Summer is officially here and so is outdoor music festival season. Dancing the day and night away is definitely fun, but being out of your regular routine can increase the risk of damaging your skin. In this instance, you will be outdoors, sweating, and spending more time exposed to the sun. With careful planning, you can take care of your skin and still enjoy swaying to the tunes of your favorite artists in the company of friends. Here’s how you can protect your skin during music festival season from the inside and out.
Tip 1. Wear sun-protective clothing and accessories
Clothing serves a couple of purposes in skin protection. First, it provides protection from harmful UV rays that damage skin, cause unwanted wrinkles and fine lines, and create pigmentation. You will also be more prone to sunburn. Even if you are in the shade, you can still be exposed to the sun. Wearing loose, breathable clothing lets your skin breathe and does not trap sweat. When sweat becomes trapped, impurities may settle back into your skin and cause irritation or breakouts. Sweat can also trap dirt and other particles on your skin. Cotton, linen, and bamboo are all healthy fabric options that minimize sweating and help skin breathe. Don’t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your scalp from sunburn and for additional protection on your face!
Tip 2. Wear a clean sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must at music festivals because you will be increasing your exposure to the sun. Protecting your skin with sunscreen is important for the entire body, but especially your face. The sun is at its peak hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., making it the most important time to be mindful of sun exposure. You should also remember to apply a clean sunblock with zinc oxide every two hours (more if you get wet). Don’t forget to put sunscreen on unsuspecting places that are prone to sunburn, such as the tops of your ears, scalp and on your feet and hands. A lip balm with clean ingredients (avoid mineral oil and other petroleum-based ingredients and choose ones with plant-based organic ingredients and zinc oxide) will help protect the delicate skin on your lips from burning.
Tip 3. Avoid heavy makeup and pack clean skin care options
Layers of heavy makeup combined with sweat and dust from being outdoors can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. If you wear makeup, choose light mineral makeup and tinted sunblock and pack skin care quick fixes. Face wipes made with natural and organic ingredients are an easy solution to quickly wipe away dirt and perspiration, providing they do not contain parabens or fragrance. Fragrance-free wipes with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera gently give the skin a much-needed pick-me-up by removing impurities throughout the day and night. After you’ve cleaned your skin, use natural skin care products to freshen and brighten your skin, like The Spa Dr.’s Step 2 and Step 3. If you’re in a dry climate, be sure to add some Step 4 Glow Boost. Then, reapply your zinc-oxide based sunblock every few hours.
Tip 4. Eat clean food
Music festival food poses some health risks. Food sitting in the sun at food carts may not have proper refrigeration, and it may not be covered properly. This can lead to food poisoning, especially animal-based foods, including chicken, mayo, eggs, and meats. Your best choices at music festivals are plant-based and vegetarian foods. Grilled vegetables, veggie burgers, salads, and organic foods are healthier options. And the added antioxidants in veggies has the added benefit of protecting your skin from within from free radical damage.
Tip 5. Stay hydrated
Don’t forget to drink plenty of filtered water to stay hydrated. Because you will likely be sweating more from spending time in the sun and constantly being on the move, you will get dehydrated faster. This means that you will need more water than usual to stay hydrated. If you can, bring in your own filtered water in stainless steel water bottles. Coconut water is another great hydration option due to the naturally occurring electrolytes. Eating fruit will provide a little extra hydration and essential vitamins, antioxidants, and electrolytes. It is also important to not overindulge in alcohol and caffeine, which causes dehydration.
Tip 6. Have fun
Letting loose at a music festival is all about having a good time! Enjoying the fresh air and nature all around is very relaxing and good for your spirit. If you are dancing a lot, you are relieving stress and getting exercise. Let your inner beauty shine as you kick up your heels and have fun with friends!
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