why your skin craves hydration when it’s humid
Living in Southwest Florida means dealing with high humidity essentially year-round. However, the summer months are worse. Definitely worse. With all that moisture in the air, you’d think your skin would be drenched with hydration. And in a way, it is. Because humidity causes us to sweat more and causes your skin to produce more oil. And water (sweat) and oil (sebum) are the two ways your skin keeps itself dewy and hydrated.
However, excess sweat and oil can lead to a buildup of bacteria and dirt which then causes irritation, potential redness, acne and blackheads. Likely when your pores are clogged like this, you start exfoliating daily, you over cleanse, and this causes your skin to dry out even more.
The other factor that can cause dehydration of the skin in humid climates is transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This occurs when water evaporates from the surface of the skin, affecting the skin barrier.
But humidity isn’t all bad. With the right balance of products, your skin can benefit from the added moisture in the air. Looking plumper and more youthful that our friends up North.
Skincare is a fine balance between excess and depletion. Oily and dry. And finding your secret sauce of products, skincare treatments and water consumption is frustrating as hell.
Here are My Top Skincare Tips for Humid Weather
1. Use lightweight moisturizers or facial oils. Now isn’t the time for a heavy, thick cream you would apply during the Winter months. Change out your products. Look for water-based or perhaps gel-based products (especially if your skin is on the oilier side).
2. Choose an oil-free sunscreen. You need to be wearing sunscreen every day. A true sunscreen, not just a makeup product that says it contains sunscreen. Protecting against UVA and UVB rays is going to help long-term with anti-aging, fine lines and wrinkles and dart spots.
3. Exfoliate 2-3 times per week. Using a glycolic acid or a salicylic acid product a few times per week can help get rid of bacteria and remove dead skin cells.
4. Wash your face in the evening. During the day, not only are you likely wearing makeup and sweating, but your skin encounters dirt and pollutants. Always wash your face in the evening. And if you exercise in the morning, wash your face then too.
5. Get a Facial! Typically, I recommend my clients get a facial every 6-8 weeks. But during the summertime in Florida, it should be more like every 3-4 weeks. A facial treatment at rebel + dart is not only a therapeutic experience for your body and soul, but it’s going to help keep your skin clear and improve cell turnover – which is vital in ensuring your skin is smooth, healthy and glowing.