For most of us, Summer is the best time of the year! We lose our routine and await for those long bright evenings to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. However, it is also that time of the year to ensure we take extra precautions to protect and nourish our skin from the sun’s harmful rays and environmental elements. Plainly said, our skin takes a beating in these blissful months.  So we thought we would share these 5 at home skin care remedies to help protect that gorgeous face of yours.

1. Sunscreen

   Protecting your face, drinking plenty of water (and perhaps even splashing some on your face to remove the dirt throughout the day) and leading a healthy lifestyle will all aid in keeping your wrinkles at bayI think what comes to mind first is the obvious…sunscreen! As part of your morning routine, apply a minimum 30 SPF sunscreen that protects your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays.

2. Cleanse your face

   Cleanse your face morning and night by using a little bit of honey and yogurt. Equal amounts applied to your face and left on for approximately 10 minutes will leave your skin feeling smooth and very clean.

3. Exfoliate

   Exfoliate your skin at least twice a week by using a mixture of baking soda, olive (or coconut oil) and honey. Why? Because the baking soda will remove the dead skin cells and balance the PH levels. It also is very soothing and will decrease any inflammation present. Here’s a little recipe you can try: combine 1 teaspoon of baking soda and olive oil and ½ teaspoon of honey. Mix together and apply to your damp face for 10 minutes. Rinse with cool water, pat dry and apply your moisturizer as usual. Or you can use a mixture of equal amounts of lemon juice and sugar…rub in circular motions and rinse off.

4. Moisturize

   You can use extra virgin Coconut oil and apply a small layer on your face at night (coconut oil provides essential fatty acids) to give you glowing skin in the morning. Just rub into the palm of your hands to warm up and apply it sparingly. Or, you may want to use some fresh Aloe Vera from the Aloe Vera plant. The Aloe plant contains hormones that reduce skin inflammation…perfect to have on hand for those sunburns. Aloe is excellent for hydration but did you know that you can also freeze the juice into small ice cube trays? Just use when needed!

5. Mask

   Mask, using bananas. Yes…bananas! Bananas contain potassium, Vitamins C and E and are responsible for promoting clear glowing skin. Mash a ripe banana, add some milk or an egg white and mix thoroughly. Apply it evenly to your face and leave on for about 20 minutes then wash it off with tepid water and moisturize. Who knew bananas have multiple uses!?