4 ways to make sure your skin survives the summer

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Earlier this summer, I noticed the skin on my neck, chest and upper arms was becoming increasingly irritated and inflamed. Whether it was red bumps, rashes or noticeably clogged pores, my décolletage area was a disaster — and I couldn’t seem to find a solution, no matter how many face washes, witch hazels, exfoliators or loofahs I threw at the problem.

After googling my symptoms, I came to the uneducated conclusion that I had “dermatitis,” and I went to a dermatologist to confirm my suspicions. (Spoiler alert: I was wrong.)

She informed me that my self-diagnosis was incorrect — huge shocker — and what I was actually experiencing was folliculitis, or clogged hair follicles that had been exacerbated by sweat and summer. (Possibly sunscreen, too.) It probably doesn’t help that I live in a large, urban area that — like any other city — experiences poor air quality due to things like car exhaust and pollution. (The doctor also told me that my long, hot showers were likely drying out my skin, which inflamed my pores even more, and recommended shorter, more lukewarm showers instead. And to my complete surprise: My over-exfoliating in the shower was apparently exacerbating the issue as well.)

So here I was, thinking UV rays were the only thing I had to worry about in the summer. And while sunscreen is certainly the most vital ingredient in any summer skin care routine, there are some other skin care tips you should consider if you, too, find your skin struggling to survive the summer months.

Chemical exfoliants are important.

While nothing has worked quite as well as a topical cream my dermatologist prescribed, what I’ve found is that a chemical exfoliant — aka glycolic acid — is far more effective than any other over-the-counter solution. The main benefit of glycolic acid is that it whisks away dead skin cells by “removing” the outer layer of your skin. In the process, it unclogs and reduces the appearance of pores, soothes irritated skin and evens out skin texture.

I’ve found that pads containing AHA — or alpha hydroxy acid — are super easy to incorporate into my skin care routine and rub all over any problem areas after the shower. I also love slathering on an AHA resurfacing cream after the shower in place of lotion. (Just remember: Chemical exfoliants can make your skin sensitive to the sun, so be careful not to use them before a beach day.)

Cerave Renewing Salicylic Acid Body Cream, $33.89

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Joah Daily Glow Peel Pads, $12.99

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Upgrade your cleanser.

So, you get the picture: Things like sweat and grime can wreak havoc on your skin during the summer months, which is why it might be best to switch your cleanser to something more powerful.

I’ve found that creamy clay cleansers are best for humid, grimy New York summers. This is probably because clay, as a substance, draws out impurities, absorbs oil and reduces shine. Let’s be real: There’s nothing like a good clay mask moment to make your pores feel squeaky clean after a day of sticky subway rides and melted makeup. (And, of course, pollution in the air will literally cause dirt particles to accumulate in your pores. It’s rough out there for skin right now.)

Many clay cleansers also work as masks, like Skinfix’s — a brand known for its dermatologist-grade products. So you get a one-two punch of pore-purifying goodness in one bottle.

Skinfix Barrier+ Foaming Clay Cleanser, $28

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Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleanser, $25

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Vitamin C. Always.

Vitamin C is important for your skin year-round, but especially in the summer months. That’s because it protects and heals skin from sun damage. A simple vitamin C serum can improve hyperpigmentation, the look of fine lines and collagen production.

I like to switch up my serums depending on my skin’s needs, and it’s no question that a vitamin C serum is the best option for the summer months. While I still use vitamin C year-round, it’s vital when my fair, freckle-prone skin is exposed to UV rays, as vitamin C improves the look of sunspots for me before they get worse.

I highly recommend incorporating vitamin C into your skin care routine forever, but especially for summer. A serum makes it simple, and I also enjoy a good vitamin C face mask to rejuvenate things when necessary.

Glossier Super Glow Vitamin C + Magnesium Serum, $28

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Murad Vita-C Triple Exfoliating Facial, $79

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Daily SPF, of course.

And here we are, circling back to sunscreen — because that’s how important it is!

It doesn’t matter if you’re working from home on a rainy day, locked inside or avoiding the sun like a weird vampire. SPF should always be a part of your skin care routine — ideally as the last step following your moisturizer.

Yes, sunscreen protects skin from those aforementioned UV rays — we know that. But it also guards your skin against harmful air pollutants — something we don’t talk about enough regarding skin care. (Again, pollution is terrible for your skin — it can cause dirt and grime to build up in your pores, and it can also break down the collagen and lipids in your skin.) And, not to mention, sunscreen improves the look of skin texture, too. What’s not to love?

Remember: You can never protect your skin too much — so even if you wear makeup with SPF in it, you should still never skip this step. The more SPF, the merrier. And healthier.

I prefer a good lightweight formula that immediately absorbs into the skin before makeup application and doesn’t leave a white film.

Dr. Brandt Skincare Liquid Sun Shield Daily Brightening Sunscreen SPF 50, $65