Though it’s just April the scorching heat this time is no less than June’s heat. The day is not far when summer holidays for kids may start off as early as mid-April. With the rise in mercury, it becomes essential to take special care of the body, skin and hair. Let us have a look at some important summer tips to deal with summer heat and stay safe and cool.
1. Screen your skin with a Sunscreen:
As the summer sets in, a sunscreen is the best investment you can indulge in. Choose the right SPF and medium according to your skin type. Make sure you do not use the expired product even if that means buying one every year. A sunscreen or sunblock creates a barrier layer between the skin and the harmful skin rays, thus protecting the skin from the damage to prevent age spots, tan, sunburn etc. Avoid direct sun exposure during the peak hours – 10 am to 4 pm to minimize UV radiation exposure. If you are going to be out in sun for long hours then reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours.
2. Protect your locks:
Yes, we did apply sunscreen abundantly on our exposed skin, but what about our hair? They also need protection from the harmful sun rays. Your hair suffers big-time during the summer. Daily sun exposure leads to heat damage and a chlorinated swimming pool again takes a toll on your hair leaving it feeling limp, greasy and dull. If you are an avid swimmer or planning to do a lot of swimming this season, then investing in an anti-chlorine shampoo and conditioner will help neutralize the chlorine from your hair. Try some oil based leave-in conditioner which you can apply on damp hair and just leave on. Try to minimize the use of hairdryers, straighteners and other heating products.
3. Prepare your body:
Summer is the time to flaunt your body, be it a beach party or a cozy evening invite. Tone up your body by enrolling in a fitness program. Don’t forget to follow a healthy diet pattern. In summers, our digestive system slows down so it is best to avoid oily and processed food.
4. Keep yourself hydrated:
The increased heat and sweat in hot summers can lead to dehydration if you are not careful. The thirst which is commonly mistaken as hunger turns you towards eating more food. Making a target of drinking 8-10 glasses of water will help you maintain water levels of your body. Opting for coconut water, green tea or fruit infused water is a smart and a healthy way to include more liquids.
5. Shield yourself from the mosquitoes:
If you are one of those who tends to attract mosquitoes more than anyone else in the room, then you should look for the basic tips to protect yourself from mosquitoes this summer. Use a good mosquito repellent on exposed skin or clothing. If you are worried about the harmful chemicals in the repellent then go for natural ways to ward off mosquitoes. As the mosquitoes are attracted towards human scent, blocking the scent through another strong smell can help keep them at bay. You can add few plants in your surroundings such as tulsi, citronella, lavender etc. Or use essential oils such as neem oil, lemon and eucalyptus oil or citronella oil. Burning camphor in a closed room is also effective for the same. Stay away from dark colored clothes as dark colors attract mosquitoes.
Understanding the basic do’s and don’t’s during summers will help you gear up for summer and enjoy it equivalently like any other season of the year.
Stay Healthy. Stay Happy.
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