It’s easy enough to care for your skin at home. But what do you do when you’re out on vacation? We bring you tips to look beautiful even on your vacation in the rains.
by Deepa Mistry
Indian monsoons are truly beautiful; the green spread soothes the stressed mind; dust is washed away, as is the heat-induced weariness of people, but when it pours cats and dogs, some might prefer to cosy up in the house and enjoy the rains. But we also love to be adventurous in this season and take mini breaks.
However, the monsoon plays havoc with your skin and hair. Add to that the change in climate and location on your holiday, and you end up looking like something the cat brought in. But if you follow some simple tips, you can look pretty on your vacation and enjoy great skin and hair, too.
Manage those tresses
– Climate change can cause hair to go limp. Avoid tying them for too long, especially if they are wet. Wet hair can cause dandruff and itchiness, which causes hair fall. Carry a handy towel and a wide-toothed brush to avoid tangles. Add a playful look to your hair by using accessories like hair bands, colourful clips and pins.
– Good cleansing and conditioning is essential, so make sure you carry a mild shampoo and conditioner.
– Try a loose bun, loose hair, loose side pony tail and protect your hair from exposure to humidity. Rains can dampen your hair but avoid using hair styling products like blow dryers or styling iron. Let your hair dry naturally.
– If you decide to walk in the rains, wear a jacket with a hoodie or carry a trendy and colourful umbrella to add a glam touch.
Footloose
– Avoid wearing closed shoes. Skip the leather boots and high heels and opt for colourful rubber flip flops, but avoid walking in dirty water as it might cause fungal infections. Open footwear makes it easier for water and dirt to seep out, keeping feet still fresh.
– Make sure you wash your feet with clean water after you get indoors. Pat feet dry. 
– After drying your feet, apply some talcum powder and air your feet for a while.
– Before going to sleep, apply moisturizer on your feet. This helps you get rid of the dead skin and keeps feet clean, smooth, and allergy-free.
– Get a pedicure before your trip. Keep nails trimmed.
If your footwear is soaked in rainwater, make sure you dry it before use the next day. Damp shoes offer a breeding ground to bacteria and germs, which ultimately lead to infection.
– If you are headed for the mountains, you might have to wear socks and shoes. Apply talcum powder inside your socks before you wear them, this will help feet stay fresh and help avoid smelly feet.
Skin care
– Drink as much as water you want, don’t worry about the frequent urination. Water will keep your body hydrated and add a freshness on your face.
– Moisturising is very essential, so before you sleep also apply lots of moisturiser to keep skin soft.
– Use lots of sunscreen before you head out, even if it’s pouring outside.
– Go easy on the makeup. If you must use a lipstick, we recommend a long-stay water resistant one. Opt for bright pinks or coral and avoid lip gloss. Add a dramatic touch to your eyes by opting for colours like blue, purple and green as they are the best colours this season.
– Stay away from heavy and creamy skin products. Go for a good quality oil-free matte primer, and a light oil-free base.
– Sheer film of light brown, beige, pastel or pink cream eye shadow can be used along with a thick line of eyeliner. Avoid liquid liners; opt for a pencil eyeliner or kajal instead.
We hope our tips help you on your monsoon break. But remember to also eat and drink right for an extra fabulous monsoon vacation!
(Pictures courtesy www.personal.psu.edu, him.uk.msn.com, www.eveorganics.com.au, blog.docsuggest.com)