As the heat rises, our beauty melts. It is very important to pay extra care on our skin during summer. People have a false idea that it is a very difficult task to maintain healthy skin during summer season. Therefore they tend to neglect on simple facts of skin care. Here are few tips that can be followed to avoid the heat and at the same time enjoy the warmth of summer in a healthy way.

• Drink plenty of water. This will not only renew the moisture lost but also helps to flush out toxins from the body thereby keeping the skin fresh and shiny.

• Drink a glass of milk everyday. It supplies nutrients to the skin and prevents skin from drying out. It acts as a natural moisturizer to the skin.

• Have a balanced light diet. Stay out of spicy or sour foods to avoid the problem of indigestion. Include fresh vegetables like carrots, leafy vegetables, tomatoes etc. They provide essential nutrients to the skin act as an antioxidant and give a cooling effect to the skin.

• Take plenty of juicy fruits like grapes, watermelon, pears, mangoes, etc., these not only nourish the skin but also act as a natural cleanser. It is always better to substitute coffee or other caffeinated beverages with herbal or spice tea. Herbs and spices like fresh ginger, mint, basil, cardamom, fennel etc add flavor to the dish as well as aids in digestion of food.

• Get adequate sleep for a clear healthy skin and sparkling eyes. Follow the old folk′s rule of "Early to bed and early to rise".

• Adopt good cleansing techniques. Look for skin friendly herbs like sandalwood, turmeric, amla, aloe vera etc and include fruit facials at least once a week. Moisturize the skin with a good formulated moisturizer.

• It is good to shower twice a day during summer. This will keep the body cool and relaxed and will help you get rid of the dirt accumulated due to sweat.

• Avoid going out during the hottest time of the day. On unavoidable occasions, take extra care on the skin to prevent it from the UV rays.

• Wear a sunscreen lotion with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply it every two hours.

• Select light clothes, long sleeved shirts and a hat to avoid direct exposure to sun rays. Use of umbrella, hat, sun glasses etc., can guard the skin and eyes from the sun.