Overview

Summer is here! It not only makes the skin most vulnerable, but the heat brings a whole lot of skin challenges that require extra attention and care. Skin is the first layer of defense against the external environment like heat, humidity, pollution, and temperature changes. During summer, fungal infections are very common as they thrive in warm and moist conditions. Therefore, it is important to take good care of your skin and follow a skincare routine for healthy and glowing skin.  

“Skin is the largest, but the most neglected organ of our body,” says dermatologist Dr. Faryal Shareef. She proposes cleansing the face thrice a day and removing makeup before heading to bed, as it causes intense breakouts. She further stresses minimal use of makeup products which contain mercury and steroid as they ruin the skin. 

Below, Dr. Faryal provides some useful tips to incorporate within your daily routine to keep the skin healthy during summertime. 

Stay Hydrated

Karachi’s weather is typically humid and hot and people here experience a lot of fungal infections, acne, and scabies. Thus Dr. Faryal suggests, staying hydrated and drinking enough water/fluids, preferably 7 to 9 glasses necessary for glowing skin and health in general. 

Apart from maintaining internal hydration, it is essential to keep your skin hydrated. Use a good moisturizer that suits your true skin type as prescribed by your dermatologist. A moisturized skin reflects light evenly making it appear more radiant and is less likely to become chapped, scaly, or flaky. 

Eat a Balanced Diet

Eat plenty of seasonal fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Your preferred choice should be foods low on the glycemic index. Such foods digest and absorb slowly, causing a slower and smaller rise in blood sugar levels. According to Dr. Faryal, “Cutting down on refined sugar, oil, and junk food is the best solution for a glowing skin and body.”

Wear Sunscreen 

Sunrays are the primary cause of breakouts, acne, wrinkles, dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin disorders. Sunscreen can be applied on your face, neck, and all other sun-exposed parts of the body to avoid tanning and sunburns. Dr. Faryal states, “Use a significant amount of sunscreen which has SPF 40 or 60 (Sun Protection Factor) for general skin types and re-apply it every 3-4 hours even when indoors to reduce any sun damage.” She also recommends the use of Vitamin C Serum before applying sunscreen. 

Avoid Smoking

“Smoking causes nail damage, hair fall, and skin pigmentation, particularly around the lip area. It can cause damage to the internal organs of the body which may manifest on the skin and nail.” she says. Therefore, the best way to protect your skin is to quit smoking as it damages the collagen and elastin in your skin, which helps in making you look younger, healthier, and fresher. 

Exfoliate the skin

Dr.Faryal gives due importance to exfoliation as it removes dead cells from the outer layer of the skin and unclogs pores. It also increases skin's radiance and youthfulness. She further explains, that there are two types of exfoliation methods and the technique you choose should be guided by your skin type.

1. Mechanical Exfoliation: Use scrubs according to your skin type. Massage your skin in a circular motion for 2 minutes and cleanse thoroughly. Do not forget to moisturize afterward.
2. Chemical Exfoliation: Use chemicals, such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids to gently dissolve dead skin cells.

Conclusion

To maintain radiant and youthful skin, a healthy lifestyle with good hydration, proper sleep, a balanced diet, and exercise is essential. Remember to treat your skin gently by using mild cleansers and moisturizers. Your skin requires extra attention and care during summer, but with the simple steps mentioned above, you can easily protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun and heat. 

Wish you healthier and radiant skin this summer!