Many women in Bhubaneswar are opting for face masks to protect their skin from the humidity and heat. Picture by Sanjib Mukherjee

Bhubaneswar, May 4: With the swing in mood of the weather from scorching heat to humid and sultry afternoons, women in the city are already taking measures to keep their skin free of all the blemishes, sun burns and pimples that the season brings. In fact, even men are making sure that their skin is safe from sun damage. And why not, when beauty experts from different parts of the country are making rounds at beauty salons in the city that are offering a multitude of solutions for summer skin care.

Parlours in the city are providing some cool face masks, perfect for the unusual summer this time. From sandal to cucumber to essential oils, the facial sessions promise relief from acne, pimples and more.

“Everyday, coming out in the sun during summers, no matter how mild the heat is, forces multiple aggression such as UV rays and atmospherical pollution on the skin. This triggers the creation of free radicals leading to premature skin ageing,” said beauty expert Darshini Sanghvi, who was recently in the city for a beauty session. “With each successive sun exposure, the skin’s structure is affected in depth adding more dark spots and pimples on the face,” she said.

“Therefore, going for daily application of cosmetics that have high SPF values is a must. But one also needs regular sessions of face massage or application of natural elements to nourish and enrich the skin. Men should also make sure they take care of their skin during summers,” she said.

Fruit facials are the choice in the city say beauticians. “Water melon, cucumber or papaya puree blended with yoghurt or honey and lemon juice for oily skin or rosewater for dry skin are among the special face packs that offer skin solutions during summers,” says Gita Das, a beautician. Herbal moisturisers such as, sandalwood, turmeric, brahmi, amla and aloe vera are also getting popular among both women and men, she feels.

Homemakers, working men and women and students can be seen dropping in at the salons once a while.

“With the growing pollution in the city, summers are always a tension. Though the sun has not been so harsh this time, sun tans and sun burns are still a threat. So I take out time to visit a nearby parlour that offers fruit facials at affordable prices,” says Pragyan Mishra, a homemaker.

“Moving around for tuitions and college makes it a must for me to go for summer special facials every week,” says Sampurna Rout, a student.

Summer special facials and beauty sessions are priced at Rs 400 onwards. These are available at beauty centres such as, New Leaf, Presidency Spa, Mayfair Spa and so on.