Beat the heat: Summer skincare tips for hot and humid weather

Skincare tips: Cleanse twice daily with a sulphate-free face wash to gently remove sweat and excess oil without stripping your skin (Image: Canva)

The hot and humid weather comes with a host of issues that include a sweat, oil, clogged pores, and breakouts other daily challenges. Moreover, the wrong skincare products can make matters worse. However, by making smarter, lighter choices can help your skin breathe, stay protected, and look fresh even in the stickiest conditions.

One of the most misunderstood steps in summer skincare is sunscreen. Many people ditch it, thinking it’ll add to the greasy mess. That’s a mistake, says Vipul Gupta, Founder, Re’equil. “Skipping sunscreen because of the weather is a common mistake. UV rays don’t take a break in the heat or behind clouds,” he explains.

Traditional thick sunscreens may have left you shiny and clogged, but modern formulations are lightweight, breathable, and non-comedogenic. “These newer sunscreens blend in smoothly, protect your skin from harmful rays, and are comfortable enough for daily wear, even in 90 percent humidity,” says Gupta.

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Over-cleansing, over-exfoliating, and layering heavy products can hamper your skin barrier. “In humid climates, less is more. A gentle, sulphate-free cleanser removes sweat and grime without drying out the skin. Instead of heavy creams, opt for gel-based moisturisers that hydrate without clogging. When it comes to exfoliation, limit it to once or twice a week using chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs. These help maintain clarity and texture without the irritation of harsh scrubs,” ,” suggests Gupta.

Here's your summer skincare checklist, suggested by Gupta: 

• Use a light, matte-finish sunscreen: Choose one that’s water-resistant and non-comedogenic, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
• Cleanse twice daily: A sulphate-free face wash will gently remove sweat and excess oil without stripping your skin.
• Switch to a gel-based moisturiser: These hydrate while allowing your skin to breathe, avoiding the heaviness of traditional creams.
• Exfoliate gently: Stick to once or twice a week with a mild chemical exfoliant to avoid damaging your skin barrier.

• Keep blotting papers handy: They absorb excess oil throughout the day without disturbing your makeup or sunscreen.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your skin flush out toxins and stay plump from within.
• Don’t skip toner: Alcohol-free toners can help tighten pores and reduce oiliness while calming the skin.
• Minimal makeup, maximum glow: Opt for non-comedogenic, breathable makeup or tinted sunscreen for a lighter touch.