The word ‘summers’ instantly brings in our mind the images of bright color dresses, the scent of mangoes, vacations and beaches. While all these are good, summer is also the time when you might struggle to step out at times. Because, the moment you step out, it looks like your face is dunked in oil. Blame the humidity and pollution outside.
And don’t worry, you are not alone in this. Oily skin in summer is a universal struggle. But, there's good news. It’s totally manageable with the right tips and tricks.
Dr. Rasya Dixit, a top dermatologist in Bangalore, in this blog, shares her knowledge and some important codes on how to manage oily skin without feeling like you need to wash your face every five minutes.
Why Does Summer Turn Your Skin Into an Oil Slick?
It is actually quite simple; your skin is just overachieving. Dr. Rasya Dixit explains, “Heat and humidity stimulate the sebaceous glands, making them work overtime. Add sweat, dirt, and pollution into the mix, and your pores, all together give you a look you were not wishing upon.”
The result? Clogged pores, breakouts, and a greasy look on the face. But don’t worry, we’ve got solutions that don’t involve washing your face 20 times a day. Washing your face more often than needed can actually strip off the useful oils from the skin.
How Does The Survival Kit For Oily Skin Look Like?
It is important for everyone to understand that oily skin isn’t the enemy, bad skincare choices are. The key is to control the shine without stripping your skin of its natural goodness. Here’s a glimpse of the perfect skincare in summer routine that’ll keep your face fresh, not fried.
1. Cleanse, But Don’t Overdo
Washing your face more than twice a day? Stop right there. Over-cleansing tells your skin, “Oh no, we’re dry! Produce MORE oil!” Instead, stick to a gentle, gel-based cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil. These ingredients keep oil in check without making your skin look too thick in grease.
2. Moisturizer is NOT Your Enemy
If you think skipping moisturizer will make you less oily, think again. If your skin doesn’t get moisturizer from outside, it will just overcompensate by producing even more oil. Instead, opt for a lightweight, gel-based moisturizer that hydrates without feeling heavy. Dr. Dixit recommends, “Look for hyaluronic acid and niacinamide; they hydrate while keeping oil production balanced.”
3. Use Sunscreen, But Matte Finish Is Better
We get it, most sunscreens feel like an extra layer of grease. But skipping sunscreen is a one-way ticket to early wrinkles and sun damage. So, what is the best trick? Use a matte, gel-based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. You get some bonus points if the sunscreen has zinc oxide or niacinamide to keep oiliness at bay.
4. Blotting Papers = Instant Oil Control
For those uncomfortable moments when your face starts reflecting and shining in oil, blotting papers come to the rescue. Dab the paper on the face, don’t rub it all over, and it will absorb the oil and shine without messing up your makeup.
Follow These Lifestyle Tweaks for Less Oil on the Face and More Glow
Because great skin isn’t just about the best moisturizer for oily skin and sunscreen you apply on your face, it’s also about how you treat your body. Here are some dermatologist-recommended skincare routine for oily skin to keep the grease under control:
- Hydration is your main job - The more water you drink, the less your skin needs to produce oil to compensate.
- Go light on Makeup – Heavy foundations in summer is not a good choice. Instead, switch to tinted moisturizers for oily skin or mineral powder instead.
- Eat smart – Greasy food is greasy skin - it is the ultimate fact. Load up on fresh fruits, veggies, and omega-3-rich foods instead to keep your skin happy.
- Keep your hands off your face – This might sound tough but you don’t have to transfer all that dirt and bacteria to your skin.
- Exfoliate, but gently – A mild exfoliant with BHA (like salicylic acid) once or twice a week won’t just clear the pores but also protect the face from getting overly dry.
When to See a Dermatologist for Oily Skin?
If you’re following all the right steps but your skin is still fighting against persistent breakouts, extreme oiliness, or sudden texture changes, it’s time to book an appointment with a dermatologist in Bangalore like Dr. Rasya Dixit. Sometimes, your skin needs a little extra professional tender, loving care
Love Your Skin, Just Control the Oil and Shine
At the end of the day, oily skin isn’t the villain, it's just a skin type that is a little high-maintenance. With the right oily skin routine for summer, you can keep the glow while ditching the grease. As Dr. Rasya Dixit says, “Your skin doesn’t need to be punished, it needs to be understood. Balance is the key. When you understand your skin, picking the right products becomes easy.”
So, enjoy the summer, while keeping your skin happy, and let’s leave the oil slicks where they belong, in your kitchen, not on your face. Make this summer worth the glow.
FAQs on Managing Oily Skin in Summers
How to get rid of oily skin in summer?
Use a gentle gel-based cleanser and lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to control excess oil. Always apply a matte, gel-based sunscreen and use blotting papers for quick touch-ups.
Is vitamin C good for oily skin in summer?
Yes! Vitamin C is great for oily skin in summer. It controls excess oil, brightens skin, and protects against sun damage. Just use a lightweight, non-comedogenic serum and always follow up with sunscreen.
Which is the best face serum for oily skin in summers?
Every skin is different, so it’s best to consult a dermatologist to find the right face serum for your oily skin in summer.
How can I get a clear face in summer?
To keep your face clear in summer, wash with a gentle cleanser, use a lightweight moisturizer for oily skin. Daily, apply matte sunscreen, and exfoliate regularly. But guess what is the best tip? Drink plenty of water, coconut water, and fresh juices; healthy hydration will give your skin the real glow.
What is the best way to apply sunscreen in summer?
The best way to apply sunscreen in summer is to use a matte, gel-based SPF 30+ sunscreen. Applying two fingers' worth evenly on your face and neck 15-20 minutes before stepping out. Reapply every 2-3 hours, especially if you're sweating or outdoors.
