How to take care of your skin and hair during the humid Indian summer

In most parts of India, the temperatures are soaring. When you add high humidity levels to the mix, it can feel stifling. Warm weather adds a whole slew of challenges to your beauty routine too, so you may have to switch up your repertoire to prevent acne, dandruff and redness. We spoke to Delhi-based dermatologist Dr Kiran Sethi, and lifestyle coach Luke Coutinho, for their take on an inside-out approach to cooling yourself down right now. 

Use light layers

While winter demands a heavy, often cream-based moisturiser, continuing to use it over summer can clog your pores instead. “Change your moisturiser. Either stop using it entirely or use a gel-based formula," says Dr Sethi. Pick a multi-purpose product—like a serum and moisturiser duo to prevent multiple layers.

Don't skip sunscreen

Sunscreen, especially mineral ones, can feel heavy and tacky on the skin. This is only compounded by the humidity. But the harsh UV rays of the sun—or simply the blue light from your computer—can do so much more harm right now. "You should also use a gel-based sunblock instead of your usual one and make sure that you apply copious amounts and use it twice a day at least,” says Dr Sethi.

Look for oil-balancing products for the skin and scalp

To combat super greasy hair, use a salicylic acid or glycolic acid shampoo to reduce oil secretion in the scalp. If you want to go the natural route, apple cider vinegar works well to balance the pH as well as deep-cleanse any buildup. For the face too, salicylic acid helps to improve cell turnover, while benzoyl peroxide kills any acne-causing bacteria in the area too. If heat rashes and body acne is an issue, the same ingredients in a body wash are key.

Try adding a gua sha or roller into your routine

On a warm day, nothing feels as good as an ice cube massage. If you want to go the extra mile, improve the massage experience with a tool. “A cold gua sha or roller massage also boosts lymphatic drainage, and helps with puffy eyes and reduces inflammation,” advises Dr Sethi.

Switch up your hair conditioner

Excessive humidity can damage the keratin of your hair and also make them frizzy when dehydrated. “Condition your hair not just after your shampoo but before too. You can also use coconut oil as a hair serum, put just a little bit through the ends. Shampoo no more than once or twice a week and use gentler or non-foaming shampoos,” says Dr Sethi.

Keep a face mist handy

A face mist is a great quick-fix if you need a boost of refreshment. But if you pick the right one, a face mist can take over the benefits of a toner and a serum, negating the use of these categories right now. It usually has micro-sized droplets that can penetrate the skin and deliver brightening and hydrating ingredients. 

Don't forget to exfoliate

While adding hydrating products is important, making sure to slough off all the dead skin cells on the top is just as key. Adding a physical or chemical exfoliator will ensure a revved up skin renewal timeline, which improves skin clarity and stops acne in its tracks.

Adding cooling foods to your diet

Hydrating and cooling from the inside-out also has a direct impact on your skin and hair, as well as an overall effect on the body. "Try including these foods that have cooling properties like kokum, sattu, raw mango, fennel seeds, coriander seed water, thin buttermilk made from quality yoghurt, sliced cucumbers, coconut water and basil or sabja seeds,” suggests Coutinho.

Sweat it out 

“People try and prevent sweating during summers but sweating helps regulate the body temperature,” says Coutinho. It is a natural mechanism, which he compares to an overheated engine. “You put water in the radiator and it cools down,” he says. 

Reach for cooling and mattifying DIY masks

For a homemade DIY cooling remedy, Dr Sethi recommends an aloe vera mask, which is full of minerals, anti-inflammatory ingredients, vitamins, electrolytes, and circulation boosting actives. “Take cold aloe vera gel, mix into coconut water and cold green tea. Use this mix as a cooling astringent or serum post cleansing,” she says. Another easy go-to? A cooling eye pack. Opt for hydrating under eye patches to calm your skin, or make one at home “Cold teabags are a great for under eye. Make them damp and place them on the eyes for 10 minutes. They help improve circulation and reduce eye strain,” says Dr Sethi.

Also read:

8 cooling foods that will help you fight all your summer skin and health issues

How to transition your skincare routine for summer, according to K-beauty

4 smart skincare rules you must follow when the season changes