We all know that summers are not so skin friendly. Adequate skin care is a must to curb the summer heat from striking your sensitive skin.Did you know that your skin is one of the first to bear the brunt of summer sun and skin irritants that lead to problems like sun tan, sun-burn, skin-sensitivity, heat rash and eruptions like pimples and acne? Well now you do.
Here are some words of wisdom from our skin expert Shahnaz Husain, which will make your skin feel ready to face the heat. Follow these simple remedies and let that radiance say it out loud. After all, your skin deserves to be pampered and loved to beat the scorching summer heat.
SUMMER LOVE #01: SUNSCREEN
- For sun-sensitive skin and for general sun-protection in summer, apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before sun-exposure.
- If you happen to be in the sun for more than an hour, re-apply the sunscreen. A sunscreen with SPF 20 is adequate for most skins.
- For sensitive skin, use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.
- Remember to apply sunscreen while swimming in an open pool, holidaying by the sea or in the hills.
- Reflective surfaces, like water and snow actually increase the effects of UV rays. For oily skin, a sunscreen gel may be better.
SUMMER LOVE#02: NATURAL SANDALWOOD
Sandalwood paste can easily be applied on the skin to soothe inflammatory and eruptive conditions during spring and summer. It also helps to relieve itching. Sandalwood is extremely versatile and suits all skin types. It is a powerful antiseptic and increases the skin’s moisture retention ability too.
- Mix sandalwood with a little rose water and apply.
- In case of excessive itching and redness, it is best to consult a doctor.
SUMMER LOVE#03: TULSI OR BASIL
Modern research has revealed that it helps to purify the air, apart from its soothing and curative actions on the skin. It has germicidal and antiseptic properties and also helps to soothe rashy and eruptive conditions. Neem and Mint (pudina) leaves can also be used for such conditions.
SUMMER LOVE#04: SKIN TONER
Toners cool the skin and restore the normal balance. They also unclog the pores and add radiance. Rose water is a natural toner and coolant.
- Keep a small bowl of rose skin tonic, or rose water, in the refrigerator. This way, it is chilled and ready for use.
- Wipe the skin several times a day with it.
- Use cotton wool dipped in chilled rose water as eye pads. It removes fatigue and is most refreshing.
- Look for a matte moisturizer, or oil-free day cream in summer, especially for oily and combination skin.
SUMMER LOVE#05: FACIAL SCRUBS
Facial scrubs also help to keep pores unclogged, leaving the skin clear and bright.
- Mix ground almonds or rice powder with yogurt and add a pinch of turmeric.
- Avoid heavy moisturizers and creams for oily and combination skin.
- Carry wet tissues in your handbag during the day, to cleanse, wipe and refresh the skin.
SUPER TIP: Nighttime cleansing is a must, to remove sweat, oil, dirt and pollutants that have deposited on the skin during the day. This helps to reduce oiliness and protects the skin from pimples.
SUMMER LOVING #06: DIY HOME REMEDIES
- Mix sandalwood with a little rose water and apply on the entire area. Wash your face with plain water after 20 to 30 minutes.
- Add 2 drops of Tea Tree Oil to two tablespoons of water or rose water. Apply this on pimples and acne.
- Mix one tablespoon of Fuller Earth (Multani Mitti) with rose water. Apply the paste on affected areas and wash it off after 15 to 20 minutes.
- Apply fresh Aloe Vera gel to the sunburnt area as it soothes and heals the skin and also helps to recover faster. Aloe Vera contains zinc, which is actually anti-inflammatory.
- Place chilled cucumber slices on sun- burn or dab on some cucumber juice with the help of a cotton ball. You can even grate the chilled cucumber and apply it on the sunburns to reduce the inflammation.
- Apply coconut water on the skin and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes. It also helps to remove tan and brighten the skin over a period of time.
- Apply Papaya pulp on the skin like a mask and wash it off after 20 minutes. Papaya contains enzymes and helps to soften and cleanse the dead skin cells.