New Delhi, 9 April 2025: As soon as the summer season arrives, skin care becomes a challenge. While most people are troubled by sweat and oily skin, there are some whose skin becomes dry and lifeless even in this season. Chapped lips, cracked heels and stretch marks on the face—these problems do not leave even in summer. If you are also wondering why this is happening, then it is important to know what are the reasons behind it. With the help of dermatologists, we have brought for you five major causes of dry skin in summer and their easy remedies.

1. Lack of water: Body moisture disappears

It is common to have dehydration in the body due to sweat in summer. If you do not drink enough water, its effect is first seen on the skin. Delhi-based dermatologist Dr. Neha Sharma explains, “Due to lack of water in the body, the skin loses its natural moisture, which leads to chapped lips and increased dryness.”
The solution? Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily. If plain water is not your cup of tea, try nimbu paani, coconut water or fruits like cucumber and watermelon. “I increased fruits in my diet, and saw a difference in a week,” says Shalini Verma, an office worker from Noida.

2. Nutrient deficiencies: Impact on glow
   Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can also make the skin dry. Deficiencies of vitamins E, B and zinc not only make the skin lose its glow but also make it look prematurely aged. “People eat light food in summers but do not pay attention to nutrition. This is harmful for the skin,” says Dr Anil Mehta, a Mumbai-based nutritionist.

The solution is to include green vegetables, nuts and fruits in your diet. This will not only reduce dryness but will also keep the skin young.

3. Excessive use of AC: The enemy of moisture
   People spend hours in AC to get relief from the heat, but it takes away the moisture from the skin. Constant cold air dries out the skin’s natural oils, leading to itching, irritation and chapped lips. “I have an AC on all day in my office. After a few days, my skin became so dry that even creams didn’t work,” says Priya Rao, an IT professional from Bangalore.

To avoid this, drink water and apply a light moisturizer while in the AC. Keeping a humidifier in the room can also be beneficial.

4. Letting sweat dry: Skin flakes

Sweating is natural in summers, but letting it dry is harmful for the skin. When sweat dries, a salt flake forms, especially on the upper lip and chin. “If sweat is not wiped off with a soft cloth, the skin starts to look dry and lifeless,” says Dr. Neha Sharma.

Carry a cotton handkerchief when you go out and wipe off sweat immediately. Avoid synthetic fabrics, otherwise the irritation may increase.

5. Wrong skin products: The trap of dryness

Sometimes the cause of dry skin is hidden in your face wash or soap. Harsh chemicals in some products strip the skin of its natural moisture. “I tried a new face wash, and my face started getting stretched. Later, I found out that it was not right for my skin type,” says Kavya Singh, a student from Delhi.

In such a case, choose sulphate-free and mild face washes. Consult a dermatologist and use products according to your skin type.

Small changes, big difference

Dry skin in summers is not an incurable problem. It is important to understand the reasons behind it and take the right steps. “People think that everything will be fine by applying moisturizer, but first one should know why the dryness is happening,” advises Dr. Anil Mehta. Increase the amount of water, take care of nutrition and choose the right products—these small changes can make your skin moist and glowing again.

So the next time you have chapped lips or feel stretched skin, consider these reasons. Your skin’s health is in your hands—all it takes is a little common sense.