UV Alert: 6 Skincare Pitfalls That Sabotage Your Skin All Summer Long
Repeated heat waves, peak UV index, and frequent swimming: summer 2025 puts the skin barrier to the test. A single poorly thought-out routine is enough to trigger redness, tightness, or hyperpigmentation. To maintain an even complexion and healthy skin, review the six mistakes to avoid and correct them before your next outing.
- Skin dehydration
Heat increases trans-epidermal water evaporation; in the short term, the skin appears shiny, but deep down it dries out. The result: micro-cracks, tightness, and increased sensitivity.
- Corrective measures: Drink regularly (even before you feel thirsty) and apply a moisturizer rich in humectants twice a day (glycerin, hyaluronic acid).
2. Poorly managed sun protection
A «broad spectrum» sunscreen must offer UVA protection equal to at least one-third of the SPF; check for the UVA logo and aim for a minimum SPF of 30 for everyday use, and 50+ at the beach or in the mountains.
- Apply 2 mg/cm² (≈ half a teaspoon for the face) and reapply every two hours or after swimming/sweating.
- Remember to apply sunscreen to often-missed areas: the back of the neck, ears, the backs of the hands, and the tops of the feet.
3. Makeup overlay in hot weather
The pigments and silicones in thick foundation trap sweat and sebum, clogging pores.
- Reasonable option: Non-comedogenic face base, tinted sunscreen, mineral powder for mattifying. Long-lasting mascara is all you need for your eyes.
4. Rough cleaning
Sunscreen, sand, salt, pollution... accumulate and accelerate lipid oxidation.
- Evening routine: Oily makeup remover or balm, followed by a gentle gel with a pH of approximately 5.5.
- Avoid wipes; they move impurities around without removing them and leave behind irritating surfactants.
5. Forgotten Lips
Without sebaceous glands, lips burn and chap easily.
- Minimum shield: SPF 30+ sunscreen applied every two hours.
- Repair : balm enriched with plant waxes and shea butter, apply a thick layer at night.
6. Last-minute hair removal
Shaving or waxing creates invisible micro-lesions. Under the triple threat of UV rays, sand, and salt water, this can lead to follicular eruptions.
- Plan ahead for hair removal 48 hours before exposure, then apply a soothing emulsion based on panthenol.
Note the magnifying effect of photosensitizing drugs.
Certain anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and skin treatments increase sensitivity to UV rays. Always read the package insert; if photosensitivity is indicated, limit direct exposure and take extra care with sun protection.
