The season of sweat is here and with it comes a whole new set of skin issues. Humidity mixed with dryness in the air leads to several skin problems, especially if you have oily skin. Your skin tends to get greasier because of the overworked sebaceous glands producing oil to tackle seasonal damage. As such, it is counterproductive to stick to your habitual skincare routines when the season changes. Here are 7 skincare mistakes that are making your oily skin situation grimmer!
- Using the same cleanser
- Slacking off on moisturiser
- Using the wrong sunscreen
- Touching your face ALL THE TIME
- Not exfoliating enough
- Using acid-based skin treatments
- Relying on too many mattifying products
Using the same cleanser
In the summer, your skin needs deeper cleansing as compared to winter months where you can slack off. Especially if you are getting a lot of sun exposure - which for oily skinned lasses can be a nightmare. Switch to products like glycolic washes and cleansers with a mild exfoliant in them for the better cleansing action.
Slacking off on moisturiser
Given that your skin feels oilier in the summer, you might be tempted to skip the moisturiser. The idea that oil is already “moisturising the face” is dangerous. You should always use an oil-free moisturiser to hydrate your skin. Water-based alternatives, like the Ponds Super Light Gel Oil-Free Moisturiser, can be used instead of your heavy winter creams.
Using the wrong sunscreen
It is a well-known fact that you shouldn’t ease up on sunscreen even during the cloudy, rainy days. But you do have to switch up the SPF in the summer for added sun protection. Clearer skies mean harsher sun and so you need to stop using the gentler cream, start re-applying them multiple times and play around with your options a bit. Maybe invest in a light SPF spray to dump in your bag?
Touching your face ALL THE TIME
We cannot stress this enough, but you've got to stop touching your face so much! Sweaty, oily skin is susceptible to develop infections quicker than dry skin. So every time you reach out to wipe away a stream of sweat from your face; you are raising cause for concerns. Acne, rashes and even skin irritation are what lay beyond your face touching habit. Carry blotting papers or soft tissues to wipe away the sweat and oil instead.
Not exfoliating enough
It is easier to spot your exfoliation needs in the winter because you can physically see dry skin patches on your face that needs to be gotten rid of. But that doesn’t mean you should ease up on exfoliating in the summer. Oily skin is notorious for collecting dirt and grime buildup on your skin and a gentle exfoliant, like the Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Water, can come in handy on the bad days.
Using acid-based skin treatments
One of the best things that worked for my acne-prone skin was incorporating salicylic and hyaluronic acids in my skincare routine. But I stop using them in the summer because they thin your skin down. This can be harmful as you’ll be more prone to sun damage; which can sometimes be irreversible. Stay caution white using skin treatments in the summer and always take into consideration how they react with humidity and the sun.
Relying on too many mattifying products
Do not give in to the temptation of fixing a shiny forehead in the summer right away. Mattifying products like powders and mists can clog your pores instead of actually dealing with the oiliness. Instead, take up some hydration toners to get that job done. You can also opt for an alcohol-free astringent to give your face that extra boost of freshness in the summer!
Written by Sumona Bose on Apr 06, 2020
Sumona Bose is a writer, skincare junkie and a self-professed makeup connoisseur. Equipped with a Master's degree in Fashion Management and over 3 years of experience writing in the beauty and fashion space, her passion for learning new things has no bounds. Working closely with dermatologists, beauty excerpts, makeup artists and hairstylists, she brings you the best of all things beauty. From trending skincare ingredients to makeup looks that help you slay, she manages to bring something new (and vital!) to our readers every single time. Her hobbies include home workouts, watching foreign films and binge-watching makeover shows!