If you’re a woman over 40, you have to take extra special care of your skin during the summer season.

Why?

Because when you reach middle age your skin's natural barrier is no longer as thick as it was in your 20s. 

This means you need to be extra diligent in applying sunblock, and follow these essential practices:

1. Apply at least SPF 30 - Nothing less than SPF 30 sunblock will do. And remember - "water-resistant" doesn't mean waterproof. Make sure you reapply sunblock after swimming or sweating to keep the UV rays at bay.

2. Apply enough - Studies show most people apply only 25% of the recommended amount of sunblock. Here’s an easy rule to follow: apply a full teaspoon of cream to your face and neck alone—then repeat multiple times a day.

3. Apply before you step outside - Studies show sunscreen needs 15-20 minutes to soak into your skin before sun exposure. Applying it when you're already outside is like trying to wax a car that’s already started rusting.

Extra tips for peak sun protection beyond sunblock.

1. Switch to lighter, oil-free moisturizers - Heavy creams that worked wonders in winter will clog your pores and cause breakouts in summer.

2. Incorporate gentle exfoliation 2-3 times weekly - Exfoliating removes the buildup of sunscreen, sweat, and dead skin cells that can build up even more in the hot summer months and dull your complexion.

3. Add a hydrating facial mist to your purse or beach bag - These provide instant hydration to your skin without disturbing the sunscreen you’ve already applied.

4. Wear a wide-brimmed hat (minimum 3-inch brim) - UV-blocking sunglasses and UPF-rated clothing can also reduce your UV exposure by up to 50%.

And here's a key piece of advice to protect against UV sun damage EVERYBODY should follow…

The hours between 11 AM and 3 PM are when the UV rays are strongest and when your skin is most vulnerable to damage. 

For this reason, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. Or, if you can’t avoid being outdoors, have places where you can cool off.

Now, all the tips I’ve shared in this article are about protecting your skin on the surface.

You also need to take steps to restore your skin’s natural defenses against UV sun damage on the inside. 

This is why I share a little known Peruvian beauty secret with all my patients.

This includes a former NFL cheerleader, who used it to reverse decades of sun damage and save a fortune on surgery she no longer needed.

In fact, the results were so stunning, she said it was “like a beauty and health makeover from the inside out.”

Try the Peruvian beauty secret for yourself