Irrespective of the weather, the strong ultraviolet rays of the sun penetrate your delicate skin and they not only darken it but also damage and make it prone to skin cancer. Dehydration, pigmentation, dryness, sunburn, immune suppression, age spots and premature aging are some of the most common effects of damage caused by the sun. Prolonged exposure to the UV rays of the sun can also lead to cataract. Read on for a complete skincare guide that will help you stay sun-protected!
* SAFEGUARD YOUR SKINThe first and foremost step is to choose the right sunscreen–one that understands the needs of your skin. Delhi-based dermatologist, Dr. Manoj Khanna suggests replacing your last year’s unused sunscreen with a new bottle. “Sunscreens aren’t meant to last forever, and we see that most people don’t use as much as they should,” he says. “Buy a new sunscreen that offers UVA and UVB protection with SPF 30 and SPF 70. You should be using it in the measure of a shot glass just for your body and a teaspoon of it for your face. Reapply every 1–2 hours, after stepping out in the sun.”
* EXFOLIATE WELLYour body sheds skin cells at an amazing rate, every minute of every day. It is, therefore, important to exfoliate your skin to get rid of these skin cells. With lack of exfoliation, your skin will not glow, no matter how much lotion you use. So grab a body scrub now and get into the shower. All you need to do is gently rub it on your body in circular movements and rinse it off with water. Repeat this 2–3 times a week for better results. Follow it up with an application of a light lotion that is fast absorbing and refreshing for your skin. This is to seal in the moisture that has just been soaked in.
* TIME TO HYDRATEApply grated cucumber or mashed watermelon all over your face to keep your skin hydrated, naturally. It not only moisturises and hydrates your skin but also cools you off instantly from the harsh sunrays. “Aloe vera is another excellent option for hydration. It creates a protective layer on the skin and helps to minimise tanning, dryness, etc.,” suggests Bhavna Vohra, Spa Expert at Heaven on Earth Wellness Spa. Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water every day. Water not only makes you feel fresh and prevents dehydration but also helps wash out toxins from your body. “Eat foods that nourish your skin. The best way to keep your body hydrated—both internally and externally—is to have watery fruits and vegetables like melons, cucumber, green salads and tomatoes,” adds the expert.
* SUN-KISSED GLOWYou have so many choices when it comes to adding a little tint to your skin, but the tanning bed shouldn’t be one of them. Dr Manoj Khanna advises, “Using a sunless tanner will give your skin a beautiful start to summer. Even if you do not wish to slather the sunless tanner all over your body, you can apply it only on your face. If you alternate your facial moisturiser with one that adds a little colour to your skin; you’ll have a healthy glow that will make it look as though you just spent the weekend on the beach.”