5 tips for Body Positivity this summer

Here at Salcura, we all know that the journey towards self-love can be a rocky road, especially during the summer months. Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or acne can make some people feel self-conscious about the appearance of their skin or worried about dressing according to the weather. So, we thought we’d put a little PSA out there with some tips that are so important to remember!

1. You Are NOT Alone!

In this modern world of social media where people want to put forward only the best appearances and the best versions of themselves, it can be so easy to feel like you’re the only one struggling with self-consciousness, especially regarding skin issues. We’ve spent far too much time scrolling Instagram and seeing the perfectly made-up faces of beauty influencers, so here are some hard facts to combat those feelings of isolation.

If you’re worried about acne, you’re not alone. 80% of people will deal with acne to some degree at some point in their lives, so there’s no question others around you will be feeling the same way you do. Around 3.5 million GP consultations happen every year specifically to deal with acne in the UK alone. That’s nearly 10 thousand every single day!

Beyond that, estimates suggest that 15 million people in the UK could be dealing with Eczema, 2.2% of the population suffer from Psoriasis and 1 in 10 people are affected by Rosacea! Much more than you might have thought, right? Beyond that, it is estimated that up to 50% of pregnant women get Melasma AND around 7 hundred thousand people in the UK suffer from Vitiligo. Everyone’s dealing with something!

As more and more awareness is brought to skincare and education grows around these condition, there’s a much larger chance, these days, that people will be familiar with what your skin looks like, if they even notice at all!

2. The Sun Could Actually Help (as long as you protect yourself)

We hear a lot of talk about wearing SPF daily to help combat harmful UV rays but, the truth is, a bit of exposure to the sun can actually help your skin. Now, everyone is different, so this doesn’t apply to absolutely everyone, but for a lot of people out there, it can do a great deal. Sunlight triggers the synthesis of Vitamin D and increases circulation and perspiration which, when well-managed, can actually help to flush toxins and dirt from out of your skin and pores, leaving you looking fresh and clean, not to mention the fact that flaunting your beautiful self will do wonders for your self-esteem!

Do bear in mind, however, that excessive sun exposure can cause damage, so be sure to wear a natural SPF that works with your skin when you’re out and about and enjoy the sun in moderation too.

3. Get Inspired!

We love seeing the real trend on social media toward body positivity, realistic body image and showing that everyone’s skin is beautiful! With that in mind, here’s a couple of our favourite Insta profiles to check out, to encourage you if you’re going through a down patch, You’re not alone!

1. @acne._positivity: It’s in the name! Thalia is all about spreading positivity around acne, be it with tips on how to manage it or just about feeling beautiful in your own skin.
2. @psofar_psogood: Ellie, from London, documents her journey through life with Psoriasis. It’s all about embracing #leopardspots!
3. @becca.rosynose: A blogger with acne and rosacea, focusing on mental health and empowering others.
4. @nicolaljohnston: Eczema sufferer and encourager, focused on sensitive skincare, help and advice.

All beautiful ladies with so many useful and encouraging tips to share!

4. Wear Clothes That Make You Feel Comfortable and Beautiful

Wearing cool, soft, breathable clothes can not only help your skin – it can also be amazing for your self-esteem. There is no reason to cover up your beautiful skin, unless, of course, you want to – wear the things that make you feel good! They say you should dress for the body you have, and your body is beautiful! Make sure you flaunt it!

5. Focus On Your Mental Health

We know it’s easier said than done, but a healthy mindset is such a huge key in living a healthy life and embracing your gorgeous body. Enjoy the wonderful things this season has to offer! Bask in the sunshine, feel the warmth on your face (when it decides to show up), enjoy the great outdoors, hang out with friends, have barbecues in the garden and eat the food and drinks you enjoy. Stressing about your skin usually makes things worse, so try not to worry about it and remember what a wonderful, inspiring, beautiful person you are! If you’re having a day, however, where your skins flaring up and you’re feeling down, that’s okay too! Keep your head up and embrace every day with the radiance that everyone else sees in you. No matter what stage of skincare you’re currently at, you’re already beautiful!