Summer brings sunshine, holidays and outdoor fun, but it also brings heat, sweat, tanning, clogged pores and dehydration. A little extra care during this season can help your skin stay fresh, protected and glowing.
The most important summer skincare rule is never skip sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or above, even when you are indoors or the weather is cloudy. Apply it 20 minutes before stepping out and reapply every two to three hours, especially if you sweat or spend time outdoors.
During summer, the skin tends to become oily and sticky, so choose a lightweight cleanser and wash your face twice a day. Avoid over-washing, as it can strip the skin of natural oils and make it more sensitive. Follow it up with a gentle, oil-free moisturiser. Many people skip moisturiser in summer, but the skin still needs hydration.
Drink plenty of water through the day and include water-rich foods such as cucumber, watermelon, coconut water and citrus fruits in your diet. Hydration from within reflects beautifully on the skin. Also, avoid heavy makeup during the day. Let your skin breathe by using minimal products and opting for non-comedogenic formulas.
Exfoliation once or twice a week helps remove dead skin cells and prevents clogged pores, but avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate sun-exposed skin. After a long day outdoors, soothe your skin with aloe vera gel, rose water mist or a cooling face mask.
Lastly, do not ignore your lips, hands and feet. Use a lip balm with SPF, wear sunglasses, carry a hat or scarf, and keep your body moisturised. With these simple habits, summer skincare can become easy, effective and refreshing.
