Looking and Staying Cool in Hot Weather

Growing up in an arid environment did not prepare me for the summer I lived in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I had no idea air could be so thick and damp. I don't think I felt dry all summer long. Summers in hot humid climates can be uncomfortable and challenging to cope with. There are several ways to manage the heat and stay as cool as possible.

• Block Direct Sunlight. Keep curtains drawn during the day to block direct sunlight. Open the windows at night to draw in the cool air. Put a fan in the window to blow the hot air out during the day and draw cool air in at night if you don't have air conditioning.
• Avoid Using the Oven. Plan meals that don't require using the oven as it heats the air in the house that lasts for hours. Summer is a good time to eat lighter healthier meals like pastas and salads. Grilling meat is also a great option for keeping things cooler inside.
• Dress in Loose Breathable Fabrics. Dress in light weight natural fabrics. Cottons are perfect for summer wear. It allows the skin to breathe. Wear layers that can be shed in the heat, but added in an air conditioned environment.
• Avoid Direct Sun. Stay indoors between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm when the sun is most powerful. If venturing outdoors is unavoidable, wear a hat or use an umbrella to block the sun. Avoid strenuous activities; choose to walk in an air conditioned mall instead of out doors.
• Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of water or juice, even if you don't feel thirsty. Staying hydrated is the best thing to do in hot weather. It is easy to become dehydrated in excessive heat. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol as they can lead to dehydration.
• Cool Showers. In hot weather taking a cool shower or bath can be refreshing. Add some baking soda to bath water for a soothing affect.
• Cool Water Spritzer. Keep a spray bottle of water in the refrigerator. Sprits the back of the neck, arms and face with cool water. The temperature of the skin will cause the water to evaporate and help cool down the body's temperature.
• Pressed Powder. To keep foundation in place on hot days, use an oil free moisturizer before applying foundation. Follow up with a pressed power one shade lighter than your skin tone. Keep oil blotters handy to refresh throughout the day.

Plan physical activities around the coolest part of the day to avoid getting over heated. Dress for the weather. Minimize the use of appliances that kick out heat to keep the house as cool as possible. Stay inside air-conditioned spaces if possible. Control as much of your surroundings as possible to look and feel your best during the hot summer months.