8 Tips For Taking Good Care Of The Skin In Summer

During summer, skin care should be redoubled. This is because the sun cases burns, premature aging of the skin and it also increases risk of cancer.

Therefore, to keep the skin healthy during summer, it is important to take some measures such as keeping the skin dry, sweat-free but properly hydrated, drinking plenty of fluids during the day, using sunscreen and avoid being out during hot hours of the day.

1. Keep skin clean, hydrated and dry

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To keep the skin clean and hydrated, it is important to take a shower at least twice a day as this will eliminate sweat. It is advisable to use water alone because using soap will make the skin drier.

Antiseptic soap can be used in the armpits, groin and feet to eliminate bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause frieze. However, to prevent proliferation of these microorganisms, the skin should be kept dry, because wetter and warmer region of the body will promote development of microorganisms especially fungi.

After bathing, it is advisable to apply moisturizing cream in the drier regions of the body such as the feet, knees, hands and elbows, so as to make the skin soft.

2. Wear sunscreen daily

Using sunscreen daily is important ton prevent premature aging of the skin and dryness. It also prevents attack by diseases such as skin cancer. Therefore, one should apply sun screen throughout the body parts that are exposed to the sun, even if you are not directly exposed to it.

3. Do not shave on sunny day

Another important tip for summer days is not to remove any hair from your face or body on the day or eve of sun exposure. This is because it may cause dark spots on the skin, especially when the hair is waxed. The recommended time to remove the hair should be at least 48 hours before sun exposure.

For better results, wax or laser hair removal can be done as the hair will be removed from the root. However, in both, it is still important to avoid sun exposure after epilation as the skin will become more sensitive.

4. Investing in beta carotene

To ensure that the skin has that brunette and tan look that look that lasts longer, it is recommended to eat foods rich in carotenoids such as carrot, pumpkin, papaya, apple and beetroot. This is because these foods favour the production of melanin, which is a pigment that us naturally present in the skin and gives the skin colour, leaving it more tanned.

person cutting up carrots containing beta carotene on chopping board

In addition, foods rich in beta carotenes contain antioxidants that have a protective effect on the skin hence avoiding damage that will be caused by rays of the sun.

5. Do not do skin treatments in summer

You should avoid laser treatments and chemicals during summer because such treatment can damage tanned skin and cause blemishes that will be difficult to remove. The best time to undergo such treatments is during autumn and winter, when the temperature is mild and the sun is weaker. However, it is also very important to use sunscreen during these treatments.

Another important tip is to exfoliate the skin, mainly the face and feet at least once a week to eliminate dead cells and renew the skin.

6. Bathe in fresh water when leaving the beach

After spending the day at the beach, you should take a fresh bath with cold water preferably, so as to remove the salt and sand which tends to dry skin and facilitate formation of cracks that can allow entry of microorganisms.

After bathing in fresh water, it is recommended that you moisturize the skin using sunscreen or lotion.

7. Avoid direct sun

During the hottest times of the day which are between 10 and 16 hours, direct exposure to the sun should be avoided as it poses more health risks. Thus, one should stay under a shade and wear a cap as well as light clothing, so as to protect the skin. One can also wear sunglasses to protect the eyes and avoid skin burns and risks of getting a heart stroke.

8. Drinking plenty of liquids

To prevent the body from being dehydrated, it is important to drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day or other fluids such as natural fruit juice or iced teas. This is because, aside from preventing dehydration, it refreshes the body. Consumption of alcoholic beverages is not recommended as they can result in loss of water from the skin and this will quickly cause dehydration, especially when they are taken on very hot days.

Fluids can also be consumed in some foods like in fruits such as vegetables which contain large amounts of water in their composition. They are a greater option for hot days as they promote skin health during summer.