The Biggest Skincare Mistakes We See Every Summer
Summer is hands down one of the hardest seasons on your skin. Heat, humidity, sweat, sun exposure, and lifestyle changes all play a role, and every year we see the same skincare mistakes causing breakouts, pigmentation, dehydration, and premature ageing.
If your skin seems “worse” in summer, chances are one (or more) of these mistakes is the reason. Let’s break them down and show you what to do instead.
1. Skipping Sunscreen (or Only Using It at the Beach)
This is the biggest mistake, by far.
Many people only apply SPF when they’re at the beach or pool, but UV exposure happens every single day, even when it’s cloudy or you’re just running errands.
Why it’s a problem:
Causes pigmentation and sun damage
Breaks down collagen and accelerates ageing
Worsens acne scarring and redness
What to do instead:
Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 daily, rain or shine. Apply it every morning as the final step in your skincare routine and reapply if you’re outdoors or sweating.
2. Over-Exfoliating to “Control Oil”
When skin gets oily in summer, many people exfoliate more, thinking it will keep pores clear. In reality, this often makes things worse.
Why it’s a problem:
Strips the skin barrier
Triggers more oil production
Causes irritation, breakouts, and sensitivity
What to do instead:
Limit exfoliation to 1–2 times per week, especially if you’re using acids or retinol. Focus on barrier repair and hydration instead of stripping the skin.
3. Not Adjusting Your Skincare for the Season
Your winter skincare routine usually doesn’t work in summer—and heavy creams can clog pores when mixed with heat and sweat.
Why it’s a problem:
Leads to congestion and breakouts
Traps heat and bacteria in the skin
What to do instead:
Switch to lighter, gel-based or lotion textures, hydrating serums, and non-comedogenic products. Think hydration without heaviness.
4. Dehydrating the Skin (Even If You’re Oily)
Oily skin does not mean hydrated skin. Air conditioning, sun exposure, and sweating all pull water from the skin.
Why it’s a problem:
Dehydration causes dullness and fine lines
Skin may produce more oil to compensate
What to do instead:
Use hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and niacinamide, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
5. Using Actives Incorrectly in the Sun
Retinol, exfoliating acids, and certain treatments need extra care during summer.
Why it’s a problem:
Increased sun sensitivity
Higher risk of pigmentation and irritation
What to do instead:
Use actives at night only
Never skip SPF during the day
Reduce frequency if your skin feels reactive
6. Not Cleansing Properly After Sweating
Sweat, sunscreen, makeup, and oil build up quickly in summer.
Why it’s a problem:
Leads to blocked pores and breakouts
Can trigger fungal acne and irritation
What to do instead:
Cleanse thoroughly in the evening, especially after workouts or long days outside. A gentle double cleanse can make a huge difference.
7. Ignoring Professional Treatments Until “After Summer”
Many people avoid skin treatments during summer, thinking they’ll deal with their skin later.
Why it’s a problem:
Pigmentation and acne worsen without guidance
Early intervention prevents long-term damage
What to do instead:
Opt for summer-safe treatments like LED therapy, hydrating facials, gentle peels, and customised skincare plans to keep skin balanced and protected.
Final Thoughts
Summer skin issues are common, but they’re not unavoidable. Small changes to your routine can prevent breakouts, pigmentation, and premature ageing while keeping your skin healthy and glowing.
If your skin feels unpredictable every summer, it’s a sign your routine needs adjusting, not that your skin is “bad.”
Healthy summer skin starts with protection, hydration, and consistency.