During summer, exposure to sunlight, heat and dry air can cause men’s skin to behave differently. By midday, the face may become oily, irritation can develop after shaving, and pores may become clogged more easily. Many people try to address these problems by washing their faces more often or using alcohol-based lotions, but these approaches can make matters worse.
Men’s skin differs from women’s in several ways: It is generally thicker, contains more collagen and has more active sebaceous glands. As a result, signs of aging may appear later, but men are more likely to experience excess oil, enlarged pores and inflammation.
These issues can become more pronounced in summer. High temperatures can increase sebum production as the skin works to protect itself and maintain moisture. At the same time, air conditioners can dry out the air at home, at work and on public transportation. The skin then loses moisture more quickly, while the sebaceous glands may become more active. The result can be skin that feels both oily and dehydrated, with pores becoming clogged more easily.
Choose a cleanser for your skin type
One of the most common summer skincare mistakes is using regular soap or alcohol-based lotions to remove excess oil. While these products may leave the skin feeling matte temporarily, they can strip away natural oils and cause the skin to produce even more sebum.
Experts recommend choosing a cleanser based on your skin type. If you have oily or combination skin, cleanse your face with a suitable product in the morning and evening. Gels containing zinc, salicylic acid or other ingredients that help control excess oil may be appropriate for this skin type and can help reduce breakouts.
For normal to dry skin, thorough cleansing in the evening may be enough. In the morning, rinsing with water is often sufficient and can help preserve the skin’s natural protective barrier. Gentle cleansers containing hyaluronic acid, allantoin, glycerin or ceramides can also help prevent the skin from becoming overly dry.
Don’t skip moisturizer
Another common misconception is that oily skin does not need moisturizer. In fact, keeping the skin adequately hydrated can be important for all skin types. When skin becomes dry or dehydrated, it may produce more oil, although sebum production is influenced by multiple factors.
During summer, lightweight, water-based gels or cream emulsions can provide hydration without leaving a heavy or sticky feeling. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin and aloe vera help attract and retain moisture. Niacinamide can help regulate oil production, while panthenol, allantoin, centella asiatica and ceramides can help soothe irritation and support the skin barrier.
Combine hydration with sun protection
In summer, you can combine moisturizing and sun protection by choosing a product that contains sunscreen. SPF 30 is generally adequate for everyday city activities, while SPF 50 or higher is a better choice for extended periods outdoors, such as a day at the beach.
In the evening, experts recommend switching to a regular moisturizer without sunscreen.
Take extra care when shaving
Hot weather can make skin more sensitive after shaving. Sweat, dust and friction can increase irritation, so shaving requires a little extra care during the summer.
Shaving after a shower can help because warm water softens the facial hair. Experts recommend using shaving gel rather than foam or lather because it can provide better lubrication and help the razor glide more easily. Shave in the direction of hair growth whenever possible. Although shaving against the grain can produce a closer finish, it can also increase the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs.
After shaving, avoid alcohol-based lotions. They may provide a temporary cooling sensation but can also dry out and irritate the skin. Instead, consider soothing products containing panthenol, allantoin or centella asiatica extract. If your skin is particularly sensitive, try shaving in the evening, giving any redness or irritation time to subside overnight.
Keep your summer routine simple
Men’s summer skincare does not have to be complicated. Gently cleanse your face, avoid harsh products that can dry out the skin, moisturize regularly and use sunscreen. This basic routine can help manage excess oil, reduce shaving irritation and keep your skin healthy during hot weather.
