New Delhi: With mercury reaching its all-time high, one simply can’t ignore the humidity accompanied with intense, scalding and parched summer afternoon wind. It can damage the skin if preventive measures and steps aren’t taken in time.
The skin can get affected by tons of sweat and result in rashes and clogged pores. In fact, for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin, sweat is the perfect recipe for disaster. Similarly, one can also suffer dehydration and sunburn during summers.
Dr Chytra V Anand, founder, Kosmodermaclinics list key things that one should add to their summer skincare regimen and have a smooth, supple and healthy skin even on the hottest of days:
SPF is the king, treat it accordingly:
Sunscreen protects the skin against tanning and makes sure that it doesn’t absorb any harmful radiation. It is crucial to always use sunscreen with 30+ SPF. Also, while applying sunscreen, don’t forget your hands, feet, ears and lips. In case of heavy perspiration or if you wash your face and hands, reapply sunscreen immediately. If not, make it a routine to touch up sunscreen every two hours. It is a misconception that one doesn’t need sunscreen while staying indoors, so apply it even when you are planning to stay inside.
Accessories to strengthen your protection:
The eyes and the skin around them are extremely sensitive. By wearing good quality sunglasses, people can protect their eyes from the sun’s hazardous rays. Another such accessory is a wide-brimmed hat that can protect the wearer from over-exposure. Overexposure to the sun can cause wrinkles and damage collagen and elastin.
Include lighter products, ditch oil-based ones:
In summers, your skin is already oily due to sweat. Therefore, you must sidestep from milk, cream or oil-based cleansers and use gentle foam-based products. These gentle cleansers can have cooling ingredients like Aloe Vera and Cucumber to give your skin much-needed freshness. Albeit, if you have exceptionally dry skin, mix both kinds of cleansers (cream + gentle foam) and get an invigorating cleansing experience. Also using oil in summers can block pores and cause infections and comedones (blackheads or whiteheads). Instead, use body lotions that are completely sweat-free and pleasant smelling.
Exfoliation is the perfect weapon:
By harnessing the power of a gentle and chemical-free exfoliator, one can easily get rid of blocked pores and reduce pigmentation and oil production to a certain extent. One should exfoliate the skin at least once or twice a week during summers.
Vitamin C is nothing short of a pot of gold:
Vitamin C serum can strengthen your skin’s tolerance to exposure, remove tanning and reduce acne or skin inflammation. It also provides sun protection, help treat hyper-pigmentation and boost collagen production. Thus, it is a must have to include ‘Vitamin C’ in your skincare routine.
So, this summer, take the easy yet efficient road towards beautiful, healthy and smooth skin by simply making a few small changes in your routine. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and drink atleast eight litres of water every day. In addition, include as many seasonal fruits and vegetables in your diet.
