Summer Skin 101: How to Handle Common Skin Issues That Arise With Summer
Yads Cauchi is a Dermal Clinician, Nutritionist (BHSc, MSc) and Beauty Journalist. She's also a mum of four. Evidence based skin health and nutrition are her thing and she works from her own skin clinic based in Canberra - you can find her there, or on Instagram and TikTok @yadscauchiskin.
When we think of summer we often think of glowy sunkissed skin don’t we! Although as a dermal clinician, what if I tell you, summer can also be the season where our skin can throw us a few curveballs.
You see, from unexpected breakouts to post sun-pigment and vascular concerns, warm weather for some people, can leave skin looking less than its best.
The good news? If you jump on top of your concerns early, with the right products you can U-turn your skin around in the right direction.
So if you’re travelling through the warmer months at the moment and wondering why your skin is misbehaving - think dehydration, sunburn, rosacea, and everything else in between - let me take you through some simple steps that will help you tackle some of these common summer skin emergencies like a pro.
Inadequate Sun Protection.
Why it’s bad: UV rays are the number one cause of premature ageing, pigmentation, and skin cancer. Hence forgetting to apply SPF is less than ideal.
Fix it: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning (½ TSP face/neck/ears) and reapply every 2 hours, especially if you’re outdoors. Ps. Don’t forget areas like your neck, decolletage and hands.
Not Adjusting Your Routine.
Why It’s Bad: Heavy winter products can clog pores in summer for some skins, while skipping certain actives, or adding new ones might also be needed to keep your skin balanced and happy!
Fix It: Switch to oil free, lighter formulas, add antioxidants to protect against free radical damage from the sun and if your skin continues to misbehave this is where it might be a good idea to chat to a professional to get personalised advice.
Overheating the Skin.
Why It’s Bad: Heat dilates blood vessels, intensifying redness and flushing and it can worsen pigmentation and melasma too!
Fix It: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, hot environments, and exercising in the midday sun. (And no hot yoga classes!) Keep a face mist and some hydrating sheet masks in the fridge. These can help soothe overheated skin at the end of the day, however avoiding the heat is the most important thing to do.
Dehydration.
Why It’s Bad: Heat and sun exposure can dehydrate your skin, leaving it dull and prone to fine lines.
Fix It: Use lightweight, hydrating serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and layer them under a moisturiser. We also need to remember to drink plenty of water, which won’t directly impact the skin, but it is beneficial for our overall health.
Sunburn (Including Forgetting Post-Sun Care).
Why It’s Bad: Sun exposure can cause inflammation and damage, even if you don’t burn. We all know there is nothing safe about a tan!
Fix It: No judgement, but if you do get sunburnt it is so important to be looking after the skin in the days that follow.
You can soothe skin with calming ingredients like aloe vera, or a cool hydrating mask and obviously it’s important to avoid exfoliating or using retinoids on freshly sun-exposed skin - yes, both on face and body. You need to let it heal.
Ignoring Your Triggers.
Why It’s Bad: Summer triggers like alcohol, wind or chlorine can worsen symptoms for inflammatory skin.
Fix It: Identify and minimise your personal triggers. This is super personal, but if your rosacea is flaring or your eczema is flaring, think about your lifestyle - what have you been doing? You can also calm your skin with anti-inflammatory ingredients like centella asiatica which can help reduce redness, irritation, and support the skin barrier.
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