Take care of your skin this summer

Summer has arrived and the temperatures are soaring by the day. While we try to spend more time indoors to avoid the excessive heat, our skin needs a bit more attention. After all, too much exposure to the sun has adverse effects on the skin in the long run. Also, what we eat and drink during this season affects our skin radiance.

Here are a few tips to treat your skin better this summer:

Shades

For once you realise the importance of trees (and high rises as well) and try to walk in shade. But your eyes still have to bear the heat! Carry a pair of sunglasses every time you step out in the sun. Not only do sunglasses protect your eyes from the strong ultraviolet rays but they also help the sensitive skin around the eyes.

Sunblock / Sunscreen / Umbrella

Sunscreen and sunblock lotions are the most essential skincare products during summers. They prevent your skin from blemishes, sunburn and skin ageing.

While the huge array of these skincare brands might tempt you, don't just get carried away while picking up a sunscreen / sunblock tube. While some brands have UVA (ultraviolet-A) blocking agents, others have UVB (ultraviolet-B). The ones with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 take 15 times longer for the sun to affect your skin as compared to when you don't wear a sunscreen. Lotions with SPF 30 offer more protection and fall under the sunblock category.

Apply the lotion / cream leniently 15 – 30 minutes before stepping out in the sun. Reapply every three hours if you have to stay in the sun. Also use an umbrella whenever you go out.

Tan and Blemishes

To get rid of tan, apply lemon juice with curd. You can apply a paste of four parts of milk with one part of honey and two parts of lemon juice, leave it for 15 minutes and wash it off with cold water.

Remove skin blemishes by applying watermelon juice on the affected area. Wash it off with water after 15 minutes.

Skin Radiance

Don't let your skin lose its radiance to the summer sun. Wash your face at regular intervals. There are several home remedies to revive the glow of your skin. Rubbing a slice of tomato on your skin or applying grated cucumber or ripe papaya on your face can work wonders.

Hands and Feet

Do not neglect your hands and feet during the hot weather. Regularly clean and exfoliate them. An occasional pedicure and manicure can be very helpful.

Eat and Drink Right

To avoid dehydration and make up for excessive perspiration during summers, drink plenty of water. Indulge in seasonal fruits like grapes, berries, watermelon and papaya. Consume moderately cooked fresh vegetables and include leafy veggies, beetroot, tomato and cucumber in your diet. Avoid too much of spicy food.

Clothing

Avoid silks and nylons during summers. Also, let your dark-coloured clothes rest in the wardrobe for a while. It is a known fact that lighter shades help your skin stay cool and refreshed.