Let's talk about why it's important to protect skin from the sun and how to do so correctly. 

When welcoming spring, summer and indulging in the warming sun, it's tempting to want to soak our skin in the suns rays and enjoy every minute outside. And so, to get the suns rays you must remember the rules of staying in the sun. It is especially important for red heads and blondes, since with these hair types comes lighter and more sensitive skin. Red heads and blondes therefore often need additional protection from pigmentation - freckles. Freckles give a women charm and character, but they should not be allowed to take over and multiply in large numbers as the process of lightening and clearing the freckles can be complicated and time consuming.

So, what should be remembered before going outside, for a walk on the streets, in the wild or to the beach - remember the application of sun cream on the areas of exposed skin before going outside and, if you are heading to the beach do not forget to bring the sun cream with you. There is a huge variety of sun creams available on the market and, like with other cosmetics you must choose carefully. Paying attention before choosing the cream is necessary for its sun protection factors (SPF) and its composition. I would recommend choosing a cream without artificial fragrances and chemicals (Parabens) with medium coverage from the sun, e.g. SPF 10-20. If you want more protection then you should look for a cream with SPF 20-30 or higher. The sun cream should be reapplied a couples times throughout the day if you find yourself in the sun for long periods of time. If you are at a beach you should apply the sun cream before and after swimming, every time. When we swim, often we make a mistake and assume we are protected from the sun in the water, this is deceptive since water actually reflects the suns rays and increases the risk of burning. After exiting the water dry yourself with a towel and immediately apply the sun cream.

This is the same for cosmetics and day creams with SPF factors. Using them can replace sunscreen, especially if you are not in the sun for a very long time. It allows a minimal and lighter use of cosmetics on the skin, daily. The use of day creams or makeup with SPF avoids a greasy shine which will be present after the application of the usual day cream and even sunscreen, especially with a brief contact with the sun, there is no need for increased protection. If it is a long stay in the sun it is better to use a  sunscreen substance, those such as cream or spray. These should be applied to the skin 15-20 minutes after the use of other creams if there is a greasy shine, remove the remnants of un-absorbed cream with a paper towel about 10 minutes after application.

It is important to remember, there is no cream or cosmetic that will provide 100% protection, so do not overdo it in the sun. Skin, especially fair skin or that which is not accustomed to the sun should be gradually exposed to the sun for longer periods of time, beginning from 15-20 minutes per session. If it so happens that you burn, you should firstly remove the heat by placing on to the burn a damp, cold tissue, napkin or towel and hold for a few minutes. After this I recommend aftersun or a product for burns depending on the level of the burn. 

There are also natural remedies for soothing burns and removing freckles such as cucumbers. The cucumber should be cleaned, grate and squeeze the juice. Soak a cotton pad in the cucumber juice apply the grated cucumber a couple times a day or over night. If there are any wounds on the skin, the use of this remedy should be avoided. You can also make a face mask by applying a cucumber to the skin for 15 to 20 minutes. This mask has a good whitening and cooling effect and is recommended as a means for whitening freckles. Also, the whitening effect of the juice of parsley and lemon, but they should not be used in its pure form, but only as an integral part of the mask or tonic. Do not forget that lemon juice dries the skin, so anyone with dry skin  should use it with caution and in small amounts. Also, when using any cosmetic and natural remedies, remember that they could cause allergies. Therefore, it is necessary to test it, applying a small amount on the wrist before use for a few minutes to check for an allergic reaction. If there is any redness, itching or swelling, this use of this remedy should be stopped.

So when going on vacation don't forget to take with you a proven, good and reliable sunscreen, and enjoy your vacation.

 I wish you a happy holiday and lots of sun!