Summer has finally arrived! It’s time to pack your suitcases and jet off to an exotic island. But for many of us, summer also brings  sun exposure, ice cream, hay fever and other irritating issues, It is so important to look after ourselves in the sun.  Luckily we have put together top ten tips for staying happy and healthy this summer, keep these in mind and enjoy yourself this summer! 

Wear your SPF!

It is important to use a sun lotion of at least SPF 30 – even better, 50 – in order to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. For sensitive skin, a mineral-based sunscreen is best. Try not to sit in the sun in peak hours between 10am and 4pm in order to minimise UV radiation, but of you are planning to be out in the sun for a long period of time, reapply suncream every two hours or immediately after swimming. Remember to use a facial sunscreen, too – just because there’s SPF in your makeup, does not mean you are protected!

Drink plenty of water

During the hot summer months, heat and sweat can leave your body dehydrated. Always keep a cool bottle of water with you throughout the day to prevent this from happening, try adding some slices of cucumber or lemon to add a fresh flavour.

Beware of ‘healthy’ smoothies

Fruit smoothies are a great way to get keep refreshed throughout the summer, but watch out for smoothies made with frozen yoghurts, ice cream or too much fruit, as they’re loaded with hidden calories! Try a green smoothie, made with fruit and vegetables, still delicious but does not contain as half as much sugar.

Exfoliate

Summer means an increase of dead skin cells so it is important to exfoliate your skin to keep it smooth and glowing. You don’t need to buy any expensive products simply make your own exfoliation lotion using a handful of oatmeal, milk and yoghurt.

Tackle hay fever

Hay fever sufferers can have an unbearable time in the summer. Make sure you vacuum your home regularly to get rid of  excess pollen in the air and make sure to wash wash and have a change of clothes when coming in from outdoors. Sadly there’s no miracle cure, but ask your pharmacy to stock up on anti-histamine products and nasal sprays. Streaming eyes? Sunglasses are your savior!

Keep up the exercise regime

Before those running shoes disappear off the face of the earth into your wardrobe, remember your exercise routine doesn’t have to stop because of the rising temperature and beaming sunshine. On very hot days, change your exercise plan and take it indoors. Take a class, or try a workout DVD. It will do you no favors to work out in the beaming sunshine, but when its a cooler day there’s nothing stopping you going out for a run or bike ride.  Remember take plenty of water and wear SPF!

Get swimming!

Why not try a summer dip at your local pool or summer lilo?,  a 30-minute swimming session will burn almost 400 calories! If swimming laps isn’t your thing, you could try a water aerobics class.

Protect your hair

Avoid heat styling! Our hair suffers enough in the summer. Constant heat, sun damage and chlorine can cause a lot of damage to our hair and can leave it feeling flat and dull after the holidays. Use a decent shampoo to remove the chlorine and any excess product or sun cream, then use a conditioning treatment or hair mask to add moisture back in.

Eat well by the pool

When being in the sites of the beaming sunshine, the idea of scoffing ice cream is seriously tempting. We all deserve treats every now and then but coming prepared with a healthy lunch and snacks will mean you get the nutrition you need, try a scrumptious summer salad or pasta and plenty of fruit and vegetables! Do not forget your water!

Take up a new hobby

Summer is the perfect time to take up a new activity. Gardening is a great summer hobby to take up, its therapeutic, keeps your outdoors and you even burn some calories! Or if you really want to feel the stretch try yoga!