“Just as we adjust our clocks for daylight savings time every spring, most people need to make
some adjustments in their skin care routines to compensate for the increase in temperature and
humidity in the warmer months,” explains New York dermatologist, Diane Berson, M.D.
“Feeling comfortable in your skin is especially important during the hot, soggy months of the summer and many people aren’t aware that the form in which some skin care preparations are available, both over-the-counter and prescription, can make a real difference.
“If you have acne or rosacea, for instance, and have been using a cream or lotion-based medication during the colder months of winter, when dry skin may be a problem, you may find that switching to a gel formulation in the summer is a wise idea. Gels are usually slightly more drying and that effect on the skin may be more welcome than an emollient formula that can feel heavier and be less comfortable to wear.
“Even the product that you use to cleanse your skin may not leave you feeling as refreshed as it does in the winter. Unless your skin is very dry, you may derive some benefit from using a skin cleanser made for normal to oily skin. It may leave you feeling cleaner and less greasy.”
The warmer weather months also necessitate a different approach to sun protection that may not be necessary in the winter when most of your skin is concealed under layers of clothing, at least in the colder Northeast, Northwest and Midwest states.
"All around the country, people need to become aware of the importance of protection from the sun year-round," says Dr. Berson. "Broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB sun rays is recommended. The problem is that many people believe they only need sun protection if they are at the beach or lounging by the pool. The truth is, the ability of the sun to damage the skin has increased in the past two decades and melanomas, as well as all kinds of skin cancer, are on the rise. The safest and surest thing to do is to protect your skin from what is called incidental sun exposure all year long. Incidental sun exposure can come from walking down the street or driving in your car. Even sitting by an office window can expose you to harmful, aging UVA rays.
"As the weather heats up, examine your daily skin care regimen, including your prescription products, and have a talk with your dermatologist to make adjustments that will keep your skin treatments on track and your skin feeling more comfortable."
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