Cleanse:
Cleanse your face with a face wash or soap that suits your skin type at least twice a day to get rid of the pollutants, sweat and prevent blocking of pores. Note that you don’t have to use a face wash every time you wash your face, only when you feel that it needs deep cleansing, otherwise, you can always rinse your face with just water. After cleansing make sure you use a toner to remove excess dirt and to reduce the appearance of pores.

Moisturise:
A lot of people think they don’t require a moisturiser during summer, but it’s a myth. Moisturisers have to be used by everyone and during every season. However, using a light gel based or a water based moisturiser during summer which gets absorbed easily into your skin would be an ideal choice to keep your skin soft and hydrated. Use the lotion right after your bath to seal the moisture into skin. You can also use natural Aloe Vera gel as it will not only soothe your skin but also work wonders for scars and marks. Facial sprays and mists made of rose water or cucumber can also be used for refreshing your skin.

You should also moisturise your feet as most of us tend to avoid closed shoes and boots during summer. The area under your eyes is the most sensitive part of your face and needs special care. Apply an under eye cream and wear sunglasses to keep your under eyes healthy and prevent wrinkles under your eyes.

Exfoliate:
Your skin sheds about 30,000 dead cells every minute, the only way to get rid of them is to exfoliate. Use a scrub in slow circular motions two to three times a week to get smooth and rejuvenated skin. You can make scrubs at home with coffee, sea salt, sugar, oatmeal and honey to get the best results.

Use sunscreen:
Sunscreen is an essential not only during the summers or when you go swimming, but all year round. The UVA and UVB rays can be very harmful for your body, not only do they cause tan by increasing the melanin in your body, they also contribute to premature aging, wrinkles and fine lines. In extreme cases, they can also cause skin cancer. So sunscreen is a must have skincare product during all seasons. People with oily skin who are worried about sunscreen being an extra layer on their skin or making their skin oily during summer can use a 2 in 1 sunscreen that also contains moisturizer, or use a gel based, lightweight, sunscreen which gives off a matte finish. Use a sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from the harmful rays.

Use a full teaspoon of sunscreen on your face and a shot glass of sunscreen on your body, every 2 hours and 15 minutes before you step outdoors to achieve the best results.
You can also use a lip balm with an SPF of 15 to keep your lips healthy and safe.

Use products with antioxidants that will protect your skin from damage, repair your skin, and reduce inflammation and signs of aging.

Wear minimal makeup to prevent clogged pores and let your skin breathe during summer. If you really want to apply something, choose a tinted moisturizer and a tined lip balm.

Maintain hygiene:
Take a shower twice a day during summer to keep your skin clean and fresh. Avoid hot baths as they make your skin dehydrated. You should also take a bath after going for a swim to get that chlorine off your body.

Choose light breathable clothes: Wear light cotton clothes that allow your skin to breathe, to prevent it from rashes and skin infections. Avoid polyester and materials that will make you sweat.

Alter your diet:
As a general rule, drink at least 8 glasses of water in a day. Drinking a lot of water will not only keep you hydrated, but also flush out toxins from your body. This is one of the best skincare tips that every skin care specialist will offer you. You can also choose to keep yourself fresh with coconut water, watermelon juice and make the most of the seasonal fruits by in taking all those minerals into your body. Avoid aerated sugary drink which will make you feel sluggish, bloated and contribute to breakouts.

Rest well:
Get enough sleep, a minimum of 7 hours a day to feel fresh and maintain healthy skin. The days are longer during the summer, so you need to let your skin rest and repair to look your best.

Use these skincare tips to keep your skin safe, healthy and protected during the summer.

— By Dr. Sushant Shetty, Head – Medical Operations, Services & Engineering at Kaya Skin Clinics.