Skincare Routine for Humid Climates
Arid environments can take a toll on your skin, but humid climates can spell trouble in a different way. While having extra moisture in the air can be beneficial, it can also contribute to other skin-related issues like oil- and blemish-prone skin. Staying on top of skincare for humid weather will help your face feel comfortable and appear radiant — minus any greasy or heavy feeling, of course. To learn how to care for skin in humid climates, follow our Desert Essence-approved tips and tricks ahead.
Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse!
For those who live in humid climates, cleansing is a non-negotiable skincare step. With extra humidity in the air, your pores can open up and increase sebum production, allowing sweat and impurities to build up in your pores. As a result, you might experience more blemishes, irritation and greasiness.
Finding the just-right cleanser to use in your morning and nightly regimens is essential. To remove all traces of makeup and debris, you can go in with a double cleanse, starting with jojoba oil and a quick rinse before you use a traditional facial cleanser. Then, gently remove impurities while nourishing your skin with a cleanser like Desert Essence Thoroughly Clean Face Wash. To remove excess oil and tighten pores after cleansing, you can also incorporate purifying Desert Essence Cucumber & Aloe Facial Toner, which harnesses oil-controlling botanicals such as tea tree oil and witch hazel.
Hydration is key!
Those who dwell in hot and humid climates will want to stay on top of hydrating themselves. Usually, the air will help evaporate sweat on the skin and cool your skin down. However, humid climates make it so that moisture sticks around on your skin longer, which can cause your body temperature to increase — you may also feel sticky. It’s crucial to stay hydrated to keep your body from losing water. Not only are your cells and tissues (including the ones that make up skin) made up of water, but they also depend on it to carry nutrients and oxygen to cells and protect your tissues.
Choose the right SPF for your skin type
In hot and humid climates, there’s a good chance that you’ll be soaking up some sun. With increased sun exposure, SPF is a must. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, you want to pick a broad-spectrum SPF that counters both UVA and UVB rays. As for the number, keep your eyes peeled for an SPF 30 or higher. It's also a good idea to pick out a sunscreen that is water resistant to maintain SPF coverage.
Beyond picking up a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 sunscreen, you may also want to consider your skin type. If you’re prone to blemishes or have sensitive skin, it’s worth looking into an oil-free or mineral formula. That said, a tinted mineral sunscreen can also ease the grayish cast with its hint of color.
Nourish your skin
Is humidity good for your skin? In moderation, yes! If you live somewhere humid, you might not be as affected by dry skin. But daily moisturizing will help nourish your skin barrier, so opt for a lightweight moisturizer that doesn’t feel too heavy on your face. For skin that feels silky smooth, nourish yourself with Desert Essence Daily Essential Facial Moisturizer, which rehydrates skin with jojoba oil, organic aloe and safflower oil. Because it’s lightweight and non-greasy, you can even wear this beneath your makeup. You can also pick up a tea tree oil-based treatment such as Desert Essence Blemish Touch Stick and Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Soothing Skin Ointment to soothe and calm skin that may be irritated from the extra humidity.
Don't forget your lips and eyes
Along with moisturizing your face, don’t forget other parts of your face, including your lips and your eyes. Shade up with sunglasses when you’re going out and about in the sun, and remember to nourish the skin around your eyes when you moisturize. For kissably soft lips, keep a soothing lip balm handy inside of your bag.
Rain, shine or unrelentingly humid air, your skin deserves loving attention and care daily. Being diligent about cleansing your face and opting for lightweight moisturizers will help replenish your complexion when you live in a humid climate. For pure botanical goodness, browse Desert Essence Skin Care to prep for your humid climate facial routine.