Sweat, Sunscreen, & Breakouts: Let’s Talk Summer Skin Issues
Between sunshine, beach days, and heatwaves, summer brings out the glow, but also the grime. While we love the boost of vitamin D and golden hour selfies, our skin often has a very different experience. If your summer skincare feels like a never-ending battle with breakouts, clogged pores, and irritation, don’t worry. You’re not alone. I’m breaking down why your skin might be freaking out and how to get it back on track!
Sweat + Oil Combo ☀️
Increased heat nd humidity mean your sweat glands and sebaceous glands are working overtime. For many, this means oily skin will become oilier and sweat traps dirt, makeup, and bacteria on your skin. The results? Breakouts, especially along the forehead, jaw, and hairline.
Pro Tip: Double cleanse every night. Begin with an oil-based cleanser to remove sunscreen and makeup. Follow that up with a gentle water-based cleanser. Remember to not skip your PM routine, especially after a long beach day.
Sunscreen Breakouts
I’ve said it before, sunscreen is a non-negotiable. It’s important to know, not all sunscreens are created equal. Some formulas contain occlusive and comedogenic ingredients that can glow the pores. This is especially true when these sunscreens are mixed with sweat and oil. If you’re breaking out after SF, it might be time to switch.
Sunscreens to Look for:
Oil-Free & Non-Comedogenic Labels
Mineral-based SPF (like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide) for Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin
Lightweight Gel or Water-Based Formulas
My Pick: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 for breakout-prone skin
🏋🏻♀️Post-Workout Congestions
If you’re getting more workouts in or spending time outdoors, sweat and tight workout clothes can cause breakout on your face and entire body. This is especially true for your back, chest, and shoulders.
Here’s Some Quick Fixes:
Shower ASAP After Sweating
Benzoyl Peroxide & Salicylic Acid Body Wash a Few Times a Week
Keep Hair Off Your Back if You Use OIly & Creamy Hair Products
Over-Exfoliation & Barrier Damage
Feeling greasy and congested? Don’t be tempted to overdo exfoliating. This includes scrubs, peels, & actives that might compromise your barrier. That leads to redness, sensitivity, and even more breakouts. To minimize damage:
Stick to 2-3 times a week for chemical exfoliation (mandelic and lactic acid are both summer-friendly)
Add a calming serum or barrier repair cream to soothe your skin
Avoid physical scrubs & harsh towels
Travel & Routine Disruptions
Vacation mode often means less consistency with your routine, new environments (think hotels, pools, and planes), and experimenting with travel-size products. These can all throw your skin off balance.
My Travel Tips:
Stick to your core skincare staples (cleanser, moisturizer, & SPF)
Pack a calming mask & spot treatment
Stay hydrated & limit heavy makeup if your skin is stressed
How to Keep Summer Skin Clear & Calm
Here’s a simple, summer-safe skincare checklist:
✅Cleane Twice Daily
✅Hydrate with Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
✅Protect with SPF+ Daily
✅Exfoliate Gently, No More than 2-3 Times a Week
✅Spot Treat as Needed
✅Listen to Your Skin to Make Sure it’s Not Red, Itchy, or Tight
Summer skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does have to be smart. The key is understanding how your skin responds to heat, humidity, SPF, and sweat. This will guide you in taking the right steps and making the changes to keep your skin glowing and keep breakouts away. Now is the perfect time to master seasonal skincare like a pro.