The summer sun is only beautiful from afar after the cold winter waves, and it definitely comes with a whole lot of skin problems. From sunburn and heat rash to flare-ups of underlying inflammatory conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, our skin tends to take the toll of the hot weather. While sunscreen and external treatments are essential, can the cooling beverages we grab to cool down also soothe inflamed skin from within?
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, we asked the same question to our expert, Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Department of Dermatology, Sharda Hospital - Noida. Here’s how he explained if or not summer drinks can truly heal and shield our skin.
What Is Skin Inflammation, And How Does Our Body React To It?
Before we dive into individual beverages, let's know what skin inflammation is. Dr Gulati explained that it's the natural reaction of the body to injury or irritation, marked by redness, swelling, heat, and perhaps pain. While acute inflammation is part of the healing process, chronic inflammation leads to different skin ailments and hastens ageing. “Triggers like UV radiation, environmental toxins, and internal dysregulation may set it off or make it worse,” he added.
How Hydration Sets the Foundation for Healthy Skin
The cornerstone of healthy skin, regardless of the season, is proper hydration. Dehydration can leave your skin dry, tight, and more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. Plain water is always the best choice, helping to flush out toxins and maintain the skin's barrier function. During summer, our fluid needs increase due to sweating, making consistent water intake even more critical.
Summer Drinks That Help Reduce Skin Inflammation
Although water is a must, some summer beverages contain ingredients with established anti-inflammatory properties that may be good for your skin. According to Dr Gulati, these may include:
1. Green Tea
Green tea is a ubiquitous drink that is full of polyphenols, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. EGCG has been shown to prevent UV-induced skin damage and inhibit inflammation linked to diseases such as acne and rosacea. Choose unsweetened options to reap the maximum health benefits.
2. Turmeric Lattes (Iced or Spiced)
Turmeric has curcumin in it, a highly effective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substance. Though usually taken hot, iced turmeric lattes with non-dairy milk and a few grains of black pepper (to increase the absorption of curcumin) can be a soothing and complexion-friendly summer snack.
3. Berry Smoothies
Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries contain antioxidants called anthocyanins that possess noteworthy anti-inflammatory properties. Mix them up in a smoothie with yoghurt or plant milk for an infusion of hydration and tasty doses of skin-nourishing nutrients. Adding such ingredients as flaxseed or chia seed can complement the anti-inflammatory value with their omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Cucumber and Mint Infused Water
Cucumbers possess cooling and hydrating qualities, while mint provides a refreshing flavor and antioxidants. Adding these to your water not only makes it more enjoyable to drink but also offers mild anti-inflammatory effects.
5. Aloe Vera Juice
Calming from the Inside: Familiar for its external calming effect on sunburns, aloe vera juice can have internal benefits as well. It has chemical constituents that can quell inflammation and facilitate healing. Select pure unsweetened aloe vera juice and drink moderately.
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Key Considerations and Caveats
Although these beverages provide promise, Dr Gulati warns that it's essential to have proper expectations:
They are not a cure: Summer drinks should be seen as a complementary approach to managing skin inflammation, not a replacement for prescribed medications or proper sun protection.
Sugar is the enemy: Avoid sugary drinks, including many commercially available juices and sodas, as they can promote inflammation throughout the body, potentially worsening skin conditions.
Different responses for different people: What's healthy for one might not be the same for another. Observe how your skin responds to various drinks.
Moderation is essential: Even healthier drinks must be had in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet.
See a dermatologist: If you have recurring or intense skin inflammation, it is crucial to see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Bottomline
Adding some antioxidant and hydrating summer beverages to your diet can be a tasty and potentially rewarding means of bolstering skin well-being and fighting inflammation from the inside out. Keep in mind that hydration, sun protection, and a well-balanced way of life are the fundamentals of healthy skin, and these refreshing drinks may be a healthy addition to your overall wellness regimen.