Set against India’s tandoor-like summers, this piece outlines a no-fuss skincare plan for men: gentle cleansing, limited exfoliation, cooling the face with ice or cold water, and using oil-free moisturisers with high-SPF sunscreen reapplied regularly. It further stresses clean pillowcases, lukewarm showers after workouts, light makeup use, and consistent hydration to keep skin clear and comfortable.
I'd be lying if I said that the summer is the best time of the year. Anyone who remotely believes that needs to take a dunk in cold water and come to their senses. Also, dunking yourself in cold-water sounds like the best remedy for the season, actually.
The weather feels as though the entire world has been shoved into one giant tandoor. So, while we'd love live and breathe by the poolside right now —letting cool water do what dignity and air-conditioning can only partially manage—it’s simply not an option for mammals like us, who unfortunately still have to participate in “life” and occasionally step outside to experience the sun’s personal vendetta.
So, what you can do best for your skin is the ultimate summer care. The mantra for the last leg of the sweltering season is still less is more.
First things first, don't think about a long, multi-product skincare routine. You will melt worse than a candle. Instead, stick to something simple and effective. What it means is a baseline regimen will do well. And second, ask yourself if your pillowcase is clean or not. It is an underrated skincare tools that's often overlooked.
Here's the best summer skincare routine for Indian men:
Start With a Facewash obviously. Use a gentle gel-based face wash or the one that best suits you and your skin type. Not only will it remove dirt and open your blocked pores but also wipe off existential regret.
You can also add an exfoliator in the mix twice a week to get the hard gunk out.
Dip your face in ice water for 1-2 mins. It tightens, refreshes, and briefly convinces your skin that life is manageable. If full immersion feels dramatic, even a cold splash or ice-cube massage will do the job.
Moisturise your face. A water-based, oil-free moisturiser keeps your skin calm without turning it into a reflective surface.
Of course, no skincare routine is going to be completely without a good sunscreen. Go for SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum. Apply generously, not ceremonially. Reapply every few hours.
In the night, use can consider adding a serum or spot treatment cream to your routine.
Here are some reminders as tips for Indian men braving it through the summer:
Drink ample amount of water everyday. Your body will thank you sincerely.
High humidity breeds sweat-trapping bacteria. Take lukewarm showers and rinse off immediately post-workout to avoid body acne.
If you use make-up, keep it light or stick to skin tints.