Summer is almost here. You've dusted off the flip-flops and have been working hard to get your body bikini-ready. The summer sun might give you a mental lift, but the changing seasons can wreak havoc on your skin. It's time to switch gears, shove that winter skin regimen to the side and start applying the sunscreen -- and liberally! But don't toss that moisturizer to the side!

It might seem like an oxymoron, but hot and humid weather can actually cause your skin to dry out. Exposure to hot weather can suck the moisture right out of your skin. It's important to apply and reapply moisturizer (with a high amount of SPF) so you don't lose too much water. Over time, extended exposure to the sun can cause your skin to look dry, damaged, even leathery. Continued use of moisturizer can help to prevent this from happening to you.

Let's talk a little about sunscreen. You've heard it over and over. But it can't be stressed enough. Sunscreen can make the difference between a long, healthy life and one cut short by skin cancer. Here's a sobering statistic, according to the Skin Care Foundation: More than 3.5 million cases of skin cancer in two million people are diagnosed annually. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. It only takes a few minutes a day to lather on a protective coating of moisturizing sunscreen. If you're concerned about getting a tan, don't worry. Even with a higher SPF, you will tan. You just won't burn. And that is the key.

Treat sunburn immediately. There are a number of home remedies, but the easiest method is to apply lotion or gel with aloe vera. This helps to alleviate the burn by cooling down the skin. You should also stay out of the sun for a few days until the burn subsides. There is no shame in spending time in the shade!

With the changing seasons comes a new crop of fruits and vegetables. Not only are they delicious, but they boast their own specific health benefits. To energize your skin, apply a facial mask using strawberries, peppermint or cucumbers. Kiwi, lemon and grapefruit are fruits rich in vitamin C, which is very good for skin. For a quick, refreshing mask, mix honey, cold milk and lemon juice and apply to your face for 30 minutes.

To achieve that radiant glow, your skin needs to be healthy from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water will keep your skin hydrated. Regular exercise increases circulation and rids the body of toxins. Boosted circulation means more oxygen to the skin. And again, replenish your fluids after a workout!

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