Summer is a season for outings, picnics, and ice creams. But it is also a season of dry heat and the harsh sun. Coupled with dust, pollution, and sweat, summer becomes a trying time for the skin. Keeping skin healthy and glowing in summer needs some work and care.

In this article, we are listing out some tips for taking care of the skin during summer, i.e., how to achieve the perfect summer skin, to prevent it from breaking out, drying up, or tanning too much.

Dr. Niketa Sonavane, a renowned dermatologist in Mumbai, says, “Hydration is the first and foremost skincare tip that everyone must consciously follow. Since we sweat a lot during summer, making up for all that fluid loss is important. I recommend drinking water at regular intervals, along with adding fresh fruits, juices, and soups to your diet. This will replenish the water lost through sweating. Another tip is to increase the number of antioxidants in your diet. Go for fresh fruits and vegetables, juices, wine, or black coffee over regular coffee. Antioxidant capsules are available in the market too.”

Another tip for healthy summer skin, she says, is to moisturize the skin on a regular basis. “A lot of my patients believe that the skin only requires moisturization in the winter. But that is not true. Summer affects the skin equally, and hence, a good moisturizer and sunscreen are a must! If you have oily skin, you can opt for a water-based formula over a cream-based one. There are a lot of options in sunscreen as well. Dermatologists should also prescribe sunscreens that patients find comfortable. Even individuals can choose from a variety of lightweight, tinted sunscreens that don’t feel oily or leave a white sheen on the face. Today, sunscreen is also becoming available in the capsule form (containing Polypodium leucomotos) for those who do not like using creams. You should talk to your dermatologist in this regard.” She continues, “Just like the day, hydrating the skin at night is also important. Use night creams that are lightweight and comfortable, so that your skin can breathe at night. Heavy creams can clog the pores. Likewise, if you apply the night cream over a light layer of moisturizer, it stays on better and works more effectively.”

It is also important to wash your face on a regular basis, says Dr. Sonavane, “However, you must take care not to over-wash because it can cause the skin to dry out. And another vital thing to remember is, never wash the face with plain water, especially if you are coming from outside. Plain water does not remove the build-up of dirt, sweat, and grime on the face. That needs a mild face wash for effective cleansing. Plain water will push the dirt further into your skin and clog the pores. And always, always wash your face before going to bed.

There are a variety of face washes available in the market. If you want to get rid of the acne on your face, then go for a wash with salicylic acid. This also controls the oil build-up. On the contrary, mature skin does well with a face wash that has glycolic acid. It is helpful to stimulate the skin and combat wrinkles.”

So let’s summarize

Hydrate! Don’t skip out on drinking water, fresh fruit juices, and soups. Don’t forget the fresh fruits and veggies too.
Include more antioxidants in your diet. Opt for fruits, wines, juices, black coffee, and even supplements if you need.
Never forget to moisturize and use adequate sunscreen. Go for brands that are lightweight, comfortable, and absorb into the skin quickly.
When using a night cream, preferably apply it atop a moisturizer. Never use too much of it, give the skin a chance to breathe.
Try Home remedies for glowing skin like turmeric, honey, and olive oil, etc.
Always use a face wash for cleaning the face. Never use plain water. The face wash should neither be mild nor harsh; there are a variety of non-soap options as well.
Acne – Salicylic acid. Mature skin – Glycolic acid.
Don’t step out in the harsh sunlight. If you have to go out between 11 am to 4 pm, be sure to cover yourself. Wear a light overcoat, carry an umbrella, wear sunglasses, and thin socks as well. This will reduce the risk of sunburns, tanning, and other harmful effects the sun has on the skin.
Use Aloe vera gel for moisturizing your skin, it unclogs the pores and softens the skin.

Source: Healthy Summer Skin Tips by Dr. Niketa Sonavane.