Skin Care For Summers - by Editor

Right skin care measures should be taken during summers to protect skin from the harsh effects of heat. Read on to find useful tips for taking care of skin during summers.

Summer is the time when your skin requires special care. Our skin which normally looks radiant and healthy in winters can turn dull, blemished and oily in summers. This is because during winter the natural oil present in our skin solidifies. On the other hand in summers, it flows freely. Research studies have indicated that almost 90 percent of skin wrinkles are caused due to sun exposure. The sun rays long- and short-wave ultraviolet rays, or UVA and UVB are capable of penetrating the deepest layers of our skin and damaging the collagen. Collagen is the spongy protein which gives our skin its structure, firmness, and elasticity. Exposure to the sun, humidity, and chlorine can harm our skin in many ways. In addition to developing wrinkles and age spots higher heat and humidity can cause rashes, breakouts, and clogged pores. Those of you who take respite from heat by swimming may not be aware that chlorine dries out your skin and hair. However, do not let summer dampen your spirits. A little effort and personal time devoted towards skin care can keep you healthy even during summers.

Skin Care Tips for Summers

Here are some simple skin care tips which you can easily follow to look after your skin in summers:

Moisturise

- Even though skin may seem to be oily and less dry during summers you must never forget to moisturise. Moisturising is a must for the skin irrespective of weather conditions. During summer you can consider switching over to a light, water-based moisturizing lotion for face and body instead of using the winter lotion.

Sun Protection

- For those of you who are exposed to sunlight for more than an hour or two it is essential to choose sunscreen which provides broad-spectrum protection. This kind of sunscreen is capable of providing protection against ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. The sunscreen lotion must have SPF of at least 15. It is important to apply sunscreen cream or lotion liberally before you step out in the sun. Do not forget to reapply every two hours thereafter and after swimming.

Makeup

- It is best to make minimum use of make up during summers. In case makeup is unavoidable, make use of a liquid foundation that is light, has mineral-based powder with a minimum SPF of at least 15. Instead of making use of blush cream during summers opt for a natural-looking glow which you can get with a touch of bronzing powder. Similarly in summers instead of lipstick the use of tinted gloss is recommended by skin care specialists. When you go swimming do not forget to make use of waterproof mascara and water resistant sunscreen lotion.

Exfoliating

- Sun, sweat, sand and sunscreen lotions simply increase the amount of dead skin cells that get accumulated on your face and body. It is important to get rid of these with the help of an exfoliating scrub or loofah at home. Exfoliation is recommended couple of times a week.

Skin Rash

- Extreme heat and humidity can result in heat rash, especially if you are overdressed or prone to sweat a lot. Hence it is important to keep the body cool and stay dry by not wearing clothes which brush against or irritate your skin. Majority of heat rashes go away on its own. However, if the rash is accompanied by swelling, dizziness, nausea, or difficulty in breathing it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Skin care in summer may take up a little of your personal time and efforts. You must also make conscious attempts to minimise sun damage by not spending too much time outdoors in intense summer sun. Remember even the best sunscreen and antioxidant skin care can only do so much unless you take it upon yourself to practice skin-saving behaviour which is sun safe.

How to take care of skin during summers? Which home remedies should be followed during summers for taking care of skin? How to prevent skin problems in summers? To share your experiences, views, and tips, click here.