Skin Care Tips for Living in Humid Weather
October 27, 2022
“People can mistakenly think that Florida’s warm humid weather must be good for their skin,” says Orlando dermatologist Dr. Michael Steppie. “Truth is they would be both right and wrong.” Unfortunately, living with humidity in the Sunshine State is too often a matter of having too much or not enough.
“During most months, the heat and humidity cause excess sebum production that forms an oily coating to protect your skin,” Dr. Steppie explains. “While these natural lipids help to hydrate the outer layers, the buildup of sweat and humidity on the surface can lead to infections, eczema, or acne breakouts.”
When you live in Florida, being outside in the heat is often followed by a quick dip in the pool, a hot shower, and lots of air conditioning. “Your skin is covered with pores that contain hairs and sweat glands opening directly onto its surface,” Steppie adds. “Taking hot baths or exposing skin to harsh chemicals can cause dry patches on your face, scalp, neck, back, shoulders and chest. This is why daily cleansing and moisturizing are important for having healthier looking skin.”
How Pores Affect Skin Function
Pores play an essential role in skin function. Learning how to keep them clean and working efficiently allows your skin to breathe. Clogged or enlarged pores are common causes of visible changes to the skin’s surface and create a breeding ground for unwanted blemishes. Follow the steps listed below for a healthy approach to better skin care:
- Protect Your Skin – Good skin care doesn’t start with the repair process; it starts with proper skin protection. So, make it a habit to use sunscreen anytime of the year that you plan to be outside. According to the World Health Organization, up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays still penetrate the cloud cover on an overcast or rainy day.
- Cleanse Your Skin – Any buildup of dead skin cells, oil and dirt can clog pores and clogged pores are the leading cause of acne. Gently cleansing your face and trouble areas twice daily will help to exfoliate dead skin and reduce oiliness. But don’t scrub. Scrubbing can irritate your skin, cause inflammation, and make blemishes more noticeable.
- Treat Your Skin – Skin conditions have different causes and need different products to treat acne, dermatitis, and skin problems. If you have a recurring condition, you should see a dermatologist for a more exact diagnosis. OTC products that include retinol, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide may help one person but worsen conditions for another.
- Moisturize Your Skin – Skincare or beauty products that completely seal off the top layer of skin to lock in hydration can lead to closed blemishes. For optimal efficacy, use a moisturizer that promotes gradual penetration of nourishing ingredients. Routinely hydrating photo-damaged skin can revitalize its natural glow by restoring elasticity.
Although winter means shorter days and the sun is lower on the horizon, you shouldn’t stop using sun protection, as UV rays will still damage skin cells. Without the blazing heat that causes you to sweat, you may not be as thirsty, but due to the drier (less humid) air, you skin needs you to hydrate every day. According to American Academy of Dermatology, year round skin care works best when you use non-comedogenic products that don’t clog pores.
FEATURED PRODUCTS FROM ETHERAL BEAUTY
There are numerous products available to help cleanse and revitalize your skin. You can find a complete listing of SteppieMD ETHEREAL BEAUTY skincare options under the PRODUCTS tab of this website. To keep your skin well-hydrated during both summer and winter months, listed below are two of our most popular skincare delicacies:
A medicated cleanser from SteppieMD ETHEREAL BEAUTY that helps accelerate the removal of dead skin cells to unclog pores and prevent acne blemishes, pimples and blackheads from facial and neck areas. Pure glycolic acid (available in two strengths of 5% or 10%) is blended with a 2% concentration of OTC acne fighting drug salicylic acid to reduce pore size and help control breakouts. Because healthy skin is naturally acidic, this natural astringent will help restore pH balance.
NOTE: Glycolic acid causes skin to be more photosensitive, so SUN PROTECTION is a must when using Flawless Skin Cleanser.
Eternal Bliss Replenishing Cream
To make your skin care routine a little easier, Eternal Bliss has an advanced delivery system formulated with phyto-stem cells and antioxidants that act in synergy with a unique skin-identical lipid concentrate. This nutritious cream actively replenishes dry dull skin to help restore smoothness, suppleness and glow. In addition, the paraben-free formula is hypoallergenic and appropriate for treating wind, cold, and sun-damage in both women and men.
Since your skin protects you from the outside world of harsh contaminants and UV exposure, it is important to adjust your skincare routine for seasonal changes in humidity (both inside and outdoors). Whereas acne and dermatitis can occur at any age, establishing a daily routine for sun protection, cleansing, treating, and moisturizing can help you manage excess sebum production and reduce clogged pores for healthier skin. To learn more about our skincare products, use the convenient Contact Us form for prompt email response.