Summer is back and it's time to flaunt those cute little dresses and shorts while you hit the beach or the pool. But be sun safe and skin smart before you bare your skin to the sweltering heat, humidity and harsh sun, which cause tanning, pigmentation and sun burn. The skin gets oiler during summer leading to acne.
Prickly heat and fungal infections aren't uncommon either. In addition to following the basic daily skin care regime of cleansing, toning and moisturising, one must also be careful about food and water intake. Of course, sunscreen is totally non- negotiable.
Cleansing
The skin sweats more leading to increased dirt and grime. Wash the face with plain cool water every few hours.
A good soothing cleaning gel helps deep cleanse without stripping away essential natural oils. It also makes the skin look and feel fresh.
Toning and moisturising
Toning helps tighten the pores and prevents spots and pimples. In intense heat, one can refresh the skin even several times a day with a chilled skin tonic.
Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Staying adequately hydrated flushes out the toxins and keeps the skin looking fresh
If the skin is dry or stressed out by constant exposure to air conditioning make sure you apply moisturiser to the skin before heading out. Otherwise apply the moisturiser at night before bed time on a clean face.
Use sun protection
For Indian skin use a broad spectrum sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection and at least SPF 15. If on vacation or outdoors, SPF 30 is highly recommended. Apply it at least 20 minutes before stepping out and reapply every 3-4 hours. Sweat-proof sunscreen- SPF 30 is effective for up to eight hours
The sun's rays are the strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. so limit exposure as much as possible during these hours
Use sunglasses to protect your eyes. Try using an umbrella when you go out.
Use a lip balm with sunscreen to prevent darkening of lips.
Exfoliate
Initially exfoliate gently using micro beads at least once a week to remove all dead cells and flakes. Harsh exfoliation with larger beads can injure the skin and make it sun-sensitive. After 4-6 weekly exfoliations, bring it down to once in two weeks.
Shower tips:
A cold shower cools the body and retains oils and moisture in the skin. Gently pat body dry. Leave some moisture on the skin so that when you apply the moisturiser the skin can absorb it fully and seal it in.
Have a shower twice a day, to feel cool and refreshed
Diet Tips
A light diet is recommended to keep one feeling fresh and hydrated. Foods rich in Vitamin A help protect the skin, while those with abundant Vitamin C help repair sun-damaged skin. These are found in vegetables and fruit including carrots, papaya, black grapes and green leafy vegetables.
Water, freshly squeezed fruit juices, fresh lime water or soda, and salads loaded with plenty of vegetables and fruit are part of an ideal diet
So dress to kill this summer with glowing and radiant skin!
Dr. Sangeeta Amladi is the Medical-Head at Kaya Ltd.
