Enjoy Goa’s summers but with precautions. Beat the heat by staying hydrated, staying covered, and protecting yourself from the sun’s harsh rays with the right sunscreen and good personal hygiene
Summers in Goa are defined by the sea, sand, sun... and sweat. With Goa’s humidity reaching intense levels, skin care is a top priority. As daytime temperatures climb to 33-35°C, the skin bears the brunt of the heat, moisture, and UV radiation.
While tourists flock to Goa’s shores for that perfect sun-kissed selfie, locals need to be equally vigilant. Excessive sun exposure carries significant risks, including sunburns and hyperpigmentation. Furthermore, skin cancer has been directly linked to prolonged exposure to harmful UV radiation.
Dr Diksha Phadke, a Dermatologist and Cosmetologist, emphasises the importance of using the right products. "It differs by skin type and climate, but for Goa’s humidity, it is best to use a salicylic acid cleanser while avoiding harsh ingredients like retinol and glycolic acid, as these can cause irritation in the heat. I recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen that covers both UVA and UVB rays. Ideally, it should be a combination of physical and chemical blockers," says Dr Phadke.
Because the ocean is a major draw during the summer, staying hydrated on the beach is essential. "The sun is at its harshest between 10 am and 4 pm, with peak intensity from 11 am to 3 pm; it is best to avoid outdoor activity during these hours," advises Dermatologist Dr Sneha Pai Kakode.
"Dehydration makes sunburns more severe," adds Dr Phadke. "While Western skin is more prone to burning, Indian skin is not immune, and children are particularly vulnerable. It is crucial to protect them with full-sleeved clothing or child-specific sunscreens."
The skincare market is flooded with products boasting SPF 30, 50, or 70. While these may seem like random numbers, they serve a specific purpose. "SPF refers to the Sun Protection Factor, the percentage of UV rays blocked," clarifies senior Dermatologist Dr D B Deshpande. "If your skin begins to burn after 10 minutes of unprotected exposure, applying SPF 30 theoretically provides 10 times 30 minutes, or 300 minutes, of protection."
Summer also sees many elderly residents visiting the shore, believing saltwater baths heal skin diseases. "It can help with specific conditions like eczema or psoriasis, but you cannot generalise and say sea bathing guarantees healthy skin," explains Dr Phadke.
Dr Deshpande adds a unique perspective: "The skin is a living system. Beneficial bacteria live on it and manage skin secretions. When we use '99% germ-kill' soaps, we destroy those bacteria, but the secretions continue, often leading to fungal growth. In that sense, a sea bath can be a rejuvenating alternative."
He further advises: "Stay hydrated, bathe at least twice a day, and avoid dusting powders, which can crystallise with sweat and cause irritation. Wear cotton clothes and, most importantly, drink plenty of water."
While you enjoy the sea and sand, remain cautious. Staying hydrated, applying the right sunscreen, wearing loose clothing, and avoiding the midday sun are the best ways to ensure your skin maintains a healthy summer glow without damage.
