Changes in the season can cause fluctuations in your skin. For example, you may find your skin a bit more dry in the winter and more oily in the spring and summer months.
If your skin tends to be oily naturally, chances are that summer will not be a fun time for you. Warm weather will stimulate break outs because the increased heat stimulates the production of perspiration and sebum. Sebum is the whitish fluid that appears in the pores and is created naturally in your sebaceous glands. Each pore has its own little gland and the purpose is to protect your skin from the environment and bacteria.
In the heat we sometimes wipe at our face more frequently (although usually subconsciously) which introduces more bacteria into your pores and will encourage the proliferation and spread of acne. If you tend to have dry skin, you might notice that it does become more oily in the hot months. However, it may also become drier due to sun and environmental exposure because we usually spend more time out doors at that time of year and we expose more of our skin than at other times.
Whatever your challenges, keep two rules in mind all the time. Always, always, always use sunscreen. At least an SPF 15 is necessary when you are out in the sun, and don’t forget to reapply your product based on manufacturer’s instructions. We believe that SPF of at least 30 is a better base, but whatever you choose, remember that it will not last all day. Look for products that have ingredients like zinc and titanium, which are good for your skin and won’t cause reactions that chemical products might, and make sure that it is called “broad spectrum” which means that it blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
Lastly, your normal skin care regimen may need seasonal adjustments due to the changes in weather and the ways in which they affect your skin. You may need to cleanse more often if oil production increases and adjust the strength of products like moisturizers-lighter in the summer and heavier in the winter. Whatever you do, don’t stop using moisturizer even if you are more oily than usual as your skin will take that as a signal that you are getting dry and will increase the production of oils to compensate.
Always consult a skin care professional to determine your true skin type and help select the best products for you. Beyond Harmony Med Spa has a fantastic staff of highly trained technicians who are always ready to answer your questions. Call them at 661-298-8008 or drop by 18635 Soledad Canyon Road, suite 101, for a free consultation.