Summer means it's time to break out the sunscreen and indulge in some delicious chocolate. While these two things may seem like an unlikely pair, they actually have more in common than you might think. Both chocolate and sunscreen can help protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, leaving you feeling happy and healthy all summer long.
So, forget about your beach bod and focus on protecting your skin and satisfying your sweet tooth, because chocolate and sunscreen are the only two things you really need this summer.
Does Chocolate Really Benefit Your Skin?
Yes! Would we lie to you?! Chocolate really does have amazing skincare properties, which is why you’ll find a variety of skincare products that contain cocoa. To find out why you should consider chocolate a staple part of your beauty routine, take a look at some of the skincare benefits on offer:
Protection from UV Rays
If you’re staying at home this summer, you might assume that you don’t need to worry about protecting your skin from the sun because, well, sunny days aren’t really synonymous with the UK, are they? But, a lack of sunshine doesn’t mean that UV rays aren’t damaging your skin, so don’t let cloudy, overcast days stop you from slapping on the sunscreen (and scoffing some chocolate).
Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, which helps to protect the skin from pollution and UV rays. In fact, cocoa contains more antioxidants than green tea, which shows just how effective it can be at protecting your skin.
Repair Sun Damage
If your skin is already showing signs of sun damage, don’t be dismayed. Chocolate can help improve the appearance of UV damage via naturally occurring theobromine. This acts in a similar way to caffeine and increases blood flow under your skin. In turn, this speeds up cell regeneration, which helps to revive skin-damaged complexions and gives you a youthful glow. What better excuse to enjoy some extra artisan vegan chocolate UK this summer?
Zap Spots and Blemishes
If you thought acne was consigned to your teenage years, think again. Spots, pimples and blemishes can appear at any age and may even become more frequent as you get older (bet you wish we did lie to you now…). Fortunately, your favourite sweet treat can help to combat breakouts due to the zinc content of cocoa.
Zinc helps to regulate some of the hormones that can contribute to acne, as well as control the skin’s oil production. This can address the cause of spots and zits, reducing the frequency and severity of breakouts.
If you’re worried that lactose could cause flare ups or worsen acne, opt for vegan or dairy free chocolate. With vegan chocolate buttons or dairy free dark chocolate, for example, you can snack on a delicious treat and improve your complexion in the process!
Enjoy Smoother Skin
Cocoa contains a wide variety of minerals, many of which have a positive impact on the skin’s functionality and appearance. Sodium, potassium and calcium accelerate cell renewal and promote the growth of new cells, for example, and you’ll find plenty of these super-minerals in chocolate.
Many people are shocked at the skincare benefits chocolate offers but, really, we shouldn’t be surprised. After all, is there anything chocolate doesn’t improve?
5 Ways to Enjoy Chocolate this Summer
If you’re worried that hot temperatures will turn your favourite chocolate bar or vegan chocolate sweets into a melted mess, don’t panic! There are plenty of ways to incorporate chocolate into your summer menu, including:
1. Chocolate Milk
When it’s hot out and you’re craving an ice-cold drink, what’s better than oat milk chocolate? Use a whisk or milk frother to make your own milkshake or pour over ice for a cold, refreshing beverage.
2. Chocolate Ice Cream
The ultimate accessory on a summer’s day, you can’t go wrong with chocolate ice cream. If you’re following a vegan or dairy-free diet, there are plenty of varieties available, so don’t worry about missing out.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Bananas
If you want to combine divinely delicious chocolate with one of your five a day, simply melt some chocolate over a pan or in the microwave and dip bananas into the melted goodness. Allow the chocolate-covered bananas to set for a couple of hours and you’re good to go. When the weather really warms up, try putting them in the freezer and make your own chocolate-dipped banana ice pops.
4. Chocolate Mousse
Eaten cold, straight from the fridge, chocolate mousse can be a decadent dessert, a sublime snack or…well, breakfast. With just four ingredients (dark chocolate, egg whites, caster sugar and crème fraiche), you can prep homemade chocolate mousse in a matter of minutes (but you will need to wait 2-3 hours while they set). For a dairy-free alternative, simply substitute regular chocolate for vegan dark chocolate and the eggs for coconut cream and cornflour.
5. Chocolate Bars
Okay, good old-fashioned chocolate bars might not be a seasonal treat but they’re as good in summer as they are in winter! Remember to keep your chocolate stash out of direct sunlight and, if it gets too warm, you can always keep your chocolate bars in the fridge to stop them melting. Simply remove them a little while before you plan to eat them and allow them to return to room temperature for optimal flavour.
Treat Yourself to Something Special this Summer
Whatever your plans are, you can improve them with our sensational chocolate Chapters. Sample the flavour of space with our Astronauts chapter, dine like the Greek Gods or explore our vegan range for a delectable dairy-free bite.
Combining culture and flavour, each of our Chapters tells a story and takes you on an epicurean journey that’s sure to delight. Whether you’re spending the summer traversing new lands, relaxing in familiar surroundings or, most likely, battling the heat as you take on the daily commute, our Chapters will add a little something extra to your summer.