The onset of hot weather brings about a complete change in lifestyle. You change your clothes, your eating habits and probably even your workout. So why does  your poor skin have to bear with the same old routine? Treat the biggest organ of your body with a brand new skin care routine for summer!

Why do you need a special skin care routine for summer?

Indian summers are quite intense, and your skin may be the first part of your body to literally feel the heat. The harsh heat causes all kinds of problems ranging from prickly heat to melanoma (skin cancer).  The heavy humidity can result in excessive sweating, which can block the sweat glands resulting in prickly heat. This is a particularly annoying condition that causes itching, and the itching only makes it worse.

Another problem is oiliness. During summer, your body tries to keep the skin’s moisture level balanced by producing more oil. This excessive oil combined with dead skin cells blocks pores, causing acne and breakouts.

UV rays are particularly strong in summer, and can cause premature ageing, like fine lines and wrinkles. Too much exposure can also cause sunburn which increases chances of melanoma or skin cancer.

Tanning is also a concern, and can result in a dull and uneven complexion. And sitting in an air conditioned room doesn’t make you immune! Hours of air conditioning can dry out your skin and make it lifeless and parched.

So now you know why a special skin care routine is essential for summer. It should ideally be one that solves all the problems mentioned above, while keeping your skin healthy, moisturized and glowing.

The Ideal Skin Care Routine for Summer

Step 1:

Start day with glass of water to flush out all those toxins. You can also add a dash of lemon and/or a tsp of honey. This really helps to clean out all the waste in your body and makes your skin clearer.

Step 2:

Start your daily skin care with an exfoliation session. A coconut oil-sugar mix is perfect, and not only does it immediately wake up your skin, it get rid of the dead skin cells and lets your glow out. Exfoliating first also helps other skin care and makeup products sit better on your face.

Step 3:

You simply can’t skin sunscreen, so choose one with a minimum of SPF 30. Apply the sunscreen at least 20-30 minutes before you leave the house to ensure it’s absorbed properly. You may need to reapply it after a few hours, so keep a small bottle in your purse.

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Step 4:

Along with the sunscreen bottle, it’s also recommended to have a facial spray in your bag, especially if you have oily skin. Since the body’s natural cooling mechanisms results in the production of more oil, a facial spray can instantly refresh skin while on the go. A simple green tea brew with a few drops of Vitamin E oil is perfect for summer.

Step 5:

Once you’re back home, it’s time to undo any damage the sun may have done. This is especially important if you forgot the sunscreen in the morning or were outdoors when it was really sunny. Cold cucumber slices can be calming for skin on the eyes, while frozen tomato pulp is excellent for soothing the rest of the face.

Step 6:

Get refreshed with a bath with cool water. Add some rose water to your bathing water to calm both your skin and your senses. If prickly heat is bothering you, some neem leaves in your water should offer some relief.

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Step 7:

Be sure to follow a proper CTM routine before settling down for bed. It goes without saying that you must take off all makeup and follow up with a cleanser and toner. Skip heavy night creams and go for light moisturizers instead. Choose water based creams for normal skin and gel based ones for oily skin.

Weekly:

Once a week, give your skin a thorough clean up with a natural face pack that’s suited to your skin type. Here are 3 face packs for each skin type, targeting specific summer skin problems.

DIY Egg Face Pack for Normal Skin

The protein in egg, de-tanning effects of lemon juice and the moisturizing properties of honey make this an excellent face mask for summer.

• One egg white
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey

Mix all the ingredients together. If it’s too thin, add a little powdered oatmeal to thicken the mixture. Apply all over the face and neck and leave it on for 20 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water. Read more on how to reduce acne using egg whites.

DIY Papaya Face Pack for Dry Skin

This papaya face mask not just exfoliates, it also moisturizes skin during hot weather. The papaya also contains anti oxidants that keep skin looking youthful and fresh.

• 1/4 cup papaya pulp
• 1 tbsp thick yogurt
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Mix all the ingredients together into a thick paste. The paste shouldn’t drip, so add in the ingredients gradually to reach the right consistency. Apply all over skin and neck. Leave for 15 minutes before washing off with cool water.

DIY Multani Mitti Face Pack for Oily Skin

A great pack to absorb excess oil and keep the skin fresh. It also soothes the skin after sun exposure.

• 1 tbsp Multani Mitti (Fuller’s Earth)
• 1 tsp sandalwood powder
• 1 tsp besan
• Enough cold milk to make a paste

Mix all the ingredients into a paste and apply all over the skin and neck. Leave for as long as it takes to harden, and then wash off with cool water.

With the right daily care and some skin-specific indulgence on the weekend, you can be assured that you’ll have beautiful, healthy and glowing skin all summer long!