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Beauty Basics with Shahnaz Husain

by Shahnaz Husain
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Summertime is here, it’s time for beach days, pool parties, travel and vacations. Summer holidays are synonymous with sunshine and outdoor adventures.  As heat and humidity rise, oil glands get hyperactive. Oily patches, rashes, pimples, sunburn, roughness, patchiness – they all make an appearance in this season.

Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a scenic mountain retreat, or simply enjoying staycations with friends and family, looking and feeling your best can make all the difference. 

To help you shine from the inside out, here are some tips that may help your hair and skin “holiday-ready.”

1. Prep your skin for the sun: Preparing your skin for the sun before prolonged exposure is an important step for the skin that we too often forget. One of the best ways to prepare your skin for the sun is to engage in numerous short exposures. Skin that hasn’t been exposed to the sun for a long time is even more vulnerable to the first UV rays it is exposed to.   

The more your skin is exposed to the sun, the more it dries out. And as it dries out, it becomes more vulnerable to UV rays, so nourish your skin with a good moisturizing cream to construct its protective layer. Although moisturizing cream does not protect skin from the sun, it can help limit its ravages.

2. Mind your diet: The foods you eat could help your skin stay protected from the harmful effects of the summer sun’s strong UV rays.   The first meal of the day can prep and protect your healthy summer glow when you are on vacation.

Include peppers, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, spinach, squash, broccoli, mangos, apricots, kale, peas, tomatoes and melon in your diet that are rich in beta-carotene and other carotenoids. 

The carotenoids found in red, orange, and yellow peppers not only provide excellent antioxidant properties, but they also contain 11 times more beta-carotene than green peppers. Foods that are rich in carotenoids add an orange tinge to your skin, which gives you a natural glow.

A combination of vitamins E and C protects the skin against UV damage. It is suggested that daily consumption of dietary polyphenols may provide efficient protection against the harmful effects of solar UV radiation in humans.

3. Travel Packing: Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a city escape, or a countryside retreat, Comfortable and versatile clothing is essential for a stress-free summer vacation.  Focus on versatile pieces that can be worn in multiple ways.

Lightweight T-shirts and tanks take up little space in your suitcase, making it easy to roll them up and pack four or five of one color to use throughout the trip.   It ensures that you can focus on your vacation rather than your attire, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip.

Don’t forget to pack a few key accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable sandals to complete your look. What is important is that you are comfortable in them in all your hours of travel.

4. Take care of your Hairs: Just like skincare, your hair needs special attention when you’re travelling. Moving from one climate to another can confuse your hair. Humidity, dry air, or extreme temperatures can cause frizz, dryness, or even breakage.

Changes in climate, water quality, and exposure to sun, humidity, or pollution can take a toll on your hair. The serum is the best way to keep your hair hydrated and conditioned during travelling. Hair serums help to protect your strands from sun damage and make them look sleek and shiny. Serum correctly can help to protect your hair from skin problems that occur while on a vacation.

When packing, opt for travel-sized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and styling products that suit your hair type. A leave-in conditioner or serum can be a lifesaver to combat dryness and frizz. Don’t forget essentials like a wide-toothed comb, microfiber towel, and silk scrunchies to minimize breakage.

Disclaimer: The opinions and views expressed in this article/column are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of South Asian Herald.

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