Summer skin care tips: Protect your skin from the sun, prevent pigmentation

Sunscreen benefits: A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays, preventing premature ageing and sunburn. Look for SPF 30 or higher and apply it on all exposed areas (Image: Canva)

It’s that time of the year again when you can enjoy everything cool; from icecreams to airconditioners. Well! This is also the time when you need to figure out ways to deal with the soaring temperature in order to protect your skin. Because sun exposure is one of the biggest culprits behind skin issues like melasma, sun spots, and uneven skin tone.

Sun in summers triggers skin problems. Preventing sun damage requires a combination of smart skincare choices and lifestyle habits, says Dr Ameesha Mahajan, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Founder, Eden Skin Clinic. “While applying sunscreen is the first and most important step in protecting your skin, it’s not the only thing you should rely on,” she adds.

Your skin should be a top priority in summer if you want to deal with pigmentation or just want to keep your skin healthy, says Dr Mahajan. She suggests the following strategies to shield your skin from harmful UV rays:

Also read | Summer skin care: Beauty must-dos to keep you skin and hair woes away

Skincare tips: Factors like sweating, swimming, and prolonged exposure can wear it off, making reapplication every two hours just as important as the initial application (Image: Canva)

• Sunscreen and more: Sunscreen is a must-have, but it's not enough on its own. “The sun emits UVA and UVB rays, both of which can harm your skin in different ways; UVA rays speed up ageing , while UVB rays cause sunburns and increase the risk of pigmentation. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential to protect against both types of rays. However, factors like sweating, swimming, and prolonged exposure can wear it off, making reapplication every two hours just as important as the initial application,” advises Dr Mahajan.

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen: Not all sunscreens are created equal. "A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays, preventing premature ageing and sunburn. Look for SPF 30 or higher and apply it on all exposed areas, including your face, hands, ears, and neck,” she explains.

• Tinted sunscreens: For those prone to hyperpigmentation, tinted sunscreens may work better. "Tinted sunscreens contain iron oxide, which helps protect against visible light—a known trigger for pigmentation in deeper skin tones. Look for physical sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for added protection,” says Dr Mahajan.

• Reapply sunscreen: Sunscreen doesn’t last all day, tells the doctor. “Sweat, rubbing, and natural breakdown reduce its effectiveness. If you're outdoors, swimming, or sweating, make sure to reapply every two hours. If you wear makeup, use powder or spray sunscreensfor easy touch-ups,” she adds.

• Protective clothing and accessories: Clothing acts as a physical barrier against UV rays. Dr Mahajan suggests wearing long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses to protect delicate areas like the eyes and face.

• Avoid peak sun hours: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM, cautions Dr Mahajan. “If possible, plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and seek shade when outside,” she says.

• Skincare products with antioxidants: Antioxidants help fight free radical damage caused by UV exposure. "Using a Vitamin C serum in the morning under your sunscreen can boost protection and prevent pigmentation," recommends Dr Mahajan, adding, “Other effective antioxidants include niacinamide and resveratrol.”

• Keep your skin moisturised: According to Dr Mahajan, a hydrated skin is less prone to inflammation and hyperpigmentation. “Look for moisturisers containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or centella asiatica to keep your skin barrier strong,” she says.

• Professional skin treatments: If pigmentation persists despite preventive measures, professional treatments may help. "Chemical peels, laser therapy, and microneedling can effectively treat sun-induced pigmentation," says Dr Mahajan. However, maintaining sun protection post-treatment is just as important to prevent recurrence.