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We’ve all been warned about the hazards of too much sun exposure. In fact, some experts would have us slather our skin in sunscreen even on a cloudy day. Although it’s wise to use protection in the sun – at least between 11 and 2 when it’s riding high – you definitely don’t want fear of the sun to keep you away from the beach’s many other benefits. Going to the beach is among the healthiest activities around and, when it comes to natural skin care, it’s hard to beat.

What can going to the beach do for your skin? Here’s what Mother Nature has to offer:

- Sea Algae: Often used as an ingredient in natural skin care products, sea algae nourishes and hydrates the skin, increases blood circulation and improves skin elasticity.

- Sand: Believe it or not, a derivative of sand called dimethicone is also used in many hair and skin care products. Dimethicone is derived from silicone – which is extracted from rocks and sand – and is used in skin care products to soften and smooth the skin, lock in moisture and give your skin a silky feel. Sand is also a great exfoliant: a walk on the beach beautifies the feet.

- Salt: You may have noticed the infusion of skin care products, especially in health food stores, containing salt. They’re usually scrubs containing coarse sea salt and natural oils. People suffering from acne and other skin disorders have reported improvement within hours of swimming in the ocean – and the natural salts of the sea are the reason. Mineral salt baths have been used for centuries to help with skin problems and other conditions.

- Negative ions: Do you remember that peaceful feeling you get when you’re in the woods or by a waterfall? That because running water, trees and other natural elements produce negative ions. According to experts, as we inhale negative ions and they reach our bloodstream, they increase serotonin and help relieve stress, elevate our mood and boost our energy. Combinating sun, sea algae, sand, salt water with a stress-free day is like a day at the spa – and your skin will reap the benefits.

One word of caution: if you’re concerned about pollutants in the water, it’s a good idea to avoid swimming in the ocean for a few days after a very heavy rain. Particles in the air wind up in the water, and it takes a few days to diffuse them. You should also try using a shielding lotion: A good shielding lotion forms a bond with the outer protective layer of the skin to keep out chemicals. In fact, heavy rain or not, a shielding lotion is always a good idea. Protecting your skin from household chemicals and environmental pollutants is a vital part of good skin care.

So, there you have it – four good reasons to go to the beach. Top off your day in the sun with natural skin care products and you should look and feel pretty good! But don’t forget to use natural sunscreen if you’re out there at mid-day. And don’t forget the shielding lotion to keep out harmful chemicals and pollutants.

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