The Creator has not made anything without a reason; seasons alter for us to ponder on and come up with solutions to fight back and stay healthy. Be it winter when shivers run down the bones and make you sick or the painful heat of the sun during summer, we should equip ourselves to stay fresh all the year round!

The much awaited and long lasting season of our country has finally arrived. Some countries see a higher mercury rise than us, but they have far better facilities that enable people to stay cool even at 50°C. We hope that in the days to come, we too will prosper; till then we can take some measures to make summer a bit more bearable.

Skin — entire body, not just face

Your entire body needs your attention, be it your face, hands, legs or any other part especially those which are exposed to the sun when you are outdoors. So take care all over. When using sun screen on your face to protect your complexion, dab some on your feet and hands as well; your entire skin tone will be balanced. Wear clothes that allow your skin to breathe. If you don’t generally cover your head, when moving under the sun, put on a scarf or your dupatta on your head to avoid direct sun exposure.

Water — undoubtedly the strongest weapon

We are always reminded that water intake in summer should be increased to avoid dehydration. When we sweat we lose water, and that is why it is advisable to take as much fluid as possible to restore the loss, especially when working for a long time under the sun. Keep a water bottle along; if you feel you are losing salts and minerals, add some available drink concentrate that gives you instant Vitamin C. The best alternative is to turn to fresh juices; seasonal fruits give a natural immunity against the weather related problems. It is not just people working outdoors who need to replenish their water needs, even those who stay indoorscan become dehydrated before they realise; hence, they should drink as much water as possible!

Sun block — prevention is better

According to dermatologists, sun light is essential for our health as it is the most reliable source of Vitamin D. However, the excess of the same can lead to skin cancer as well. It’s essential for everyone to wear sun block every time they go outdoors.

Make sure the SPF (Sun protection factor), a number usually given on the sun screen is on the higher side.

Food — say no to oil and spice

It’s better to refrain from food cooked in excessive oil and spices. During summer your skin secretes oil, hence it’s better to avoid taking extra fats. Try using less or no oil, by switching to grilling, poaching, steamed or baked dishes rather than fried or traditional Pakistani cooking style.

Moisturise — it’s essential

It’s a myth to not moisturise your skin during summer, as it already turns oily. This is not true. As your body gets dehydrated from inside, the same happens to the exterior cells as well. Your entire body needs a good quality, water based moisturiser, which keeps away dry patches and keeps it soft and supple. Being water based, it doesn’t give you that sticky feeling and makes you stay fresh all day.

Hygiene — be clean, smell good

Summer calls for extra personal hygiene. Cleanliness is the key to staying healthy, especially in this weather when you are up for a bath at least thrice a day. Make sure you use a good soap or shower gel. Use ample amount of anti-perspirant roll-on and deodorant, to make you and your surroundings liveable. It is essentially important to smell good all day long so keep a bottle handy at all times. One tip to stay fresh after a bath is to use a good quality prickly heat powder all over your skin and stay cool for the next 15-20 minutes. Hair scalp skin needs to be kept dry; don’t leave your hair damp during summer, otherwise your head will turn into a dwelling for lice.

Regardless of weather, all it takes are a few hours to rethink what you are eating, your lifestyle and some pampering that keep you and eventually your skin healthy. Give yourself a chance, happy summer!