Summer is here! After being cooped up indoors, we're all eager to get out and play outside. While spending our days at the beach, beside the pool or in the park is enjoyable our skin can bear the brunt of the sun exposure.

When it comes to being sun smart most of us think about slapping on some sunscreen and wearing a hat. However, there are lots of ways you can naturally protect your skin this summer so you can remain youthful, glowing and cancer-free. 

Wear sunscreen daily 

Generally speaking, we've got the slip, slop, slap motto down pat when we're spending dedicated time in the sunshine. But what about the incidental sun exposure or on cloudy days?

If you want to protect your skin this summer, apply a natural sunscreen every day, all year round. 

Just remember, not all sunscreens are the same. The FDA has recently flagged ingredients that when used regularly could be doing more harm than good. Many of the commercial sunscreen brands are not just toxic for us, but also damaging for our ocean life. 

We love:

• Sunbutter Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 
• Winki Zinc Tinted Base in Tin
• Winki Zinc Tinted Base in Eco Tube

Wear your sun protection 

Simply put, the more your clothing covers your body, the more protected you are from the sun. Think light long-sleeved linens that keep you cool but covered. 

Sunnies and wide brimmed hats are also essential for face, eyes and head protection. Keep a hat in your car or office for when you do have those unplanned moments outdoors. 

Protect your lips

Lips are often one area of the body we overlook when thinking about sun protection. However, thin skinned, lips are so easy to burn! 

If you haven't already invested in an a lip balm containing SPF, it's time! Pop it on the moment you leave the house and carry it with you in your bag. Blocks - this is a must for you too! 

We love:

• Winki Zinc Lip & Cheek Tint
• Weleda Skin Food Lip Balm - for after sun hydration

Nutrients 

Your diet can help to protect you from the sun and reduce the potential for sunburn. Nutrients such as carotenoids such as lycopene, beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids can have sun-protective benefits when consumed and applied on to the skin. 

Consuming a diverse array of whole foods and colourful fruits and vegetables can help ensure you're getting these nutrients in. 

Nourishing your skin with a nutrient-rich, quality moisturiser can also be helpful for after sun exposure. Try Weleda Skin food which has skin-calming extracts of pansy, chamomile and calendula that are great for relief after time in the sun.