Surviving the February heat requires a change in texture, not just routine. Here is everything you need to know about yoursummer skincareand how to keep your skin hydrated without the heaviness.
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Understand why heavy creams fail in humidity.
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Switch to water-basedcooling gelmoisturisers.
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Layer lightweight serums for hydration.
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Keep yourskincareroutinelightweightand simple to avoid congestion.
Stepping out of a cold shower in February only to start sweating the moment you apply your face cream is a uniquely South African problem.
Especially when it’s the peak of summer and the humidity in Durban or the dry heat of the Karoo is making your usual routine feel like a suffocating blanket. That doesn't mean you have to stop moisturising. Instead, you might want to look into doing a texture swap.
A successfulsummer skincare routine relies onlightweight skincare that hydrates without trapping heat.
The Science of Sweating
Why does your winter cream feel so heavy right now? Rich creams are often “occlusive,” meaning they form a seal over the skin to trap moisture. In winter, this is necessary. In summer, this seal traps heat and sweat, leading to that uncomfortable, greasy feeling and clogged pores in more humid weather.
Swapping Out Cream ForCooling Gels
The most effective change you can make is switching to awater-based gel moisturiser.
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How it works: Gels use humectants like hyaluronic acid to draw water into the skin, rather than oils that sit on top.
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The feeling: It feels like a splash of cool water. A face cooling gel absorbs instantly, leaving a matte, fresh finish that allows your skin to breathe.
Your Hydrating Skincare Routine for Hot & Humid Weather
When it's hot and steamy outside, the biggestsummer skincare mistake most people makeis trying to do too much. You’ve probably seen these viral trends promising insane hydration:
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4-2-4 rule in skincare: massaging cleansing oil for 4 minutes, foam cleansing for 2 minutes, rinse for 4 minutes.
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7 skin care routine:layering the same toner 7 times.
But the reality is that while these routines can feel amazing in dry, cold weather… they often backfire in hotter, more humid climates. Here’s why:
Your skin is already dealing with constant sweat, oil production, and moisture in the air. Piling on lots of layers or spending 10+ minutes massaging in products just makes everything feel heavy, sticky and suffocating. This increases the risk of clogged pores, breakouts or red splotches.
Skincare Tips For Hot Weather
Keep it simple and focused on hydration, not oil.
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Do a gentle double cleanse. Yes, it is still beneficial to remove sunscreen, sweat and oil. Use a refreshingcleanser.
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Choose cooling water-based textures,such as gels or serums, over thick creams.
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Layer lightly. Stick to 3–5 steps max. Apply lightweight serums from brands likeSkin Functional orOptiphi.
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Prioritise hydration without heaviness. Think hyaluronic acid and alightweight moisturiser for summer, like theDermalogica Calm Water Gel.
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Finish with protection. Always use a non-comedogenicSPF.
Stop sweating under your skincare. Have a look at our full range of skincare to find the perfectcooling gels andlightweight skincarefor yoursummer skincare routine.
FAQS
Q: What is the best skin care routine for summer?
A: The best routine focuses on lightweight hydration. Switching to lighter textures, such as serums and cooling gels, allows your skin to breathe while still providing essential moisture.
Q: Will a gel moisturiser be enough for dry skin?
A: Yes. Dehydration (lack of water) is often the main issue in summer, even for dry skin types. A quality gel provides intense water-based hydration. If you are very dry, layer a hydrating serum underneath.
Q: Can I keep my skincare in the fridge?
A: Absolutely. Storing your gel moisturiser or sheet masks in the fridge adds an extra cryo-cooling benefit that helps de-puff and soothe hot skin instantly.
Q: What ingredients should I look for in summer skincare?
A: Look for hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and glycerin. These are lightweight humectants that bind water to the skin without adding heaviness or grease.
Q: What is the 7 skin care routine?
A: This involves layering a hydrating toner up to seven times. While great for dehydration, in humid weather, you might find 2–3 layers of a toner sufficient to plump the skin without feeling sticky.
Q: What skincare mistakes should I avoid in summer?
A: Avoid over-exfoliating sun-exposed skin and skipping moisturiser. Dehydrated skin produces more oil, so keep hydrating with lightweight products.
