Summer is a beautiful season, but it can also be incredibly harsh on your skin. The soaring temperatures, excess humidity, and constant exposure to the sun can cause various skin issues — from breakouts and sunburns to premature ageing. While many of us switch to lighter clothes and refreshing drinks during the warmer months, we often forget to adapt our skincare routine for summer. Unfortunately, simple mistakes in skincare during the hot season can leave our skin dull, dehydrated, and damaged.
In this blog, we’ll uncover 9 common skincare mistakes to avoid this summer to keep your skin glowing, healthy, and protected all season long. Let's dive right in!
9 Common Skincare Mistakes
1. Not Cleansing Enough
One of the most common skincare mistakes people make during summer is not cleansing the skin thoroughly and frequently. With the heat causing excessive sweating and the build-up of dirt, oil, and pollutants, your pores are more prone to clogging — leading to breakouts and blackheads.
Solution:
- Use a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser twice a day — morning and night.
- If you have oily skin, you can use a foaming or gel-based cleanser to keep your skin fresh and clean without over-drying it.
- Avoid harsh soaps that can strip away natural oils and cause irritation.
2. Not Applying Sunscreen
Skipping sunscreen is perhaps the biggest summer skincare sin. UV rays are stronger in summer, and unprotected sun exposure can lead to sunburn, premature ageing, pigmentation, and even skin cancer. Many people avoid sunscreen tips thinking it makes the skin greasy — but that’s a myth!
Solution:
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, especially if you are outdoors or sweating.
- Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic, and matte-finish sunscreens to avoid greasy skin.
3. Not Moisturising
Many believe that moisturisers are only for winter and skip them when the weather gets warm — a huge mistake! In summer, your skin still needs hydration to balance oil production and maintain a healthy barrier.
Solution:
- Switch to a lightweight, water-based or gel moisturiser suitable for your skin type.
- Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which hydrate without clogging pores.
- Apply moisturiser right after cleansing to lock in moisture effectively.
4. Not Hydrating Enough
Internal hydration is just as important as external skincare. Dehydration can make your skin look dull, dry, and prone to irritation. In summer, when you sweat more, your body loses water faster.
Solution:
- Drink at least 2-3 litres of water daily to keep your skin plump and fresh.
- Include hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges in your diet.
- Use hydrating mists or facial sprays when outdoors for an extra boost of moisture.
5. Following Face Care and Not Skincare
Many focus only on their face but ignore the rest of the skin. Summer affects the entire body, so full-body skincare is essential to prevent dryness, sun damage, and uneven skin tone.
Solution:
- Use a gentle body wash that doesn't strip away natural oils.
- Apply body sunscreen to exposed areas like arms, neck, and feet.
- Don’t forget to moisturise your body with lightweight lotions or body yoghurts.
6. Not Exfoliating Enough
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, helping to prevent clogged pores and dullness. However, in summer, many avoid exfoliating out of fear of irritating the skin — but not exfoliating at all can make your skin worse.
Solution:
- Exfoliate 1-2 times a week with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant (like AHA/BHA).
- Avoid harsh scrubs with large beads that can damage the skin.
- Be sure to moisturise and apply sunscreen after exfoliating to protect the new skin layer.
7. Wrong Order of Using Skincare
Applying skincare products in the wrong sequence can reduce their effectiveness. In summer, layering light products correctly ensures better absorption and results.
Solution:
- Follow this basic order: Cleanser → Toner (if needed) → Serum → Moisturiser → Sunscreen (morning routine).
- For night care: Cleanser → Serum → Moisturiser.
- Let each product absorb fully before applying the next.
8. Wearing Heavy Makeup
Wearing thick, heavy makeup during hot weather can clog pores, lead to breakouts, and cause discomfort as the skin sweats. Foundation and concealers may melt, making skin appear greasy and patchy.
Solution:
- Opt for lightweight, breathable makeup like BB creams, tinted moisturisers, or mineral foundations.
- Use mattifying primers to control excess oil.
- Go for waterproof and sweat-proof products if you need long-lasting makeup.
- Let your skin breathe by taking makeup-free days whenever possible.
9. Ignoring Your Neck
The neck is one of the most neglected areas in skincare, yet it’s equally exposed to sun and environmental damage. Skipping this area can lead to early wrinkles, sagging, and uneven skin tone on the neck compared to the face.
Solution:
- Cleanse, exfoliate, moisturise, and apply sunscreen to your neck just like your face.
- Use upward motions while applying products to promote firmness.
- Consider neck-specific creams if you notice signs of ageing.
Conclusion
Taking care of your skin during summer is all about adjusting your routine to meet the unique demands of the season. By avoiding these 9 common skincare mistakes, you can protect your skin from sun damage, dehydration, and breakouts, leaving it glowing and healthy throughout the warmer months.
At Club Derma, we believe in simplifying skincare with products that genuinely work. Our range is scientifically formulated, catering to all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. With high-quality, dermatologist-approved formulations, We are committed to helping you achieve naturally healthy and radiant skin. Explore more about us at www.clubderma.in and give your skin the care it truly deserves!
