Dry skin feels terrible. It looks sad, malnourished and hurts. I tend to have dry skin during summers because of the changes in humidity levels, hot temperatures and low water intake, a problem I have had since childhood. I loved spending time outdoors and hanging out with friends, and even today I like going to open-air events and flea markets, exploring the city in my favourite summer outfits. But I tend to tan easily and sometimes get sunburned too if I don’t make the time for sunscreen. 

Not gonna lie, growing up I would feel like my skin was like sandpaper. My mother would use desi nuskas and homemade remedies to lock in the moisture of the skin. 

You try out different trending summer make-up looks to celebrate the summer only when you have healthy skin. I still follow these time-tested remedies along with some modern remedies that really work for me. I have listed them in this blog so can have feel-good skin all summer long. 

Keeping Dry Skin at Bay this Summer

The AC Stole My Skin’s Moisture 

Picture this: You turn on the AC to artificially cool indoor air and then step out into really hot temperatures. Your skin can’t handle this sudden change all the time. The hot air outside and the indoor cold air will suck the moisture right out of your skin because the air is dry.

We are also in the bad habit of keeping the air conditioner’s temperature at the lowest for maximum coolness. Instead, try keeping it at a comfortable temperature. Your skin will thank you.

Friends of the Skin: Chemical-Free Products

One of the most crucial things you can do to keep your skin healthy during the summer is to avoid harsh chemicals. Chemical-laden products can strip your skin of their oils and fats. This includes products like deodorants, soaps and even long hot showers. 

Instead, opt for natural, chemical-free products that are gentle on your skin. And switch to quick baths in water that is lukewarm or at room temperature.

Aloe Vera: A Miracle Plant Skin Care

There are many natural ingredients that you can use to keep your skin healthy and moisturized during the summer. One of my favourites is aloe vera. This miracle plant has been used for centuries to soothe and moisturize the skin and even the hair. I remember that my aunt had a potted aloe vera plant. She would slice open a leaf, running her knife through the middle and use a small fine-toothed comb to scrape out the gel. This technique would bring out more of the gel within the leaf which she would directly apply on my skin and even my hair. I just scoop out the insides with a spoon and run it once in the mixer jar to get the gel. But there is something about my aunt’s technique that was just fascinating to watch.

Aloe vera gel is rich in vitamins and minerals that help to nourish and hydrate the skin. It’s also a natural sunscreen, making it the perfect summer ingredient. 

For your skin, apply the gel directly to your skin, or mix it with your moisturizer for added hydration.

Even for the hair, apply the gel to your scalp and hair, massage it in, and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it out. You can also mix it with your favourite conditioner for added moisture. 

Sunscreens for Summer Skin Care

When it comes to skincare, it’s essential to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. While it’s important to use sunscreen, it’s worth noting that not all sunscreens are made equal. Many commercial sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed into your skin. Instead, look for natural, mineral-based sunscreens that are free from harmful chemicals. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are two natural ingredients that provide excellent sun protection without harming your skin.

Go for a minimum of SPF 30 to best protect dry skin in the summers. Something with aloe vera as an ingredient works better to keep your skin cool.

Ubtan: The Traditional Face and Skin Masks 

Ubtan or skin masks is something that every Indian mother and grandmother testifies to. My family is no exception. Be it dry skin, oily skin, tan, or just a nourishing treatment, there was an ubtan for it all. And it’s a simple recipe with all-natural ingredients.

For dry skin, I use a mixture of soaked and coarsely ground red masoor dal (lentils), a bit of malai (the skin of boiled milk), and a pinch of haldi (turmeric). And you are good to use it all over your skin. 

Another recipe is 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder and 3 tablespoons of gram flour respectively with a couple of teaspoons of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of honey and malai each. Add a few drops of rose water for a refreshing fragrance. Make a thick paste and apply it all over your body and face. This will nourish your dry skin and leave you with a lovely summer glow. 

The Power of Vitamin C and E

Summer is a great time to indulge in fruits. It helps regulate body temperature, hydrates have natural sugars and yes, the vital vitamins C & E. Go for water-based fruits like watermelons, cantaloupes, oranges, tangerines, sweet limes, honeydews, rose apples, and veggies like cucumbers, carrots, zucchinis and a variety of squashes.

The antioxidants will repair your skin and hair while also protecting you from high temperatures. It’s good for your health too.

H2O Love: The Importance of Hydration

It makes sense to fight dryness with water. Stay hydrated during the summer by drinking plenty of water and other hydrating fluids like coconut water. This keeps your skin moisturized, reducing acne and protecting it from sun damage, So make sure to drink eight glasses of water a day. 

It’s best to avoid too much caffeine in the form of aerated drinks and coffee and also alcohol. This is because high temperatures cause internal inflammation and you can feel dehydrated and dizzy. 

In Conclusion

It’s important to set up a good skincare routine. Remember, a summer skincare routine will be different from a monsoon or a winter routine because of the changing weather, temperature, humidity and other factors like diet, pollution, health and even time. Just like fixing dry skin, you can also fix your dry hair with simple tips to flaunt your fabulous locks in the summer. You can also explore more tips on summer skincare to help you change your skincare lifestyle for healthier skin.

It’s important to keep skin hydrated during the summer months. Avoid harsh chemicals, opt for natural, chemical-free products, and don’t forget to hydrate from the inside out and eat right.

Whether you choose a traditional remedy for dry skin or a modern-day one, your skin will thank you for all the TLC it will receive.