Late Summer Blues - Don't Go Hitting The Sunbeds - Sep 09

Leading skin treatment specialist SkinGenesis predicts a rise in people using sunbeds and indulging in junk foods after a disappointing British summer.

As hopes of a late summer quickly fade, skin experts are urging people not to risk their health by turning to sunbeds and comfort foods as a quick pick-me-up.

Peter Beard, director and consultant at SkinGenesis, said: "Autumn is clearly setting in and people's summer holidays might seem like many months ago. As the tan they spent weeks perfecting starts to fade, it can be tempting to head to the tanning salon for that quick fix of UV light."

SkinGenesis is urging people not to succumb to the lure of the sunbed, which was just a few weeks ago categorised by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as 'definitively carcinogenic to humans'.

Peter continued: "It's now common knowledge that sunbeds are dangerous, which is why we want to educate people about the perils of using them. After a holiday in the sun, people incorrectly assume that their skin is 'used to' UV rays, when in reality you are just causing considerably more damage to the skin.

"Junk food and unhealthy snacks can also be tempting at this time of year, which not only affect your skin, but also your health and motivation to do anything."

Peter gives his five top tips to beat the late summer blues and look after your skin:

1. Opt for English Rose

Tans are quickly losing popularity as more and more people in the public eye choose the paler 'English rose' look. Victoria Beckham and Cheryl Cole are just two celebrities who have toned it down and you'll save a fortune on fake tan products.

2. Keep up with the healthy diet

You spent weeks being good and adopting a healthy diet over the summer in a bid to get that perfect beach body - why let all that hard work go to waste? Eating healthily will also ensure that your skin retains the nutrients it needs to withstand the change in seasons too.

3. Get under your skin to tackle existing damage

If you think years of holidaying may have taken its toll on your skin, it may be time to take a closer look. Too much sun can cause fine lines and wrinkles, as well as damaged and pigmented skin. An expert skin analysis can reveal the extent of skin damage and can set you on the right path to regaining a smoother, more youthful complexion.

4. Exercise for a natural glow

The very word 'exercise' can put people off straight away, but it's one of those things that once you start, you might become addicted. Exercise will give you a natural glow and helps the body release hormones called endorphins, which give you that feel good factor - just what you need to beat the late summer blues.

5. Switch your morning coffee for a tasty tea

Herbal and green teas offer excellent feel-good qualities because they're packed full of essential detoxifying minerals and nutrients. Coffee on the other hand may give you the instant kick you crave when you're feeling sleepy in the morning, but it can also leave you craving more caffeine throughout the day, which in large quantities, is not good for the body.

SkinGenesis' free expert skin analysis identifies existing skin damage by revealing the sun's effects via UV photo imaging. It then tests the skin's pH and analyses its moisture content to work out a regime that is right for the individual.

With clinics in Leeds, Manchester and Chester, SkinGenesis can offer skin solutions to people throughout the North and the UK.