Summers are here. Apart from the incessant heat, the summers bring in many skin problems. But there’s no reason to worry. A good skin care routine can deal with most of these problems. In this article, we would discuss summer skin care tips to keep your skin glowing and healthy in summers too.
1. Cleansing
In summers, our skin is prone to sweating and producing more oil. Some people have problem of oiliness only in these months. So, clean your face twice or thrice a day using a mild oil-free cleanser.
- People with oily skin should choose a face wash with salicylic acid. This will unclog pores, reduce oil production and prevent acne break out.
- People with dry skin should avoid harsh foaming cleansers. They remove hydrating lipids from the skin
2. Moisturising
Don’t give up on moisturisers entirely in the summers. You should rather use a gentle oil-free moisturiser. This gives a youthful hydrated glow without greasy look. The best practice in summers is to use a tinted moisturiser having a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This hydrates the skin, provides sun protection and removes the need of using foundation.
3. Sun protection
In summers, you should try to stay indoors between 11AM and 3PM. This the time when sun rays are the strongest and can have an adverse effect on your skin. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you step out in the sun. Always use a sunscreen of SPF at least 30 or more. Re-apply the sunscreen after every 4 hours, particularly after swimming or washing your face. In oily skin, use gel-based non-comedogenic sunscreens.
For extra protection against the sun, physically protect yourself. You can use a wide brimmed hat, lip balm, sunglasses, and long sleeved body covering clothes.
4. Exfoliation
Summer is primetime for buildup of dead facial skin cells that cause dull and uneven complexion. So more than the rest of the year, it’s really important to exfoliate your skin in the summer. Exfoliation removes dead skin and improves blood circulation to the face.
A skin scrub composed of dissolvable granules is recommended. This is better than scrubs containing fruit pits or shells. Do not use scrubs in active acne.
5. Staying hydrated
Your body tends to lose a lot of moisture in the summer, so it’s important to regularly replenish water.
- Drink plenty of water and juices (10 to 12 glasses daily). This not only prevents dehydration and heat stroke, but also keeps your skin soft and moisturised as well.
- Avoid aerated drinks. Also minimise the intake of alcohol and coffee as they reduce the water from your system.
- Drink fresh lime, fresh fruit juices, aam panna (green mango drink) or coconut water to stay hydrated.
6. Balanced diet
Along with all the tips above, don’t forget to beat the heat by eating a balanced diet. This included seasonal fruits and vegetables like: oranges, litchis, berries, watermelon, cucumber, bottle gourd (lauki), ridged gourd (terai), bitter gourd etc.
7. Cooling your skin
Go for a cool shower after excess sweating. This not only freshens you, but also removes oil and unclogs pores, thus decreasing acne breakouts.
Even with all this care, if you get a sunburn, it is important to begin treating it as soon as possible. Immediately take a cool bath. You can also soak a cloth in ice and apply to the sunburnt skin for 5 minutes, followed by a moisturizer. Never exfoliate or use a mask on sunburned skin until the area has healed. In case of severe sunburn, consult a dermatologist.
Dr Monika Misra
Latest posts by Dr Monika Misra (see all)
- Warts – all you need to know - July 8, 2018
- Gray hair – is there any cure? - January 28, 2018
- Chickenpox – myths & facts - July 30, 2017
