Seasonal Skincare: What to Change in Spring & Summer

Why You Should Switch Up Your Skincare Routine for Spring & Summer?

As the seasons shift from cool and crisp to warm and sunny, our skin undergoes changes too and your skincare routine should evolve with it. As a licensed esthetician, I often tell my clients: just like you swap out your wardrobe for the season, your skincare deserves the same attention. Here’s why making a few seasonal skincare tweaks during spring and summer can lead to healthier, glowing skin—and what to focus on.

Our skin is our largest organ, and it responds to the environment around us. As temperatures rise, humidity levels increase, and we spend more time in the sun, these environmental changes can impact everything from oil production to hydration levels and sun sensitivity.

Failing to adjust your routine can lead to common seasonal issues like clogged pores, breakouts, sunburn, or dehydration. So, what should you be doing differently?

1. Lighter Products Are Your Best Friend

In the spring and summer, heavier creams can feel suffocating on the skin and may contribute to congestion or breakouts—especially if you have oily or combination skin. Trade rich moisturizers for lightweight gel-based or water-based formulas. Look for ingredients like:

• Hyaluronic Acid – Keeps your skin hydrated without the weight.

• Aloe Vera – Soothes irritated or sun-exposed skin.

• Glycerin – Draws moisture in without clogging pores.

2. SPF Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential

While SPF should be worn all year long, it becomes non-negotiable in the spring and summer. Increased sun exposure can lead to:

• Premature aging

• Hyperpigmentation (especially for melanin-rich skin tones)

• Increased risk of skin cancer

Opt for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors or sweating. Don’t forget often-missed areas like your ears, neck, and hands!

3. Exfoliate Smarter, Not Harder

Warmer weather = more sweat and oil production, which can clog pores. Regular exfoliation helps to slough off dead skin and prevent breakouts. But remember—over-exfoliation can lead to sensitivity, especially if you’re also in the sun more often.

Choose gentle chemical exfoliants like:

• Lactic acid (great for dry/sensitive skin)

• Mandelic acid (excellent for acne-prone and darker skin tones)

• Glyolic acid (ideal for oily, congested skin)

4. Hydration Is Still Key

It’s a myth that you don’t need moisturizer in the summer. Your skin still needs hydration to maintain its barrier and prevent transepidermal water loss, especially after sun exposure or swimming in chlorinated water.

Tip: Try layering a hydrating toner or essence under your moisturizer for that dewy, bouncy glow.

5. Swap Your Cleanser

Gel cleansers with balancing ingredients like tea tree, niacinamide, or green tea help remove excess oil without stripping the skin. If you’ve been using a creamy or oil-based cleanser in the winter, now’s a great time to reevaluate based on how your skin is feeling.

6. Reassess Your Makeup & Skincare Ingredients

Some active ingredients, like retinol or AHAs, can increase sun sensitivity. If you’re using them, make sure you’re doubling down on sun protection or choosing to use them in the evening only.

Consider switching to makeup with built-in SPF (as an extra barrier, not your only SPF) and non-comedogenic formulas that allow your skin to breathe.

Listen to Your Skin

Spring and summer skincare doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs to be intentional. Adjusting your routine with the seasons can prevent unwanted breakouts, dullness, and sun damage, helping you maintain radiant, healthy skin all year long.

If you’re unsure where to start, want a customized skincare plan or just a face reset book a Pamper Facial with us.