Australian summers can mean hot afternoons, outdoor activities, swimming and plenty of time spent in the sun. When the weather changes, you may find that your usual skincare products feel different on your skin.
The solution isn't necessarily to replace your entire routine. Small adjustments to cleansing, moisturising and sun protection may be all you need.
Here's how to keep your skincare routine practical during the warmer months.
1. Keep cleansing gentle
Sweat, sunscreen, makeup and everyday impurities can build up on your skin during summer.
Cleanse after activities that leave your skin sweaty and cleanse in the evening to remove the day's buildup. Choose a cleanser that suits your skin and avoid scrubbing aggressively in an attempt to feel extra clean.
Using very hot water or cleansing too frequently may leave your skin feeling uncomfortable.
If your skin tends to feel oily in warm weather, you may prefer a lightweight gel cleanser. If you prefer a creamier texture, you may find that a cream cleanser suits you better.
Explore the My Health A-Z cleanser collection to compare available options.
2. Adjust your moisturiser if needed
A rich moisturiser that feels comfortable in winter may feel heavier during hot weather. Equally, some people continue to prefer a richer formula throughout the year.
Pay attention to how your skin feels rather than switching products simply because the season has changed.
If you prefer a lighter texture, a gel moisturiser may be worth considering. If your skin feels dry or tight, you may prefer a creamier formula.
The goal is to keep your skin comfortable without adding unnecessary steps.
Browse My Health A-Z moisturisers to compare textures and product information.
3. Make sun protection a priority
Summer is an important time to be mindful of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sun protection should not depend only on whether the day feels hot or looks sunny.
Use a suitable broad-spectrum sunscreen according to its label directions. Reapply as directed, especially after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
Also consider the wider sun-protection measures recommended by Cancer Council Australia's SunSmart guidance, including protective clothing, a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, shade and checking UV conditions.
When choosing sunscreen, read the label carefully. The Therapeutic Goods Administration's guide to sunscreen labels explains information such as SPF, broad-spectrum protection, application directions and warnings.
Do not assume that a regular moisturiser or serum offers sun protection unless the product is specifically labelled for that purpose.
4. Don't overdo exfoliation
When skin feels sweaty or looks shiny, it can be tempting to scrub more often or introduce several exfoliating products.
However, more exfoliation isn't necessarily better. Overdoing it can leave skin feeling dry, sensitive or irritated.
If you already use an exfoliating product, follow its directions and pay attention to how your skin responds. Avoid adding multiple new active products at once.
If your skin becomes irritated, pause the products that may be contributing and seek professional advice if the problem persists.
5. Keep your routine manageable when travelling
Summer often means holidays, weekend trips and time away from home. You don't need to pack every product in your bathroom.
Choose the essentials you use consistently, check the container sizes and follow any storage directions.
A practical travel routine may include:
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A cleanser suitable for removing everyday impurities.
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A moisturiser that keeps your skin comfortable.
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Sunscreen for daytime protection.
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Any optional treatment you already tolerate and use as directed.
Avoid introducing several new products immediately before a trip. If a product causes irritation, it may be harder to work out what's happening while you're away.
6. Pay attention to your skin after swimming and exercise
After swimming or sweating, rinse or cleanse as appropriate and follow with moisturiser if your skin needs it.
Chlorinated water, salt water, sweat and frequent washing may leave some people feeling dry or uncomfortable. Your response can depend on your skin and the conditions.
If your skin is already irritated, keep the routine simple and avoid unnecessary scrubbing or extra active ingredients.
7. Don't forget your existing routine
You may not need to buy a new collection of summer skincare products.
Start by reviewing what you already own. If your cleanser still suits you, your moisturiser feels comfortable and your sun-protection routine is working for you, there may be no reason to replace everything.
For more seasonal advice, read our existing Spring Skin Reset guide.
Build a summer routine with My Health A-Z
Summer skincare doesn't need to be complicated. Focus on gentle cleansing, comfortable moisturising and consistent sun protection, then make small adjustments according to your preferences.
Explore the My Health A-Z skincare range to compare products and read their directions before adding anything new to your routine.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stop moisturising in summer?
No. Your skin may still benefit from moisturising during summer. If your usual product feels too heavy, consider a different texture rather than automatically skipping moisturiser.
Should I wash my face more often when it's hot?
Cleanse after heavy sweating and as needed to remove daily buildup. Avoid excessive washing or scrubbing, which can make skin uncomfortable.
Do I need sunscreen on cloudy summer days?
UV radiation can still reach your skin when it is cloudy. Check the local UV level and follow Australian sun-protection guidance when protection is recommended.
Should I exfoliate more often in summer?
Not automatically. Follow the product directions and monitor your skin. Increasing exfoliation because the weather is warmer may increase irritation for some people.
Can I use the same skincare products throughout the year?
Yes, if they continue to suit your skin and you use them as directed. Seasonal changes are a reason to review your routine, not a requirement to replace every product.