Daily Trust Sunday

Skincare tips for the hot weather

- Compiled by Rosemary Etim Bassey

As the temperatur­e rises during hot weather, it’s crucial to adjust your skincare routine to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Here are some essential skincare tips to help you navigate the heat with ease:

Stay hydrated: Hydration is key to maintainin­g healthy skin, especially in hot weather when you’re more prone to dehydratio­n. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day, and consider incorporat­ing hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and leafy greens into your diet.

Use lightweigh­t products: Swap heavy creams and lotions for lightweigh­t, oil-free moisturize­rs and serums. Look for products with hydrating ingredient­s like hyaluronic acid or glycerine that can provide moisture without feeling greasy or heavy on the skin. Gel-based moisturize­rs are also a great option for hot weather as they absorb quickly and feel refreshing on the skin.

Apply sunscreen daily: Protect your skin from sun damage by wearing sunscreen every day, even on cloudy or overcast days. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to often overlooked areas like your ears, neck, and the backs of your hands.

Seek shade: Limit your exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10am and 4pm. Seek shade whenever possible, especially if you’ll be spending extended periods of time outdoors. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and lightweigh­t, protective clothing can also help shield your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Stay cool: Hot weather can exacerbate skin conditions like acne and rosacea, so it’s important to keep your skin cool and calm. Take cool showers to lower your body temperatur­e and soothe irritated skin. You can also use a facial mist or chilled gel mask to refresh and hydrate your skin throughout the day.

Exfoliate regularly: Exfoliatio­n helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover, leaving your skin looking bright and refreshed. However, be mindful not to over-exfoliate, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. Opt for gentle exfoliants like chemical exfoliants containing alpha hydroxyl acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxyl acids (BHAs), which are less abrasive than physical scrubs.

Protect your lips: Don’t forget to protect your lips from the sun’s rays by using a lip balm with SPF. Lips can easily become dry and chapped in hot weather, so opt for a hydrating formula with ingredient­s like shea butter or coconut oil to keep them soft and moisturize­d.

Stay consistent: Consistenc­y is key when it comes to skincare, so stick to your routine even when the weather heats up. Cleanse your skin twice daily, moisturize, apply sunscreen, and use any treatment products as directed to maintain healthy, glowing skin year-round.

By following these skincare tips for hot weather, you can keep your skin looking and feeling its best, no matter how high the temperatur­e climbs. Remember to listen to your skin’s needs and make adjustment­s to your

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routine as necessary to ensure optimal hydration, protection, and overall skin health.

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