However, the sun can be just as dangerous as it is beautiful, so it’s certainly important to take steps to protect your skin before you head outside.

First and foremost, utilizing some sort of tanning lotion or sunblock is vital. “You should always use an SPF over 15,” Blake Budnik, co-owner of Fresh & Co. Salon and Spa on Lake Ave. in Saratoga Springs, said. “It’s very important, whether it’s a cloudy day or not, since a cloudy day can be just as much sun.” Budnik says this is especially true of children, due to their skin being more sensitive to sunlight than an adult’s.

Budnik also states that exfoliation of the skin is very important, as well as the use of a good skin care regimen. “You need to cleanse, tone, put a mask on, hydrate, use SPF treatments, and anything else that is important.”

While most of these steps are more likely to be followed by women, skin care should be at the top of the list for most outdoorsmen as well. “Men just don’t normally take as good care of their skin as women do, so they have a shorter amount of steps…most just shave and consider that cleaning their face.” Budnik said that men should use a cleanser or moisturizer during shaving in order to improve their skin and better protect it.

As for those who don’t mind getting a little color when they head outside or to the beach, Budnik also recommends using soft tanners to get a great summer look. “You should also exfoliate and cleanse [before using it]…make sure you don’t have any moisture on your skin.” She also states that soft tanners are no substitute for sunblock, so an SPF should always be used.

However, lotions and creams aren’t the only things that can help your skin in the summer months. Budnik also recommends exercising, drinking lots of water, and eating healthy, all year round, which does a tremendous job with taking care of one’s skin. “The sun’s not a bad thing. A lot of skin care professionals say to keep out of it, but as long as you are being protected, you’ll be fine.”

Fresh & Co. was opened for business in 2007 by Budnik, owner of a skin care store, and her childhood friend Jamie Farry, owner of a hair salon. “There’s nobody else I’d rather go into business with,” said Budnik. “We’re both very motivated; we both have the same taste, the same ideas, and the same goals.” 

The salon offers a multitude of services, including hair care, skin care, facials, body wraps, massages, eyelash extensions, hair treatments, relaxation, and a tranquility room.  The salon is unisex and has customers of all ages and genders. Fresh & Co. is located at 18 Lake Ave, and can be reached at 584-0265.