The summer season and holidays means people will spend much more time outdoors and as temperatures rise, taking extra care of one’s skin is crucial.
Here are a few ways to do so:
• Hydration is your go-to
Ensure your body and skin is hydrated from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider switching to a hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.
Add a gentle toner to replenish moisture and a rich moisturiser to lock in the moisture and protect your skin from further environmental elements that can be damaging.
• Scrub away the old
Exfoliation is key to maintaining a healthy skin barrier. However, ensure to do this mindfully – only twice a week.
Opt for a milder exfoliant, such as a chemical exfoliant with glycolic acid or lactic acid, to remove dead skin cells without irritating and do this for your whole body.
• SPF is mandatory
You have to apply a high SPF (30+) to your skin every day, even when the sun is not out. Remember to apply your SPF 20 minutes before going into the sun and reapply every two hours. Limit your time in the sun. Seek shade, wear protective clothing and apply your sunscreen from head to toe.
• Avoid perfumes and fragrances.
Spraying perfumes onto your skin before going into the sun can have adverse effects, causing skin irritation, rashes and blistering. It can be a condition called photodermatitis.
This occurs when certain allergens or chemicals on the skin are activated by UV rays (also called a phototoxic reaction), triggering a severe sunburn, an eczema-like reaction, dermatitis or hives.
• Post-sun care
Pamper your skin with a cool shower to soothe it and remove sweat and sunscreen residue. Follow this up by using a hydrating moisturiser with aloe vera as an ingredient. Embrace anti-oxidants. These are superheroes for your skin. UV rays cause unstable molecules called free radicals, which damage cells in your skin.
When using anti-oxidants like vitamins C and E, you reinforce your skin’s defence against environmental damage and stabilise the free radicals so they don’t damage your skin cells. Anti-oxidants also promote collagen production, keeping your skin youthful and glowing.
