4 Steps to Protect Your Skin from the Hot Sun

Protect your skin

The hot weather in several regions of Indonesia, particularly Jabodetabek, has raised concerns about its potential impact on health, protect your skin. Dr. Arini Astasari Widodo, a dermatology specialist from the University of Indonesia’s Faculty of Medicine, emphasizes the importance of safeguarding your skin during sunny, hot weather.

Failure to take proper care of your skin during these conditions can lead to various significant effects, including dry and flaky skin. Furthermore, hot weather can influence skin conditions and trigger flare-ups of pre-existing skin conditions.

Here are some steps you can take to protect your skin from the scorching sun:

Use Moisturizer

The first step to protect your skin is using a moisturizer. Hot weather can lead to skin dehydration. Dr. Arini advises that using moisturizer in a hot climate is crucial for maintaining skin health. During hot weather, the skin becomes more susceptible to dehydration due to factors such as sun exposure and excessive sweating.

Moisturizers play a role in reducing the risk of irritation and preventing skin dehydration by locking in moisture. Dr. Arini reminds the public to choose a moisturizer that suits their skin type and needs.

Apply Sunscreen

The use of sunscreen is vital for safeguarding your skin in scorching weather. Dr. Arini notes that sunscreen plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from two types of solar radiation: UVA and UVB. To shield your skin from UVA rays, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is necessary. 

Such a spectrum contains specific filters like avobenzone, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide, which can reduce UVA rays’ ability to damage collagen and elastin and prevent premature aging signs, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Skin can be protected from the harmful effects of UVB rays by applying sunscreen with Sun Protection Factor (SPF). Sunscreen effectively helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of skin cancer due to UVB radiation.

Post-Sun Exposure Care

The next step involves skin care after sunbathing or sun exposure. Dr. Arini points out that such care can alleviate the adverse effects of sun exposure on the skin. After-sun skin care may involve the use of cooling and soothing products like aloe vera gel or post-sun lotions, which help reduce redness, inflammation, and discomfort.

Physical Protection

The last method to safeguard your skin from the hot weather involves physical protection for your entire body, not just your skin. Sun exposure can affect your body as a whole. Dr. Arini recommends using an umbrella, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and managing sweat to protect your body physically.

These steps can help you preserve your skin’s health and well-being in the current hot weather conditions. Remember to stay hydrated and take the necessary precautions to ensure your skin remains healthy and resilient.