Summers in India have always been intense, but this summer seems particularly hot. Whether it’s sunburns, rashes, dehydration, or acne breakouts, it’s to no one’s surprise that the summer isn’t particularly kind to one’s skin. This season, focus on skincare practices that help to soothe and nourish your skin. Here are 10 tips to help you start:
Use Sunscreen Constantly
Choose the right sunscreen and apply sunscreen at least twice or thrice a day. Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to block UV rays. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and hands. Don’t forget areas like the tops of your feet and the back of your neck. Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before going outside to give it time to absorb into your skin. If you’re wearing makeup, choose creams and foundations with a built-in SPF to give you extra protection.
Avoid the Sun during Peak Hours
Seek shade during the hours when the sun’s UV rays are strongest, specifically between 11 AM and 3 PM. Staying out of the sun during peak hours can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful UV rays, lowering your risk of sunburn, premature ageing, and skin cancer. If you are outdoors, seek shade as much as possible and reapply sunscreen constantly. Plan your outdoor activities according to the sun’s peak hours. Avoid direct exposure during this time as much as possible.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is essential for healthy skin, especially during the summer when the heat can lead to increased water loss through sweat. To ensure this, drink 8 glasses of water every day. Dehydrated skin can lead to acne breakouts and clogged pores. It also makes your skin more susceptible to UV rays and pollution. Staying hydrated helps regulate your body temperature, which is important for avoiding heat-related illnesses and keeping your skin cool and comfortable. Carry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day to remind yourself to drink water regularly. If it helps you, set a reminder at appropriate intervals to remind yourself to stay hydrated.
Wash your Face Regularly
In the summer, dead cells can accumulate on your skin due to sweat and exposure to dust. It is important to wash your face regularly to remove these impurities. Washing your face can help control excess oil production, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), where oil glands are more active. Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for a gel cleanser that can help control oil. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. While washing your face is important, too much can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Wash your face twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.
Avoid Oil-based Products
While moisturizing is essential, using oil-based products in the summer can lead to clogged pores and increased acne breakouts. Instead, opt for products that hydrate the skin without adding excess oil. Products with Hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and Vitamin C are a good way to improve skin health. Hyaluronic acid is a lightweight, hydrating ingredient that is ideal for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, as it hydrates without adding oil.
Go Easy on the Makeup
If you’re wearing a lot of makeup products on your face, the humidity and heat can cause them to melt. This will lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Go for more natural makeup looks. Use lighter, oil-free formulas and allow your skin to breathe. Always remember to remove your makeup before bed to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Use a gentle makeup remover followed by a cleanser to thoroughly cleanse your skin.
Wear Cotton and Light-coloured clothes
Loose clothing allows air to circulate your skin, keeping you cooler and reducing the risk of heat rash and other skin irritations. Tight clothing, on the other hand, can trap sweat and bacteria against your skin, leading to irritation and breakouts. Synthetic fabrics can sometimes cause skin allergies and irritation, especially in hot and humid conditions. Opting for natural, breathable material like cotton can help reduce the risk of skin reactions. Light colours, such as white, beige, or pastels, can help reflect sunlight and keep you cooler. By making these simple choices, you can help protect your skin and stay comfortable during the hot summer months. You can pair your clothes with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to further protect your skin.
Maintain a Balanced, Nutritious Diet
Your diet can also impact your skin’s health. Incorporating certain foods into your diet can help protect your skin from damage caused by the sun and other environmental factors. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Eat a lot of whole grains which are rich in fibre and antioxidants. Incorporate protein in your diet. Limit processed and sugary foods, which can worsen acne.
Protect your Lips
The skin on your lips is thinner and contains less pigment to protect cells from the sun’s damaging rays. Hence, it is more vulnerable to the sun’s UV rays. So, it is important to also take steps to hydrate and protect your lips. Use a Lip Balm with SPF to protect your lips from sunburn. Look for a lip balm that contains SPF 30 or higher and reapply it throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking. Also, avoid matte lipsticks as they can be drying. While it is natural to want to lick your lips when they are dry, this can make them more chapped. Saliva contains enzymes that can break down the skin on your lips, leading to further dryness and irritation. Instead, use a hydrating lip balm to keep your lips moisturized and protected.
Take Cool Showers
Hot showers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Instead, opt for lukewarm or cool showers to help soothe your skin and reduce the risk of heat-related skin issues. If you’ve spent too much time in the sun and have sunburned skin, cool showers can also help reduce redness and inflammation.
