Due to changing weather patterns and increased exposure to environmental toxins, our skin and hair confront particular challenges when the seasons changes

Due to changing weather patterns and increased exposure to environmental toxins, our skin and hair confront particular challenges when the seasons change, especially during this time of the year. To properly handle these changes, we must modify our skincare and hair care regimens. These professional tips and advice can help you keep your skin and hair healthy throughout these periods.

Understanding Seasonal Impacts

A change in the weather frequently occurs over the holiday season, increasing humidity and exposing people to toxins from things like fireworks. The health of both skin and hair may be negatively impacted by these variables.

The change in weather, paired with makeup, pollutants, and erratic schedules, can take a toll on your skin, leaving it dull and tired.  Excessive sweating and increased oil production can cause acne, clogged pores, and sunburns.

Skincare Adjustments

• Gentle Cleansing: With increased exposure to pollutants, it's essential to cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove impurities. Use a gentle cleanser twice daily to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
• Antioxidant Protection: Pollutants can lead to free radical damage, causing premature aging. Incorporate antioxidant-rich serums into your routine to combat this effect.
• Moisturization: Despite the humidity, maintaining skin hydration is crucial. Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers to keep your skin supple without clogging pores.
• Sun Protection: Even during festive seasons, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen is vital to shield your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging, sunburns, hyperpigmentation, and long-term skin damage.
• Cleansing is crucial: Use a gentle cleanser twice daily and apply an antioxidant-rich serum to protect your skin from free radical damage. Moisturizing and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, even indoors, is essential.

Hair Care Adjustments

• Protective Measures: Exposure to pollutants can make hair dry and brittle. Using leave-in conditioners or oils can create a protective barrier for the hair and scalp.
• Gentle Handling: Avoid excessive heat styling and frequent shampooing during festive periods to prevent further dryness and damage.
• Regular Trimming: Keeping hair ends healthy through regular trims can prevent split ends and maintain hair vitality.

Similarly, hair tends to become dry and brittle due to pollutants. Using leave-in conditioners or oils can create a protective barrier for the hair and scalp.

Holistic Care

Beyond topical treatments, overall wellness plays a significant role in skin and hair health.

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin elasticity and hair strength.
• Balanced Diet: Consuming a diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall skin and hair health.
• Adequate Rest: Proper sleep allows the body to repair and rejuvenate, reflecting positively on skin and hair.

If you eat a well-balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and get plenty of rest, it will automatically show on your skin and hair. Maintaining their health requires modifying your skincare and hair care regimens to coincide with seasonal shifts and celebratory events.

Seasonal change

Indian summers (March–June) bring intense heat and humidity, leading to various skin and hair concerns. Excessive sweating and increased oil production can cause acne, clogged pores, and sunburns. Prolonged sun exposure also results in tanning, dehydration, and pigmentation. Skin tends to become dull and sensitive, requiring lightweight, oil-free moisturizers, sunscreen, and regular hydration. Hair also suffers in summer, becoming greasy, frizzy, and prone to dandruff due to sweat and humidity. The scalp may feel itchy, and excessive washing can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage. UV exposure can further weaken hair, causing color fading and split ends. To combat these issues, it is essential to use mild, sulfate-free shampoos, hydrating hair masks, and protective hairstyles. Drinking plenty of water, maintaining a balanced diet, and using cooling skincare ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber help keep skin and hair fresh, healthy, and nourished during summer.

Understanding Seasonal Impacts

A change in the weather frequently occurs over the holiday season, increasing humidity and exposing people to toxins from things like fireworks. The health of both skin and hair may be negatively impacted by these variables.

The change in weather, paired with makeup, pollutants, and erratic schedules, can take a toll on your skin, leaving it dull and tired.

The change in weather, paired with makeup, pollutants, and erratic schedules, can take a toll on your skin, leaving it dull and tired.

— By Dr Karuna Malhotra, Aesthetic Physician & Cosmetologist