If the sundresses and flip flops are any indication, it's officially summer in Santa Clarita. That means it's time to catch some rays - without also snagging more than our share of sun damage. Keep your skin looking young with these fave blocks, then schedule a turn-back-the-clock treatment if your skin needs a warm-weather refresher.


Best [All-in-One Sunscreen]
Revision's Intellishade SPF 45 is an all-in-one broad spectrum sunscreen and anti-aging moisturizer with sheer mineral tint coverage. It has Vitamin C, green tea and a powerful peptide blend to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brighten the skin and protect against premature aging.

Best [Skin Lightening Peel]
The answer to improving sun-damaged/pigmented skin is the Melanage Skin Lightening Peel. This peel helps improve uneven skin tone, deep pigment issues and melasma. The peel includes a full at-home regimen to continue improving pigment, tone and texture.
Available at Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Care. 254-3686









Best [Laser Treatment]
Laser skin resurfacing can treat not only wrinkles but also sun-damaged skin, growths, acne scarring and other conditions. The precision of these lasers enable doctors to remove tissue precisely, without blood, and to a desired depth. They also tighten collagen fibers. The benefits of laser resurfacing include tightening of the skin, reduced wrinkles and removal of scars and blemishes. Resurfacing can involve a sometimes-lengthy recovery time before skin can be exposed to sun and reddening dissipates. However, the amazing results are worth it, taking decades of age off with just a single procedure. Patients are wowed by the results and their new youthful appearance. See amazing before and after pictures for yourself by visiting www.beverlyhillsphysicians.com or schedule a free consultation to see if you are a good candidate.
Available at Beverly Hills Physicians. 249-4040


Best [Chemical-free Sunblock]
SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50 is a chemical-free 100-percent broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protector that maintains a matte finish even in hot, humid conditions. The formula smoothes skin texture and minimizes the appearance of pores all in a weightless mousse that dries to a powder finish, optimizing makeup application.

Best [Long-lasting Peel]
The ZO 3 Step Peel is a potent stimulating peel that confers longer-lasting benefits beyond the temporary superficial improvements seen with ordinary peels. Designed for acne, melasma, sun damage, fine lines, texture roughness, large pores, and dullness, this peel promotes softer, smoother skin and is suitable for any skin type or color.
Available at DermaCure Medical Aesthetics. 257-8400




This Summer, Wax - then Wait!
The weather's warm and the beach is calling. It's OK to get waxed and hit the towel a few hours later, right? Umm, no. Award-winning wax artist Heather Nelson says that any waxing you want done, whether it's a brow shapeup, elimination of the chinny-chin hairs or a full Brazilian, really needs to be completed a couple of days before you hit the party boat. After an intense sun session, areas to be waxed can be compromised by sunburn or chemical irritation. It's best to wait 48 hours after waxing to expose fresh skin to the sun, as areas waxed are susceptible to irritation and burning more than unwaxed skin. Best to have your relaxing waxing, then find some fun things to do in the next couple of days - a mani-pedi or hair color maybe, or shopping for a new bathing suit! Just keep in mind that you will look and feel better all over if you invest the time in yourself - and don't forget the sunscreen!
WAX by Heather Nelson is located in the
Sola Salons in Santa Clarita. 644-4346