Summer Skincare for All Skin Types
Summer is well underway, and here in Florida we’re really starting to feel the heat. For those with dry skin, the increased humidity might make them think that summer skincare will be a breeze. Others aren’t so sure. Of course, we always recommend picking out a good sunblock for all your adventures spent outside, but there should be a bit more than that with your seasonal skin routine. No routine is a one-size-fits-all situation, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting the right recommendations for your exact skin type. Let’s go over our top skincare tips for each and every skin type!
Summer Skin Routine for Oily Skin
Depending on where you live, summers might be sticky and humid, or dry and relentlessly hot. Here in Florida, it gets very warm with high levels of humidity. For those of us with oily skin, the Florida weather can be a nightmare— especially when wearing makeup.
1 – Cleanse and Moisturize
While it may seem counterintuitive, it’s essential to not “over-cleanse” your face. The more you strip your skin of its natural oils, the more oil it will think it needs to produce. Cleanse your face only when your skin is dirty, and follow up with a moisturizer that works well for your skin type. Popular products for oily skin usually omit oils and alcohol, but always check the labels. Look for cleansers and moisturizers with retinol, green tea, and clay.
2 – Protect
Regardless of your skin type, you should take steps to protect your body from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Keep your oily skin in mind when selecting sunscreen; if you have sensitive skin, it may be more practical to cover or shade your skin with clothing and accessories.
3 – Supplement
If you like to wear makeup, battling oily skin can be a constant struggle— especially during the summer. The wet Florida heat can cause the skin to produce more sebum (the skin’s natural oils) and sweat, creating a vicious cycle that can cause makeup to quite literally melt off your face. Try using blotting sheets and BB cream rather than a thick foundation.
Summer Skin Routine for Dry Skin
While it may not seem like it should be an issue, many of our patients struggle with dry skin during the summer. Here’s how to moisturize dry skin in the summer:
1 – Cleanse and Moisturize
Make sure to completely remove any product from your face when you cleanse; leaving makeup and sunscreen on your face for too long can dry your skin out further. We also recommend that you cleanse in the shower and moisturize as soon as you get out— this will help lock in the moisture more effectively. Individuals with dry skin usually benefit the most from oil-based products and thick barrier creams that are designed to lock in moisture
2 – Protect
Heat can actually dry your skin out further, surprisingly enough. When it’s hot out, make sure to drink plenty of water and stay out of direct sunlight. As usual, apply sunscreen whenever you are outside; moisturizing sunscreens will be your dry skin’s best friend. We also recommend that you avoid swimming in heavily treated pools— the chemicals in the water can strip your skin of moisturizer and natural oils, further drying your skin out.
3 – Supplement
In addition to avoiding external factors that will exacerbate your dry skin, you may also want to take a look at what you’re eating and drinking. In general, it’s best to hydrate with clear, sugar-free fluids during the summer. Avoid excess coffee and alcohol, as these can contribute to flushing your body of fluids. Try to eat more foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like walnuts, flax, olive oil, and salmon— flaxseed oil, in particular, has been proven to contribute to healthy, well-moisturized skin.
Summer Skincare Tips for Combination Skin
Combination skin is a term for people who have both oily and dry spots on their face and body. Since the skin isn’t all oily or all dry, it can be challenging to determine how best to approach this type of skin’s summer care. You can start by following the recommendations above for each skin type in areas that you know are oily and dry. But if you’re really struggling to establish a routine that works, reach out to one of our dermatologists in Florida for help developing your skincare routine!
