Natural lotion for dry skin should be at the top of your list for beautiful summer skin

The sun, the sand, the surf, sandals, sunglasses and swimsuits – they all add up to another great summer. But summer can also be disastrous for your skin. For the best summer skin ever, follow these nine easy but indispensable dry skin care tips.

• The sun is hottest around noon. If you limit your tanning time to before 11:00 a.m. and after 2:00, you’ll have more chance of getting a tan instead of a burn. Nothing causes dry skin faster than sunburn.

• Choose a sunscreen with as few chemicals as possible. Studies have shown that some of the chemicals in sunscreens can actually cause you to burn - especially when they’re slathered on over and over. Scientists also suspect that traditional, chemical-laden sunscreens could cause skin cancer. A natural dry skin care treatment with sunscreen added is best; it does double duty - helps prevent dry skin while also protecting your skin from the sun.

• Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Dry skin care has internal and external elements; fresh fruits and vegetables are about the best internal treatment you can get. It’s also best to choose organic produce. Pesticides and other chemicals tend to dehydrate the body – the last thing you need when you’re also spending time in the drying sun.

• Rinse off quickly when you’ve been swimming – especially if you’re in the ocean or a swimming pool. The salt in the ocean is drying, as is the chlorine in the pool.

• Take short showers using lukewarm water. Long, hot showers cause dry skin. This is important for dry skin care throughout the year.

• Exfoliate once a week. Slough off those dead skin cells using a natural, gentle exfoliant like almond meal and honey. Almonds are rich in skin-friendly vitamins like A, B1, B2, B6 and E. When almonds are ground into meal, they also retain a lot of the natural oils. Mix two tablespoons of almond meal with one tablespoon of honey, smooth onto your skin and leave for 5 or 10 minutes. Then rub it in thoroughly, and wash off gently. Do this once a week for smooth, vibrant skin.

• For pretty feet in sandals, you can also use the almond-honey exfoliant. Scrub your feet all over, paying special attention to your heels, and they’ll smooth right out. Again, once a week should be enough. If you need something a little more aggressive the first time you work on your feet, try a pumice stone.

• Wear as little makeup as possible, and try to use a natural brand. Get it at the health food store – most of the products in supermarkets or drug stores have some natural ingredients, but they contain harsh, drying chemicals as well.

• Always wear a natural lotion for dry skin. Choose a non-greasy product that doesn’t block the pores.

Don’t let dry skin ruin your summer. Dry skin care is easy and refreshing. And your skin will look and feel great!