Skincare in the summertime

Skincare in the summertime - Dubai London Hospital

A blog by Dr. Linda Alhajwan

First, you will need to know your skin type.

There are 5 types of skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology:

  • OILY SKIN is shiny and greasy
  • NORMAL SKIN is clear and not sensitive
  • DRY SKIN is flaky, itchy, or rough
  • SENSITIVE SKIN may sting or burn after product use
  • COMBINATION SKIN is oily in some areas and dry in others

Skincare in the summertime - Dubai London Hospital

A few commonly asked questions I receive are the following:

– What combination skin problems worsen in the summer? 

– What are the wrong factors or habits that exacerbate these problems? 

For combination skin signs and symptoms: large pores, oily T-zone, dry flaky areas, dry cheeks, or jawline.

The problems of combination skin are: oily or shiny skin in the T-zone area; acne breakouts (inflammation), increased blackheads and whiteheads, dry patches on the perimeters of the face; and dandruff on the scalp and eyebrows.

One of the major causes of combination skin problems like wide pores, breakouts, and white and blackheads can be triggered by the use of harsh ingredient products that might stimulate oil production in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), which will inevitably dry out sometimes.

Tell us the daily routine to keep combination skin free from these problems.

In summer, both heat and humidity will have a direct impact on the appearance of sebum on the T-zone, and the skin will look more visible and shinier because the heat can stimulate the production of sebum from the T-zone, which is normal but with this excess production. Also in summer, with sun exposure come breakouts; we might develop fine lines and wrinkles on the dry part of the face, and you might experience uneven skin tone and pigmentation.

This makes combination skin difficult to deal with. But the most important thing is to keep the skin balanced, not to have very dry or very oily skin, by having a special daily routine.

  1. CLEANING starts by cleansing the skin with a gentle cleanser, avoiding harsh ones.
  2. And MOISTURIZE directly after cleansing in the morning and evening.
  3. Protect the skin with SUNBLOCK which is essential for all skin types. UV exposure results in dehydration.
  4. EXFOLIATE the skin once per week using a gentle scrub can have a magic effect by removing the dead cells and unblocking pores. Try to be gentle with the T-zone because removing the deep oils from the skin can make the skin very oily.
  5. Do not forget your NIGHT CREAM, a good night cream to complete your routine and to wake up with glowing skin because skin will repair itself during the night and proper night cream helps to make the skin less oily.

What are the general prevention tips for combination skin in the summer?

For general prevention tips for combination skin in the summer.

  1. MOISTURIZE YOUR SKIN from the inside out. Drink enough water, eat less sugar, and eat healthy foods full of antioxidants.
  2. AVOID harsh cleansers.
  3. EXERCISE regularly.
  4. Practice STRESS RELIEF
  5. Avoid PORE-CLOGGING products and makeup.
  6. Choose FRAGRANCE-FREE products.
  7. PROTECT your skin at all times.