Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Summer is tough on skin anywhere, but the dry and blistering heat, along with intense UV rays, means your barrier is under siege. The heat isn’t just uncomfortable but exhausting. But here’s something most people don’t understand: heat doesn’t just make you sweat; it also takes a major toll on the skin.
If stepping out feels like a group project with the sun and humidity, you aren’t alone. As the weather shifts from warm hugs to these full-blown heat attacks, it’s not just our energy levels; our skin is exhausted, too.
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Here’s what The Healthy Indian Project (THIP), an award-winning health information platform, has to share about summer skin survival. While the common belief is that winter cold is harsh on your skin, the reality is that summer can be equally damaging. Irrespective of whether you are indoors or travelling, your skin is equally vulnerable. High temperatures, pollution, sweat and constant exposure to air conditioning are all harmful.
Skin problems vary with age and skin type. While children have more delicate skin, which may develop rashes easily in summer, senior citizens may face the problem of excessive dry skin due to dehydration. Similarly, adolescent boys and girls may experience excess oil production, acne and tanning due to hormonal changes and sun exposure.
Some important summer skincare tips:
- Gentle cleansing and proper hydration are important for all.
- Add light moisturiser and sunscreen to daily skincare, even for children.
- Breathable cotton clothes are preferable, especially when going out.
- If you have evening parties to attend, be light on make-up and use a cleanser to remove it as soon as you are back home.
- Avoid excessive use of harsh soaps as they can rob your skin of the precious moisture. Instead, use a gentle body wash.
A broad-spectrum sunscreen is your best friend in this season, especially for people who cannot avoid travelling and will face sun exposure. Sunglasses, hats and protective clothing are not fashion statements; they are essential accessories. Remember, protecting your skin from direct sunlight, especially during midday, is extremely important in summer. Direct exposure to UV rays can lead to tanning, sunburn, pigmentation and premature ageing.
Skin problems don’t occur only with sun exposure. People staying indoors need to be careful, too. Long exposures to air conditioners strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, itching, dullness and irritation. Anyone with existing skin conditions such as eczema and sensitive skin may see their conditions get worse during this time.
The secret to managing such situations lies in regular use of hydrating moisturisers, drinking enough water and using gentle skincare products, which can help maintain skin hydration. Avoid overusing antibacterial soaps, alcohol-based skincare products or aggressive exfoliation as these may damage the skin barrier.
Many people pick up skincare tips from social media. Most of these are unscientific. Common myths include skipping sunscreen indoors, using toothpaste on acne, applying lemon directly to the skin or assuming that oily skin does not need moisturisers. These are harmful and aggravate existing skin conditions. Whenever you have a skin condition, it is always advisable to consult a qualified dermatologist rather than relying on viral trends. As temperatures soar, skincare is no longer about beauty or appearance, but a matter of health and protection.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
