Heat, sweat and sun: How to actually protect your skin this summer

Summer is no longer just an uncomfortable season - it has become a serious stressor for skin health.

Rising temperatures, increased humidity and prolonged sun exposure can disrupt the skin’s natural balance, leading to a range of concerns from dehydration to breakouts and premature ageing.

According to Dr Priyanka Sharma, Co-founder, Director and Chief Dermatologist at V6 Clinics, the combination of heat, sweat and UV exposure creates the perfect environment for skin damage. “Heat, sweat and sun exposure together throw off the skin’s natural balance, which can cause dehydration, excess oil, breakouts and pigmentation,” she explains.

Why your skin struggles more in summer

One of the key reasons behind summer skin issues is increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) - a process where the skin loses moisture more rapidly in hot conditions. As hydration levels drop, the skin may feel dry and tight, even in humid weather.

At the same time, sebaceous glands go into overdrive, producing excess oil. This dual effect - dehydration on one hand and oiliness on the other - can clog pores and trigger acne.

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Dr Sharma notes that this imbalance also increases the risk of infections such as folliculitis, particularly when sweat and bacteria accumulate on the skin.

Sun exposure further worsens the situation. Prolonged UV exposure leads to oxidative stress, which accelerates collagen breakdown and contributes to tanning, pigmentation and early signs of ageing.

Tip 1: Moisturising and daily sunscreen application are non-negotiable

A common mistake during summer is skipping moisturiser, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin. However, this can backfire.

“Moisturising is non-negotiable, even for oily skin. Skipping it can worsen dehydration and trigger more oil production,” says Dr Sharma.

She recommends opting for lightweight, gel-based and non-comedogenic moisturisers, which hydrate the skin without clogging pores. These formulations help maintain the skin’s balance while preventing excess oil build-up.

The dermatologist further suggests not skipping sunscreen. "Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two-three hours, especially if you are outdoors or sweating."

She further explains how to apply sunscreen properly. "To get full protection, apply it 15 to 20 minutes before stepping outdoors, use a generous amount (about a coin-sized amount for the face), and cover often-missed areas like ears, neck and hands."

Tip 2: Add these ingredients to your daily skincare routine this summer

Choosing the right ingredients can make a noticeable difference in how your skin responds to heat and sun exposure. Dr Sharma highlights a few key ones:

1. Vitamin C: Helps fight sun damage and supports brighter, more even-toned skin.

2. Niacinamide: Controls oil production, reduces inflammation and strengthens the skin barrier.

3. Hyaluronic acid: Attracts and retains moisture, keeping the skin hydrated without heaviness.

Incorporating these into your daily routine can help protect the skin while improving overall texture and resilience.

Tip 3: Skin hydration starts from within

Topical skincare alone is not enough during peak summer. Internal hydration plays an equally important role, according to the dermatologist.

Dr Sharma advises maintaining "a daily intake of 2.5 to 3 litres of water, along with fluids rich in electrolytes such as coconut water. This helps replenish what the body loses through sweat and supports overall skin function."

Tip 4: Cleanse but don't over cleanse

Cleansing is essential in summer to remove sweat, dirt, excess oil and pollutants that build up on the skin throughout the day. But how much cleansing is too much cleansing?

Dr Sharma mentions "Cleanse your face twice a day (morning and night) using a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser suited to your skin type. If you sweat heavily, you can rinse with water or use a mild cleanser once more but avoid excessive scrubbing. This helps keep your skin clean without compromising its natural protective barrier."