Why Your Skin Feels Congested in Summer (And How to Fix It)

1 Feb

If your skin feels bumpy, blocked, oily or congested during summer, you’re not imagining it. Warmer weather brings a perfect storm of sweat, sunscreen, oil production and environmental stress that can quickly clog pores, even if your skin behaves well the rest of the year.

The good news? Summer congestion is very common and very fixable with the right approach. Let’s break down exactly why it happens and how to clear it without stripping or irritating your skin.

Why Skin Gets Congested in Summer

1. Increased Oil Production

Heat stimulates your sebaceous glands, causing them to produce more oil. When excess oil mixes with dead skin cells, sunscreen and pollution, pores can easily become blocked, leading to congestion, blackheads and breakouts.

2. Sweat + SPF = Blocked Pores

Sweat itself isn’t bad, but when it sits on the skin mixed with SPF and makeup, it can trap debris inside the pores. This is especially common around the chin, jawline, nose and forehead.

3. Thicker or Incorrect Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential year-round, but using a formula that’s too heavy or not suitable for your skin type can cause congestion, particularly if it’s not being removed properly at night.

4. Dehydrated Skin Can Still Be Oily

Many people skip moisturiser in summer, thinking it will make skin oilier. In reality, dehydrated skin overproduces oil to compensate, which often leads to congestion.

5. More Environmental Exposure

Pollution, salt water, chlorine, humidity and dust all stick to the skin more easily in summer, increasing the likelihood of pore buildup if cleansing isn’t thorough.

How to Clear Summer Congestion (Without Damaging Your Skin)

1. Double Cleanse at Night

A double cleanse is essential in summer:

First cleanse: Removes SPF, makeup and surface oil
Second cleanse: Cleans pores and skin properly

This prevents buildup while keeping the skin barrier healthy.

2. Use Gentle Chemical Exfoliation

Swap harsh scrubs for chemical exfoliants like:

Salicylic acid (BHA) – penetrates pores and dissolves oil
Lactic or mandelic acid – gently exfoliate without irritation

Limit exfoliation to 2–3 times per week to avoid over-stripping.

3. Hydrate, Don’t Strip

Lightweight, gel or lotion-based moisturisers help balance oil production and keep pores clear. Hydrated skin = calmer, clearer skin.

4. Choose the Right SPF

Look for non-comedogenic, lightweight sunscreens suited to oily or acne-prone skin. Always remove SPF thoroughly at night.

5. Professional Treatments Help Reset the Skin

In-clinic treatments can dramatically improve summer congestion, including:

Deep cleansing facials
LED light therapy
Gentle chemical peels
Professional extractions (safely done, never DIY)

These treatments help clear pores, reduce inflammation and rebalance the skin.

Signs Your Skin Is Congested

Rough or bumpy texture
Blackheads or whiteheads
Dull appearance
Makeup sitting unevenly
Breakouts without obvious acne

If this sounds familiar, your skin likely needs clarifying, not harsh drying products.

Final Thoughts

Summer skin congestion is normal, but it’s not something you have to live with. By cleansing properly, exfoliating smartly, hydrating correctly and choosing the right treatments, your skin can stay clear, balanced and glowing all summer long.

If you’re unsure what your skin needs, a professional skin consultation can help tailor the perfect routine for your skin type and lifestyle.

Gabbi Williams