The long winter months have left their mark on our skin health. With strong winds, dry weather, and a disrupted moisture balance, we are now entering summer. The last days of spring offer us an opportunity to prepare our skin for summer.

Summer brings with it pleasant times, but it also poses certain risks for our skin. Increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight, hot weather, sweating and environmental pollution can threaten our skin health. Dr. Nalan Kükürt, dermatologist at Medline Adana Hospital, says that it is necessary to take extra care of your skin during the summer months and offers practical and effective tips that are easy to follow.

Don't go outside without using sunscreen.

The biggest enemy of the skin in summer is the intense sunrays. The sun's harmful UV rays can cause premature ageing, blemishes and even skin cancer. Therefore, it is very important to apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 15-20 minutes before going outside. It is also important to remember that the sunscreen must be renewed every 2-3 hours.

Don't neglect skin cleansing

Sweat, makeup and external environmental conditions clog skin pores, causing black spots and acnes. Therefore, it is necessary to wash the skin twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, with a suitable cleanser. It is best to choose a cleanser that is suitable for your skin type, alcohol-free and moisturising.

Use a moisturising cream

During the summer months, most people stop using moisturisers due to the heat. However, the skin also needs moisture in summer. You can keep your skin moisturised by choosing light, water-based, oil-free moisturisers. Moisturisers containing aloe vera soothe and refresh the skin, especially after exposure to the sun.

Don't forget after-sun care

Staying in the sun for long periods of time dries out and irritates the skin. Therefore, after-sun care is vital. Using moisturising lotions and cooling gels after showering helps the skin to recover.

Pay attention to your nutrition

Skin health is not only protected by external applications; it also needs to be supported from within. Eating plenty of vegetables and fruits during the summer months provides the skin with the necessary vitamins and antioxidants. Foods with high water content, such as carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers and watermelons, are particularly good for the skin. Stay away from processed foods such as crisps, chocolate and fizzy drinks.

Wear light-coloured and cotton clothes.

The clothes you wear also affect your skin health. In summer, choose light-coloured, loose-fitting, cotton clothing. Synthetic fabrics do not absorb sweat and can cause skin irritation. Wearing a hat and sunglasses is also beneficial for both skin and eye health.

Reduce your make-up

Wearing heavy make-up in the summer prevents the skin from getting air. Instead, it is healthier to use light BB creams, tinted moisturisers or just sunscreen. At night, make-up must be removed and the skin must be allowed to rest.

Drink plenty of water

High temperatures increase water loss from the body through sweating. This causes the skin to dry out, become dull and lose its elasticity. Drinking at least two to two and a half litres of water a day keeps your skin moisturised and healthy. In addition, water helps eliminate toxins from the body, thereby preventing acne formation.

Observe sleep hygiene

Another way to maintain healthy skin is through quality sleep. The skin renews itself during sleep. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you get 7-8 hours of sleep per day. In addition, stress can cause acnes and redness on the skin by affecting hormones. You can reduce stress by walking, meditating or pursuing hobbies.