Of summer heat and how to take care of yourself

Fashion 263 Correspondent

Summer heat is excruciating, and we are all living it now. 

As summer continues to blaze in all different parts of the country, air-conditioned rooms and cold drinks have become our saviours. You can prepare yourself to be a bit cautious this summer to avoid the irritability and health issues caused by excessive heat exposure. 

It’s a scorcher out there, make sure you choose the correct sunscreen for your skin type

With the rising temperatures, we find ourselves spending more time outdoors.

And while we should be wearing sunscreen every day regardless of the weather, it’s especially important to do so during this time.

When it comes to selecting a sunscreen, you have to bear in mind that not everyone has the same skin type. So there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

However, selecting the correct sunscreen for you can be overwhelming, especially with the wide variety of sunscreen products on the market.

To make this selection easier for you, here’s a guide to choosing the correct sunscreen for your skin type.

What is your skin type?

Understanding your skin type is the first step in choosing the right sunscreen. 

Common skin types include oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. 

Each skin type has different needs when it comes to sun protection.

Sun Protection Factor

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures a sunscreen’s ability to block UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn. 

Higher SPF numbers indicate greater protection. For most individuals, an SPF of 30 is sufficient. 

However, if you have fair or highly sun-sensitive skin, opting for an SPF 50 or higher is recommended.

Broad spectrum protection

Look for sunscreens labelled as ‘broad spectrum’. 

These products provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays. 

UVA rays can cause long-term skin damage and premature ageing, while UVB rays are responsible for immediate sunburn. 

Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen ensures comprehensive protection.

Consider your skin sensitivities

If you have sensitive skin, opt for sunscreens that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Look for ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are less likely to cause irritation. 

Avoid sunscreens with potential allergens, such as oxybenzone or fragrances.

Look out for additional features

Some sunscreens offer additional benefits, such as oil control, hydration, or anti-ageing properties. 

Consider your specific skincare needs and choose a sunscreen that complements them. For example, if you have oily skin, look for oil-free or mattifying sunscreens. 

If you have dry skin, opt for moisturising formulas.

Water resistance

If you plan to spend time in the water or engage in any physical activities that may cause perspiration, choose a water-resistant sunscreen. 

These formulas adhere better to the skin, offering prolonged protection even when exposed to water or sweat.

Formulas

Sunscreens are available in various forms such as lotions, creams, gels, sprays, and sticks. Choose one that feels comfortable on your skin and is easy to apply.

Here are some simple and practical tips that can help you manage the heat and enjoy the summer.

 What To Drink During Summer?

First things first, you need to make sure you are well-dehydrated all the time in the summer. The constant sweating makes you lose the water content in the body, leaving you thirsty and dehydrated. 

Here are some foods that can help keep you hydrated.

Fresh juice: No, not the store-bought juices loaded with sugar but all-natural fruit juices which can help keep you active in the scorching heat. If you are buying from shops, check the label for ‘100 per cent juice with no sugar added’

 Water: Don’t just drink when you feel thirsty; drink water throughout the day to prevent dehydration or over-exhaustion. You don’t have to wait till you are dehydrated to drink water; carry a bottle and make sure you are keeping yourself hydrated.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine: This surely does not come as a surprise as it is common knowledge that alcohol will leave you dehydrated and tired under the sun. However, if you cannot go without a cold brew, make sure you are drinking water in between. Like alcohol, caffeine reduces the water content in your body, so on hot days, avoid tea and coffee as much as you can

 What To Eat During Summer?

During the summer season, eating the right foods can make a huge difference in managing your body heat and keeping you cool. Adjust your diet accordingly to include and avoid the following foods.

Fresh fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are easy to digest and often high in water content, making it a perfect diet for the summer. Fresh fruit and vegetable salads can help keep you hydrated and full healthily and lightly, not leaving you feeling too full.

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