Summer is often synonymous with sun-soaked days, beach outings, and a more relaxed pace of life. While we may enjoy the warmth and extended daylight, the summer months can be particularly harsh on our skin. You might expect summer to keep your skin hydrated with all the humidity in the air, but the reality is that the summer heat can actually lead to dry, flaky, and irritated skin.
Why Does Skin Dry Out in Summer?
- Increased Sun Exposure: The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are stronger in the summer, leading to increased exposure. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can damage the skin’s natural barrier, stripping it of essential moisture. This damage can lead to dry, rough patches, premature ageing, and in severe cases, sunburn.
- Higher Temperatures: The heat of summer causes your body to perspire more. While perspiring more helps cool your body down, it also depletes your skin of its natural oils. When perspiration evaporates, it takes moisture from your skin, leaving it dehydrated.
- Air Conditioning: While air conditioning provides a much-needed respite from the heat, it can be detrimental to your skin. AC units remove moisture from the air, leading to a dry indoor environment. Spending long hours in air-conditioned spaces can sap moisture from your skin, making it feel tight and dry.
- Chlorine and Saltwater: Summer often means swimming, whether in pools or the ocean. Chlorine in pools and salt in ocean water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and irritated. Repeated exposure can exacerbate this effect, especially if you don’t rinse off and moisturise afterwards.
- Frequent Washing: In an effort to stay cool and clean, people tend to wash their faces and shower more frequently in the summer. However, over-washing can strip the skin of its natural protective oils, leading to dryness. The use of harsh soaps or cleansers can make this even worse.
How to Keep Your Skin Hydrated During Summer
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- Use a Gentle Cleanser: Switch to a mild, hydrating cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides that help retain moisture.
- Hydrate from Within: Drinking plenty of water is crucial in summer to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day, and consider adding hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges to your diet.
- Moisturise Regularly: Even if your skin feels oily in the summer, it’s important to keep moisturising. Opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser that won’t clog your pores. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera are great for adding moisture without heaviness.
- Apply Sunscreen Religiously: Sunscreen is non-negotiable during the summer months. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or perspiring. Sunscreen not only protects your skin from UV damage but also helps prevent moisture loss.
- Limit Time in the Sun: Try to avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (10am to 4 PM) when the sun’s rays are strongest. Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses can also help shield your skin from UV rays and reduce moisture loss.
- Rinse Off After Swimming: After a swim, make sure to rinse off chlorine or saltwater as soon as possible. Follow up with a hydrating body lotion to replenish lost moisture. Look for lotions containing aloe vera or shea butter, known for their soothing and moisturising properties.
- Invest in a Humidifier: If you spend a lot of time in air-conditioned environments, consider using a humidifier at home to add moisture back into the air. This can help prevent your skin from drying out overnight.
Final Thoughts
Summer can be a challenging time for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. However, with the right skincare routine and some mindful habits, you can enjoy the sun without sacrificing your skin’s health. Remember, hydration is key—both inside and out. By taking a few extra steps to protect your skin, you can ensure that it stays soft, supple, and radiant all summer long.
