Exfoliation is a must. If you want to get that healthy-looking skin and prolonged glow, do not skip this step. Our skin shed dead cells at an incredible rate every day, and it is vital to slough them away, lest you want your skin to appear dry and dull.

Ideally, exfoliate two to three times a week. You can use an exfoliating sponge or a massager and rub it in circular movements on your entire body from the shoulders down. A body scrub – either homemade or store-bought – also works well.

Don’t forget your face and neck too – use a proper facial scrub or exfoliator that’s suited to your skin type about once or twice a week.

You didn’t think we would get through this list without mentioning sunscreen too, did you? A product that’s essential not just during the summer, but for every day as well. Even if it’s cloudy or rainy outside, you should apply sunscreen religiously on a daily basis.

Opt for one with a high SPF and promises protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. If you’re unsure how much product to use, you should be applying about a shot glass full for your body and a full teaspoon just on your face.

Reapply the sunscreen every one to two hours, especially if you’re having fun in the sun. Go for a waterproof sunscreen too, if you’re partaking in water-based activities.

Pack away those super heavy creams and lotions. Now that it’s warmed up, the hot and humid weather calls for lightweight products that won’t feel like it’s clogging up your pores. Let your skin breathe naturally, so go for fast absorbent formulas that will still moisturise your skin. Ditch the oil-based moisturisers and opt for water-based ones. If you have oily skin, gel-based moisturisers work wonders; for extra oily and acne prone skin, facial sprays with minerals are ideal.

Remember to always moisturise straight out of the shower when your skin is still damp, and also at night if you want to wake up with glowing skin.

It’s not enough to protect your skin, you need to nourish it from within. Carry a handy, portable water bottle with you and aim to take a sip at least every half an hour. Not only does water help to flush out the toxins and waste that accumulate in the body, it also helps to decrease the heat level and keep the body cool and hydrated.

Fluids also help to detoxify the skin and keep the skin soft, dewy and clear. If you get bored easily with just plain water, you can opt for other drinks like fruit juices, coconut water and green tea – the latter is high in antioxidants which helps to eliminate dead skin cells.

A high consumption of calorie-dense snacks and salty products is best to be avoided as salt can have a dehydrating effect on the body. Instead, stick to high water content fruits in your diet like watermelon, cucumber, oranges and lettuce, as they provide nutrients and anti-oxidants. Green, leafy vegetables also improves your overall the immune system.

Take advantage of the non-rainy weather to get active outside – go for a run, a swim, or simply take a walk through the park. Exercise increases the blood circulation of the body and promotes the supply of blood, which gives the skin a natural and healthy glow.

If you’re time-strapped, simply perform short and quick stretching exercises or relaxing yoga every morning or every night before bed.

Images: Showbit.com