When it comes to hot weather, people with sensitive skin (skin which is more prone to inflammation/ irritation) end up with redness, rashes, skin irritation and clogged pores, sunburns, tanning etc.
As the weather gets hotter and humidity increases in the environment, your skin’s sebaceous or oil glands start producing excess sebum leading to unwanted clogged pores and oily skin, which can spike up your acne and make your skin look dull.
On the other hand, too much exposure to UV rays increases the production of melanin in order to protect your skin. Excess melanin eventually leads to tanned skin.
To keep your sensitive skin protected, the following tips will do wonders for you!
1. Cover up! – it’s important to cover your skin when you’re out and about! Yes i know you’ve been waiting for months to wear that cute little dress or show your summer body, but keeping your skin exposed to sunlight for too long will do you more harm than good. So, don’t forget to carry an umbrella, sunglasses and your fancy big hat the next time you go out
2. Wear your sunscreen – As a dermatologist, I cannot stress on this more. The sun’s UV-A and UV-B rays can be rough on you. Besides giving you a stubborn tan, they can cause premature aging, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles. Apply a good quality sunscreen with SPF 30 or more is mandatory even if you stay indoors!
3. Keep yourself hydrated – Drink your water. Period! You lose too much water in summer through sweating. So, drink atleast 7-8 glasses of water (plain or infused water, that’s your choice) everyday to keep yourself hydrated and keep that glow intact! Go for seasonal vegetables and fruits to keep the nourishment going
4. Wash your face once/ twice a day with a mild non foaming, oil free, non comedogenic cleanser for sensitive skin – It is vital to clean your face twice a day to get that oil and pollution out of your pores but also to remember to not take long, hot showers or use harsh chemical cleansers. Use gentle exfoliator on the skin to remove the dead skin. Do not use any harsh scrub on your skin if you are prone to allergies as they can tear up the skin and cause irritation.
5. Use a water based moisturiser – This prickling season already makes your skin naturally heavy and oily. Therefore, instead of using an oil based moisturiser, go for a water based hypoallergenic moisturiser. They are equally hydrating, but light weight, gentle on the skin and simply perfect for summers
A person can keep a journal of the products that they use everyday to help them identify any possible triggers for their sensitive skin. If the symptoms are serious like eczema, contact dermatitis, or cracking skin then do consult your dermatologist immediately.
Stay hydrated and take care of yourselves.
