The colder temperatures are gone, and many are baring less. After being bundled up all winter, people are shedding their jackets and long pants for beach attire. With summer here, it is important to remember how intense the sun's rays can be to our largest organ- our skin says skin treatment San Diego specialist. We need to keep in mind that some of the biggest enemies to our skin are the harmful UVA and UVB rays. UVB burn rays are responsible for painful sunburns and causes wrinkles. UVA affect collagen which keeps our skin plump. Both types lead to skin cancer. Despite knowing this, many people still choose to engage in skin damaging outdoor activities and others enjoy the look of a "summer glow" and use Fractional CO2 Laser peel San Diego to resurface and smooth out their skin later on.

According to Dr. Maurice Sherman, San Diego Fraxel laser treatment expert, these 8 easy tips you can avoid sun damage which ultimately causes premature aging, wrinkles, and in some cases- melanoma skin cancer.

1. Exfoliation is key. Getting rid of the dead flaky skin cells that result from dry winter months will keep your skin looking fresh year round.

2. Noncomedogenic moisturizers after exfoliating, shaving, and showering. Moisturizers will help form a skin barrier that will protect you, yet not clog your pores causing you unpleasant breakouts.

3. Slather on the sunscreen. Everyone should wear a sunscreen containing a minimum of SPF 15 or higher. It is important to check the label for a broad spectrum agent containing zinc or titanium oxide that will protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. There is no such thing as applying too much especially if you are doing activities involving water and high-perspiration between the hours of 10 and 4- when the sun's rays are the most intense. And sunscreen takes 15 to 20 minutes to work effectively, so be sure to apply it prior to being in the sun. It is important to reapply it often because it only is effective for about two hours. Scars? The sun will dramatically affect those parts, so be sure to use a higher SPF on those areas.

4. Protection through clothing. Dry dark long-sleeved shirts are most beneficial. Sunlight and the harmful rays are absorbed through clothing. So, layer on the clothes when possible. Fashion a hat with a 2-3 inch brim, which will protect not only the top of your head, but also your neck and ears- where skin cancers most often develop. You can also be stylish with a pair of protective sunglasses that will guard your eyes.

5. Drink up. Drinking plenty of water will keep your skin hydrated and keep you looking young.

6. You are what you eat. Regularly eating dark-green leafy vegetables containing the antioxidant Lutein will help protect your skin year long. Also- applying green tea extracts to your skin will help eliminate inflammation.

7. Check your labels. Many prescription medicines will cause your skin to burn more easily. Check with your physician before soaking up the sun.

8. Check-it out. Get in the routine of checking your skin in a well-lit room once a month. A step-by-step guide can be found in "Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection" by the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.

By understanding the damage that can be caused from the sun's rays and taking these precautions, your skin will stand the test of time. And you will have a summer-glow to be happy about. If you would like more information about skin treatment San Diego, contact an expert today for a free consultation.