As temperatures rise and our calendars become full of sun-soaked activities, it is important to take a little extra care of our skin. Sun, heat, and humidity can do their worst to even the most routine-conscious, leaving us with something more than just a sun-kissed look. To get through the din of product suggestions and constantly shifting beauty trends, we approached none other than Dr Jaishree Sharad, a celebrated cosmetic dermatologist and CEO of the Skinfiniti Skin & Laser Clinic. With years of practice and a coveted clientele, Dr Sharad knows just what it takes to keep your skin radiant, in balance, and healthy throughout the hot summer months. From the easiest exchanges in your daily life to the hero products that need a permanent spot in your beach bag, her expert tips are designed for skin that actually loves being in the sun. Below, your go-to guide to summer skincare must-haves. Here are the most trusted summer skin care tips:
1. Stay Sun Safe
Cleanse twice a day with a ph-balanced face wash. Don’t step out without using a sunblock with SPF 50 and reapply every couple of hours if outdoors. Keep a bottle of thermal spring water in your handbag and spray on your face liberally. Skin tends to feel dry in summer, so keep an oil-free moisturiser or hydrating gel, or water-based skin lotion handy to apply on arms and legs, preferably when you step out of the shower and your skin is still damp.
Anti-Tanning Home Remedy: Apply a Vitamin C serum or a mixture of yoghurt and turmeric on the skin. It’s a good idea to also take oral Vitamin C to protect skin from free radical damage.
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2. Soothing A Sunburn
The best way to protect your skin is by wearing cotton clothes, wide-rimmed sunglasses and a hat. Umbrellas are also handy to prevent sunburn, tanning, pigmentation and allergic rashes. Skin damage from a sunburn may be minimal and show up as only a mild redness that rapidly heals, or be so severe as to cause blisters with fluid accumulation and peeling of large areas of skin. Visit a dermatologist without delay if this happens.
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3. Heat Rashes And Boils
Accumulation of sweat and dust can harbour bacterial infection, especially in hair follicles, resulting in boils. Use a deodorant containing Aluminium Oxide Hexahydrate to reduce body odour. Keep Tea Tree, Aloe or Mint-infused wet wipes handy to swipe on sweaty areas if you’re outdoors and wear clean, dry clothes in light cotton fabrics. It’s a good idea to dust prickly heat powder on underarms and intimate areas. Change out of sweaty clothes any chance you get. Soothe itchy skin by rubbing it with ice, Calamine or Aloe Vera lotion.
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4. Summer Hair Care
Always shampoo your hair after returning home from work or after a workout if you tend to sweat on your scalp. Make sure you don’t tie up wet hair; damp, wet hair is the perfect breeding ground for scalp infections and lice infestation.
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5. Keep Fungal Infections At Bay
If you’re prone to fungal infections in summer, dust some antifungal powder (Clotrimazole Dusting Powder, available at any chemist) after a shower on your feet, underarms, body folds and groin area.
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6. Sheet Masks To The Rescue!
Sheet masks are the answer to quick skin fixes in summer. Korean brands are the original sheet mask inventors and definitely worth a try. Sheet masks are soaked in vitamin and antioxidant-rich serums in the form of Pomegranate, Lime, Strawberry or even moisturisers like Shea Butter. These Korean face masks are contoured in the shape of a face. You are meant to apply and leave on 10 to 15 minutes as the active ingredients present in the sheet are transferred to the skin hydrating it or brightening it instantly, depending on the ingredients. These masks can be used by all age groups and are usually safe. Anti-ageing sheet masks containing Retinol should not be used if you have dry skin.
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7. Oxygen Jet Peel Therapy With Mesoporation
Oxygen therapy is based on the principle that all our body’s cells need oxygen to survive. During the session, the skin is refreshed with an oxygen jet that delivers concentrated oxygen with pressure for greater penetration. Metabolic waste and dead, dull cells are removed, followed by the application of Vitamin Serum with a mesoporation device so that it penetrates deeper layers of skin. The end result: Deeply rejuvenated, smooth skin with a visible reduction in fine lines and open pores. This lunchtime procedure should be repeated after 15 days for best results. It is extremely safe and has no side effects.
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8. Eat Right This Summer
It’s easy to get dehydrated in the summer, making us more susceptible to allergies and rashes. It’s extra important to stay well hydrated by drinking enough water and cutting down on coffee and soft drinks. Instead, drink tender coconut water, fresh fruit juices and buttermilk. Also, indulge your sweet tooth in a variety of brightly coloured fruits that are rich in antioxidants to fight skin-damaging free radicals. This is also a good time to stay away from unhygienic street food.
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Key Takeaways
As we finish our sun-kissed skincare deep dive, one thing is certain: summer beauty is not about layering products, but selecting the right ones with intent and accuracy. From shielding sunsticks and soothing rose water to moisturising lip balms that follow you wherever you go, every must-have does its job in making your skin shine and withstand. With the expert advice of Dr Jaishree Sharad, you're now ready to take on the season with confidence and a glow that's anything but coincidental.
FAQs
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What is the correct order to apply skincare products?
The general rule is to apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency: cleanser, toner, serum, eye cream, moisturiser, and finally sunscreen in the morning.
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How can I tell if a product is irritating my skin?
Signs of irritation include redness, stinging, breakouts, flaking, or a burning sensation. If this happens, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist if symptoms persist.
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Do I need sunscreen indoors or on cloudy days?
UVA rays can penetrate windows and cloud cover, contributing to premature ageing and skin damage. Daily sunscreen is a must, even when the sun isn’t shining bright.
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How long does it take for skincare products to show results?
Generally, it takes 4–6 weeks to start seeing visible changes, as that’s roughly how long the skin's natural regeneration cycle takes. Consistency is key.
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Can I use the same skincare products year-round?
Not always. Your skin's needs may change with the seasons. Summer may call for lighter, oil-free formulas, while winter might require richer, more nourishing products.
