Don't Sweat It!

An itchy rash or sunburnt skin can deter you from getting the most of your gym time or beachside vacay. But don’t sweat it! Here are a few common skin issues caused by sweat and Lanka’s tropical humidity. And we know exactly how you can target and prevent them to make the most of your summer!

- Lakshika Pinto

Acne breakouts

When your sweat mixes with the bacteria and natural oils on your skin, your pores can get clogged. If your skin is particularly acne-prone, more often than not, a good sweat sesh at the gym is bound to result in breakouts.

To help prevent acne try:

•Blotting the sweat on your skin with a clean towel or muslin cloth. Avoid wiping motions. This actually irritates your skin, leading to a higher possibility of a breakout.

•Always wash sweaty clothes, headbands, towels, and any other item of clothing that may have come into contact with your sweat, before you plan on wearing them again. •Use non-comedogenic products on your face, neck, back, and chest. The label may also say “oil free” or “won’t clog pores.”

Dry, irritated skin

Surprisingly enough, you can still suffer from dry and irritated skin even when the air outside is hot and humid. The biggest causes are spending time in the sun, pool, and in air-conditioning.

When your skin starts feeling dry and irritated despite the humidity, try the following:

• Shower and shampoo immediately after getting out of the pool, using fresh, clean water and a mild cleanser or body wash. The Lotus Softening Body Cleanser by Spa Ceylon leaves skin feeling smooth, soft and smells like a treat!

• Apply sunscreen before going outdoors, using one that offers broad-spectrum water-resistant protection with a minimum of SPF 30+. A personal favourite is the Shiseido Sunscreen with WetForce Technology.

• Always use a mild cleanser to wash your skin. Soaps and body washes with the words “antibacterial” or “deodorant” on their labels tend to dry your skin.

• Take showers and baths in warm water instead of hot water.