Summer is pounding on Qatar and it is here to stay. This is the time when our skin,which is most exposed to the summer heat and dust, needs special care. When I walked in after spending a few minutes out in sun (watering my plants), I noticed red rashes on my exposed skin. This made me realize everyone is definitely experiencing similar problems in this scorching summer heat. Are you noticing red rashes, sun burns, dryness or any skin infirmities? Here are some after effective tips to try after being out on a sunny day in Qatar.

The first and foremost thing to do before leaving the house at sunny hours of the day is to apply a generous amount of sunscreen on your exposed skin. Sunscreen protects the skin by reflecting or absorbing the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Prolonged exposure to sun rays causes various skin diseases including skin cancer and premature ageing. Doctors highly recommend, both adults and children, to use sunscreen ranging from SPF 30 to SPF 50 before stepping in the sun. SPF means ‘Sun Protection Factor’ which determines how strong the sunscreen is and how long after application it will protect the skin in the sun. In Qatar, it is very important to use sunscreen in summer, so here is a list of affordable and easily available sunscreens in the market.

• Nivea sunscreen SPF 30

Provides immediate UVA and UVB protection to the skin with an added benefit of being water resistant. Suitable for daily use as it is not thick and is non sticky. This sunscreen contains parabens. It is found easily in nearby stores and costs Qr.45.

• VLCC SPF 60+++ (also available in SPF 25 and SPF 40)

This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and provide protection from broad spectrum UVA and UVB. It is semi-thick and ideal for long duration sun exposure but not water resistant. It moisturizes the skin and prevents tanning. This product is also widely available in Doha with a price ranging from Qr.40 to Qr.50.

• Neutrogena Ultrasheer dry touch SPF 30

Provides broad spectrum protection from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. It protects from skin darkening, sun burns and age spots and contains the exclusive Helioplex technology and is perfect for all skin types. This sunscreen is water resistant, oil free and sweat proof. The major advantage being it resists rub off. It is available in pharmacies in Doha and its price is Qr.54.

• Sebamed sunscreen SPF 50

This product is for sensitive skin types and has a thick consistency for better protection of the skin. It guards the skin from UVA and UVB rays and prevents tan, skin discoloration and spots on skin. It is scent free and water resistant as well. This sunscreen is available in any store or pharmacies in Qatar with price of Qr.45.

• Banana Boat sunscreen

This is the least expensive sunscreen in the markets of Doha with being Qr.20 only and is available almost in every pharmacy or departmental store. It is sweat resistant and protects against UVA and UVB rays. Perfect for all skin types, it is non greasy and oil free.

• Beesline ultrascreen cream (invisible sunfilter) SPF 50+

As the name suggests, this sunscreen contains some amount of honey extract and is rich in anti-oxidants as it is especially formulated to protect sensitive skin types. It protects the skin against premature ageing, spots and redness. It has a light consistency and is available in any of the pharmacies in Doha with price being more than Qr. 100.

• Avene SPF 30 and SPF 50

This sunscreen is suitable for sensitive skin mainly and is of fluid consistency hence highly absorbent and comes in a tube pump. This sunscreen is available in any branch of Al Danah pharmacy and its price is more than Qr.100.

You need not always opt for store bought products to take care of your skin. If you intend to use effectual home remedies, here is a list of natural methods you can follow after coming indoors from the scorching sun.

• Roll ice in a cotton cloth and gently massage over the affected skin or any area that was exposed to the sun as this is the fastest way to treat and get relief from sunburns.

• Place sliced cucumber pieces over the sun burnt areas to relieve the skin irritation and soothe the skin.

• Immerse a cloth in cold milk, drain it and gently massage or leave atop the red rashes to slowly cool down the affected skin area.

• Use Aloe Vera - the ‘miracle plant’ as it is quite effective for any skin infirmities including skin discoloration due to being exposed to long hours in the sun. Apply and massage the squeezed aloe vera sap and leave it on for 20 minutes before washing it off.

• Boil green tea leaves, mint and water. Soak a fabric in this chilled mixture and wipe gently on red rashes.

• Staying out in the sun for long causes skin to become tanned which can be treated by applying grated potato pulp all over the tanned skin.

Third, it is very important to keep yourself hydrated in summer for the skin to look fresh and supple. Exposure to sun causes skin to become dry which in turn may cause redness, tan or sunburns. So drink plenty of water and keep water handy while being outdoors. Do not substitute hot or cold beverages with water as they are not effective in avoiding dehydration.

Finally, it is highly advisable that you cover your skin more adequately while going out including wearing shades to protect eyes. It is commonly recommended to stay indoors during the daytime and to postpone going out as much as possible during peak times of the day between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the heat and ultraviolet rays are the most powerful and highly harmful to the skin. A healthy skin is also a visible sign of an individual’s health it is required to be protected.

How do you take care of your skin in the summer? Share your secret tips with us.

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