMER

It’s a dilemma: we love summer, the sun and a refreshing dip in the sea or pool – but our skin and hair suffer. After all, UV radiation is responsible for over 80 per cent of premature skin ageing, and salt and chlorine take an additional toll on hair and beards. But so that you don’t have to spend your days in the shade and can enjoy your summer in style, we’ll show you how to look after yourself properly during the hot season and get UV protection right.

It’s fine to apply a thick layer

First things first: UV protection isn’t just about avoiding sunburn and itchy skin, but about preventing long-term damage. Although most people know the importance of sun protection, they tend to ignore it. Men, in particular, are real slacks when it comes to applying cream. We need to change that!

The intensity of the sun’s rays changes almost hourly throughout the day. The sun is particularly harmful between 11 am and 3 pm. During this time, it’s wiser to stay in the shade. If you’re spending a day off at the lake, beach or in the mountains, a good sun cream routine is essential – especially if you’re in the water from time to time.

People often use far too little sun cream. Yet full UV protection can only take effect if enough is applied – the rule here is: the more, the better. A man standing 1.80 metres tall should use around 40 millilitres per application. A rule of thumb is that two milligrams per square centimetre of skin should be used. Just remember to apply a generous amount to your body twice an hour. This is close to the recommended amount and will see you through a sunny day without any problems. However, if you have sensitive skin, you should also ask your GP for advice.

What needs protecting

Whether in swimming trunks on the beach or in a suit in the high street – every bit of skin exposed to the sun should be protected. This starts with the soles of your feet and ends with your hair. It’s quick to apply sun cream to your arms and face, but there’s one area most people forget: the scalp. And this despite the fact that it’s extremely exposed to the sun. If you get sunburnt, your hair and scalp dry out severely. This interrupts the supply of nutrients to the hair follicles, causing them to fall out more quickly.

One problem: many creams are greasy and make the hair sticky. There is a solution to this – clear pump and aerosol sprays. These are quickly applied to the head and do not leave the hair feeling greasy or sticky. But be careful: with pump sprays, there is a high risk of applying too little of the product. Alternatively, the right headwear is a popular summer aid: “When I’m out and about in Dubai, I always wear a baseball cap. That way, you not only protect your scalp but also provide shade for your face,” says master barber Anthony.

Summer care for men

Beards suffer in the sun too. Facial hair fades and becomes dry. After sunbathing, rich skincare is therefore essential. “I recommend that my clients use moisturising products such as our cold-pressed beard oil more frequently than usual on hot days. It is absorbed directly into the beard hairs and also combats dehydration of the skin,” says Anthony.

After-sun care

Aftercare is a must! A day in the sun or outdoors often involves cooling off in chlorinated or salt water. To remove all traces of these residues, it’s important to rinse the hair on and around the head thoroughly in the evening. “Thicker beard hairs in particular can become brittle otherwise,” says Anthony. “A shampoo and beard shampoo that cleanse and provide intensive care work wonders.”

If you do happen to get sunburnt: drink plenty of fluids! When we have sunburn, our body needs plenty of fluids to help the natural healing process along. Now you’re well prepared for warm and sunny summer days. And to round off your beach trip perfectly, here are our tips for beard hygiene once again.