Here’s how you can build the best summer skincare routine to keep your oily or combination skin healthy and glowing.
1. Gentle Cleansing Twice a Day
In summer, your skin produces more oil, which can easily trap dirt and sweat. Choose a lightweight, gel-based cleanser that removes impurities without stripping away natural moisture. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil, known for controlling oil and preventing breakouts.
Tip: Avoid harsh cleansers that leave your skin feeling tight — this often leads to more oil production as your skin tries to compensate.
2. Incorporate a Hydrating Toner
Toners help balance your skin's pH and prep it for the next steps. For oily and combination skin, opt for alcohol-free toners with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, witch hazel, or green tea extract. These hydrate without making your skin greasy.
Brands like Glow Recipe and Kiehl’s offer excellent options, readily available through trusted stores like Rack Essentials, where you can find 100% authentic skincare products in Pakistan.
3. Use Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
Skipping moisturizer because you have oily skin is a big mistake. Dehydrated skin produces even more oil to compensate. The key is to select a gel-based or water-based moisturizer.
Products like Neutrogena Hydro Boost or Clinique Moisture Surge are perfect for delivering hydration without the heavy feel. Both are designed specifically for skin types that need moisture without added shine.
4. Don't Forget Sunscreen
Sunscreen is non-negotiable, even for oily skin. Choose broad-spectrum, matte-finish sunscreens like La Roche-Posay Anthelios or COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream. These provide excellent protection without making your skin look greasy.
Make it the final step of your morning routine and reapply every few hours if you're outdoors.
5. Exfoliate Smartly
Gentle exfoliation is necessary to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Stick to chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid (BHA) once or twice a week instead of abrasive scrubs, which can cause micro-tears in the skin.
A product like The Ordinary’s Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is ideal for oily and combination skin — effective yet gentle.
6. Keep Blotting Papers Handy
On particularly hot days, blotting papers can be your best friend. They absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup or irritating your skin. Make it a habit to dab (not rub) during the day.
Final Thoughts
Managing oily and combination skin during summer isn’t about stripping your skin dry — it’s about balance. By incorporating lightweight, hydrating, and oil-controlling products into your daily routine, you can achieve a fresh, clear complexion no matter how high the temperature rises.
For authentic skincare solutions perfectly suited for Pakistan’s summers, platforms like Rack Essentials offer a wide range of dermatologist-recommended products that cater to your skin’s changing needs — ensuring you stay radiant all season long.