5 Summer Skincare Habits Dermatologists Actually Recommend for Indian Skin

Let's face it, Indian summers can be merciless. Whether you're enduring Delhi's 45-degree dry heat, battling Mumbai's 90% humidity, or somewhere in between, your skin endures quite the challenge from April through July. Breakouts, persistent tan lines, morning oiliness by 8 AM, sunburns, pigmentation... you name it.

Thankfully, dermatologists have been sharing practical wisdom for years, and following their advice isn't terribly complicated or costly. The real struggle is maintaining consistency. So let's dive into five consistent habits dermatologists swear by, tailored for our unique climate and lifestyles.

1. Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable, and You're Probably Not Using Enough

This is advice you'll hear repeatedly, with good reason. UV radiation is remarkably intense in India throughout most of the year, peaking during summer. Sunscreen isn't just for beach days or special outings. It should be part of your daily routine, rain or shine.

Here are common misconceptions:

• Not using enough: You need about two fingers' worth for your face and neck alone. Most people skimp, which greatly reduces SPF protection.

• Skipping reapplication: When outdoors, reapply every two to three hours. A morning application isn't enough to cover the entire day.

• Believing SPF 15 is enough: SPF 30 is the minimum recommendation, ideally SPF 50 if outdoors for extended periods. Indian skin tones often face hyperpigmentation, so higher SPF is advisable.

• Neglecting it on cloudy days: UV rays penetrate clouds. During the pre-monsoon, when it feels cooler, don't skip sunscreen, as radiation remains present.

If greasiness or a white cast has deterred you from sunscreen, try newer gel-based or water-based options. The Lakme Sun Expert range offers budget-friendly options that work well in humid conditions. Don't skip it if you haven't already found a favorite.

2. Switch to a Lighter Moisturiser, But Don't Skip It

Many get this wrong in summer. Oily skin often leads to ditching moisturisers completely. Yet without moisture, your skin cranks up oil production, creating a vicious cycle.

The remedy isn't to stop moisturizing, but to lighten up. Thick creams that are perfect for winter can clog pores by noon in the heat. Consider gel moisturisers or water-based formulas featuring hyaluronic acid or niacinamide for hydration minus the weighty layer.

If you have combination or oily skin, a hydrating toner or essence might suffice post-cleansing. Tune into your skin's needs, not just what the label promises.

3. Double Down on Cleansing, Without Over-Cleansing

Sweat, sunscreen, pollution, and sebum accumulate on your skin daily in summer. A quick rinse before bed doesn't cut it.

Dermatologists often suggest double cleansing in the evening, particularly if you're using sunscreen or makeup. Start with micellar water or cleansing oil to dissolve product layers, followed by a gentle foaming or gel cleanser to reach the skin beneath.

Yet it's important: more cleansing doesn't mean harsher cleansing. Using a tough face wash three times daily strips your skin barrier, causing more harm than protection. Twice a day is generally sufficient, reserving double cleansing for evening routines.

For those commuting in Delhi or Mumbai traffic, your skin faces a lot. Thorough cleansing at night can be among the most impactful changes during summer.

4. Dial Back on Heavy Actives

This might surprise some. Summer heat heightens skin reactivity. If you've been using retinol, strong acids like glycolic or salicylic acid, be mindful of frequency during summer.

Excessive sun exposure with strong actives can lead to irritation, sensitivity, and worsen pigmentation, the opposite of most goals. Dermatologists often advise:

• Using retinol only at night, reducing usage to twice or thrice weekly if spending time outdoors.

• Avoiding multiple exfoliating acids in a single routine during peak summer.

• Applying sunscreen diligently with active ingredients, your skin becomes more photosensitive.

• Pay attention to your skin. If it's feeling sensitive or reactive, scale back. Your skin barrier has signals for you.

This doesn't mean abandoning skincare, it's about climate-smart adjustments.

5. Hydrate from the Inside, Not Just the Outside

You may have heard this before, but its significance for your skin is real. Dehydration during Indian summers is swift. Sweat drains water without obvious notice. Dehydrated bodies show on your skin, resulting in dullness, tightness, and accentuated fine lines.

Dermatologists often emphasize that no serum or moisturiser makes up for true dehydration. Proper skin function requires water, primarily from drinks and food.

Consider practical hydration tips:

• Place a water bottle in view at your desk. If unseen, it's forgotten.

• Consume water-rich foods. Cucumber, watermelon, curd, and coconut water are beneficial and part of our culinary traditions.

• Reduce caffeine and alcohol during peak summer months, as they dehydrate.

• If plain water bores you, add lemon, mint, or cucumber for a refreshing change in taste.

A Quick Word on Building a Sustainable Summer Routine

The best skincare routine is one you'll commit to daily. A ten-step regimen abandoned by week two is less valuable than a consistent four-step habit. Cleanser, moisturiser, sunscreen. That's your must-have trio. Everything else is extra.

There's no need to splurge. Quality sunscreens, gel moisturisers, and gentle cleansers can be found in the ₹300 to ₹800 range from brands like Lakme and Minimalist. Remember, expensive isn't always superior. Lighter, effective options often perform better in the summer.

The habits mentioned aren't fleeting fads. They're time-tested advice dermatologists reiterate because they genuinely deliver results. Start with one improvement this week, sunscreen, if not yet a habit, and gradually expand. Your skin will appreciate it by monsoon's arrival.