Devouring popsicles, soaking in the sun by the pool or cycling to an assortment of city locales — the measured rise in mercury has prompted us to be a little more outdoorsy than usual. March has been treating us well (so far, so good) with a slightly restrained version of the summer sun in the sky accompanied by the sweet yet crisp evening breeze. And one ought to relish these few days of bliss before the celsius scale goes haywire as we inch closer to the hottest few months in the subcontinent.
India endures sweltering heat during the peak summer months (no surprises there) leading to a gamut of body maladies that warrant addressing. But today, Beauty Book is foraying into summer skin issues. From sun-tanned skin to acne, we are breaking down the spectrum of skin problems in summer and their relevant solutions. Throw in this mix some preventative measures and steer clear of these pesky skin issues with ease!
Skin Problems During Summer. What Are They And How To Nip Them In The Bud?
1. Acne
If you witness episodes of inexplicable breakouts or sense an abrupt exacerbation of acne during summer, you can probably trace it back to the soaring temperature. For the uninitiated, the body is prone to sweating profusely during hot and humid weather (a cooling mechanism). And with the excess moisture content in the atmosphere slackening the evaporation of sweat from the skin — clogged pores are inevitable! Atop, this state of irritated skin lays bare to external aggressors like dirt, which also is a primary contributing factor to acne.
Prevention: Use blotting paper to soak up the sweat and eliminate the unwanted shine. A blotting paper boasts extra-absorbent materials such as flax, cotton and rice- the ideal choice for doing away with the perspiration on the face (even on a full face of makeup!).
If you are susceptible to acne, steer clear of comedogenic offerings that can aggravate the agitated state of your pores or breakouts.
Cure: Salicylic acid is the star ingredient for combating acne in its varying stages. Which is why, we recommend using a salicylic acid-infused face wash to help unclog pores and administer controlled oil production.
2. Dry Skin
If summers are icky and greasy, how do we explain episodes of skin dryness? A myriad of reasons amounts to parched skin — one of the most vexing skin problems during summer. The blazing sun and moisture-saturated air play the primary role in zapping water from the skin's layers. Moreover, if you have been venturing out in the open without slathering ample SPF, the constant exposure to the sun can hamper the skin barrier — leading to transepidermal loss.
Frequent dips in the pool and lounging in air-conditioned rooms for prolonged periods may also lead to exceptionally dry or flaky skin.
Prevention: We recommend applying a generous coat of sunscreen irrespective of whether you are venturing outdoors or staying put. Moreover, abiding by an appropriate summer skincare regimen (cut out for your skin type) is integral to elude this skin concern; regular application of your fave moisturiser to curb water loss and keep the skin barrier intact!
Cure: We advise using a gentle cleanser, followed by a moisturiser (a gel or water-based one as per your skin type), preferably infused with a potent humectant (like HA). This will ensure that the skin retains adequate moisture and keeps this summer, skin concern at bay.
3. Sunburn
Inarguably the most prevalent skin concern during summer —sunburn is the reddening of the skin owing to prolonged exposure to the (well, you guessed it right) mighty sun. For the unversed, sunlight contains UV rays which may be gravely detrimental to the skin on contact at length. The skin is conditioned as a coping strategy to develop the pigment Melanie, which makes it darker and adroitly blocks a good portion of the damaging rays. However, the body's incapacity to produce copious amounts of melanin to shield the skin against all UV rays results in a sunburn.
Prevention: Use hats and scarves to shield your face against incessant exposure to the sun. We also recommend incorporating a broad-spectrum sunscreen for all reasons and seasons (and summer is no exception to this rule).
Cure: Frequent cool showers help in successfully cooling the aggravated area. In case of a severe burn, use over-the-counter cooling ingredients like the humble yet versatile- aloe vera to help relieve the pain.
4. Heat Rash
Dealing with a heat rash or a summer rash (in this case) can be menacing. Caused due to the sweat gland being obstructed that eventually leads to the appearance of tiny, itchy bumps on the affected area. The aforementioned is one of the most prevalent skin problems one grapples with in summertime and can resurface if not treated.
Prevention: Use loose-fitted, cotton clothing that allows your skin to breathe. Make sure to shower post a heavy workout sesh or any other activity that may have induced heavy sweating.
Cure: We recommend using an ice pack or calamine lotion on the affected area. You may also use aloe vera or refrigerated lightweight moisturiser to help alleviate the pain.
