Season’s greeting for skincare

Sweaty face and body, an oily residue and acne - they’re all typical monsoon troubles you’re bound to face. But, say dermatologists, Dr Priti Shukla, Cosmetic/Plastic Surgeon, Ambrosia Clinic, Hyderabad and Dr Sanjay Parashar, Cosmetic Surgeon, Cocoona that monsoon is the best time to take care of your skin.

“Think about it,” says Dr Priti, “Monsoons are the ideal time to rejuvenate the skin. The sun is easy on you and one can use this time to take care of the damage the summer sun did – like tan and pigmentation.” “It’s a perfect time to go for acne, scar and wrinkle treatment.

Because procedures such as peeling, PRP, fractionated C02 laser, derma roller can be safely done without risk of harsh sun damage. It’s indeed the time to get ready for winter,” informs Dr Sanjay.

“Sun shines in between the rains and therefore sunscreen should not be neglected. Good sunscreen of SPF above 30 along with UVA and UVB rays protection should be used every four hours when in sun.”

Although the sun is not harsh, the doctors warn of dehydration in the season. “Hydrate and cleanse properly,” they caution. “During the monsoons one should not ignore humidity and sweat that comes along. Cleansing multiple times a day, especially for those who are out there is important.

During summer, the body tends to lose a lot of moisture and everyone tends to succumb to dehydration and so it’s important to replenish water levels during monsoon,” they add.

Sharing tips for the same, Dr Sanjay says, “Add lots of melons and curd to your diet. Coconut water helps to replenish electrolytes and take green tea rich in antioxidants to protect your skin from UV damage.”

When it comes to skincare, Dr Priti says, “Exfoliate at least two to three times a week. Don't avoid moisturising your skin, use light water based moisturizer. Use milder toners.”

Of course, it goes without saying that using sunscreen in monsoon is as important as it was during summer. “Apply sunscreen on all exposed areas at least 20-30 minutes before stepping out. Use sunscreen of SPF 30 or more and star rating at least 3 plus,” says the doctor.

“If you develop sensitivity to sunscreen, use physical blocker with zinc oxide. Boost your protection with antioxidants with skincare products containing vitamin C and E,” she concludes.

By: Dr Priti Shukla