Dermatologist Approved Ways To Combat Oily Skin During The Summer

Between the humidity and the beating sun, summertime can leave your skin looking a little oily. Your skin naturally produces oils to protect your face and keep things moisturized. But, when you've just applied the perfect eyeliner streak, oil can be an unwelcome companion.

As for why your skin gets a greasy glow in the heat, Hadley King, MD, explains to Mindbodygreen, "During the summer, temperatures and humidity levels rise. These changes stimulate the sweat glands to produce more sweat and the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. Increased sweat production cools the skin by evaporation, and increased oil production helps to slow the evaporation of sweat to extend the cooling effect."

A natural process that serves as a cooling device, oil production is necessary for healthy, hydrated skin. So, when you plan to remove excess oil from your face, make sure not to overdo it. After all, when your skin is dehydrated, it actually produces more oil and leaves your cells defenseless from the elements, the outlet adds. 

Switch up your cleanser during the summer months to a product that moisturizes while reducing oil production. Tea tree products contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that fight blemishes extremely effectively, leaving you with a clean face and less oil.

Of course, using heavy, creamy foundations and lotions during the summer is a non-starter. Eminence Organic Skincare suggests going makeup free for a few days to give your skin a break from the layers of product. Furthermore, melting cosmetics can clog your pores — leading to even more oil production. Especially underneath the heat, tons of makeup can wreak havoc on your skin's appearance and overall health. 

The company also notes that spicy foods and alcohol can also spur heightened oil production, particularly when combined with the summer heat. The heat of the foods can increase your internal heat index, making you sweat and produce oil. Steer clear if you're trying to reduce oil production on your skin. On the other hand, Allure reports, foods high in Vitamin A, such as carrots, cucumbers and cantaloupe actually reduce oil. During the summer time, make the switch from spicy foods to these cooling additions.

Lastly, frequent exfoliation can help keep your skin looking clear. By clearing out the excess debris in your pores, this step helps reduce oil production as well. 

Just like during the colder months, summer may require a different skincare routine than you use the rest of the year. If you're noticing more oil, just switch out a few of your heavier products with a new regimen.