It’s the time of the year when the weather slowly changes from chilly to hot. As winter gives way to summer your body goes through the most damaging period and without a proper wellness regime you won’t be able to fight the unfriendly climate. “During the season you are more prone to viral infections. Most people suffer from ailments like runny nose, cold, cough, sore throat, flu, itchy skin and allergies. They may not seem like serious health issues and may look silly, but if you don’t treat these ailments properly they can develop into more dangerous ones,” says Dr S Smitha, physician. Moreover this is the time when diseases like arthritis and asthma aggravate due to the sudden change in climate.
There is no way to keep you completely safe from a contagious disease but you can always take precautionary measures and maintain good hygiene. “Wash your hands frequently. This can prevent most of the winter bugs and stop the spreading of flu and related problems. If there is some practical difficulty carry an antibacterial hand sanitiser with you,” says the doctor. You should also stick to healthy habits like having a nutritious diet and getting enough sleep. To fight the general weakness and dullness drink lots of water and increase your daily intake of green, red, yellow and white vegetables. “You can eat all the seasonal fruits, especially those packed with vitamin C which will strengthen your immune system,” she says.
This is also the time when your skin feels moisture deprived and your hair goes frizzy. “The biggest problem of the season is that it leaves your skin extremely dry. In some cases, other than making the skin tight and uncomfortable there can be other issues like flaking and cracking,” says Aji Saju, skincare expert. Slapping on some moisturiser will not do any good to your skin in the long run. You will have to choose the right one as during winters more than coating your skin the cream should replenish it. “The skin on your face is softer and more sensitive so use different creams for face and body, but always make sure that your skin gets enough nourishment,” says Aji. Make sure that you hydrate your skin at least two times a day to sooth it and keep it supple. But if your skin woes continue you need medical attention and should consult a dermatologist. Always remember that it is the season when skin problems and allergies aggravate. If you thought sunscreen is for summers, you are wrong. In India it’s ideal to use sunscreen in all the seasons. “Protecting your skin from sun damage is really important. Apply a layer of sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply after three hours depending on the product you use and repeat the process if you stay outside for a long time,” she says.
Aji also adds that avoiding harsh cleansers and hot showers will be good. “Cleansers can wipe out water from your skin, so switch to a cream based cleanser to remove makeup,” she says. Hot water showers too have the same effect on your skin, they will make your skin drier. You need not go for ice cold water, but try sticking to lukewarm temperature. It will be ideal to apply the moisturiser immediately after the shower. Another problem areas this season are frizzy hair and chapped lips. Using hair drier will make your hair more brittle so always try to towel dry it. You can also go for protein massages and other treatments to keep your hair soft and shiny. “Chapped lips need immediate damage control. So instead of any lip balm go for one with healing agents. Carry it with you always and use it whenever your lips go dry and always remember to use it before going to bed.” Along with all the tips proper exercise is also required to stay fit and active during the season. If you don’t want to hit the gym invest in a fitness equipment. You can always join yoga and classes or try out meditation so that your mind also stays calm and composed.