5 summer skincare habits to prevent sun damage, says dermatologist

Summer is often associated with vacations, beach trips, outdoor brunches, and long sunny days. While the season encourages people to spend more time outdoors, it also exposes the skin to several environmental stressors. High temperatures, excessive sweating, humidity, air pollution, dust, and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can all affect the skin's natural barrier. Add frequent transitions between hot outdoor weather and air-conditioned indoor spaces, and the skin can quickly become dehydrated, irritated, or excessively oily.

Many people continue using the same skincare routine throughout the year without realising that their skin's needs change with the seasons. Products that work well during winter may feel heavy in summer, while skipping sunscreen or not cleansing properly can increase the risk of pigmentation, acne, premature ageing, and sun damage.

According to dermatologist Dr Shreya Pagariya Golchha, Dermatologist and Hair transplant surgeon, Founder and Consultant of SuperSkinClinic, Mumbai, making a few smart adjustments to your skincare routine can help your skin stay healthy, balanced, and radiant throughout the hotter months. The focus should not be on following complicated beauty trends but on adopting evidence-based habits that protect the skin from daily damage.

Here are five dermatologist-approved skincare habits worth following this summer.

1. SWITCH TO LIGHTWEIGHT SUMMER SKINCARE PRODUCTS

Just as wardrobes change with the weather, skincare should also adapt to seasonal conditions.

Rich creams that work well in winter can feel too heavy during humid summer months. They may trap sweat, excess oil, and dirt on the skin, increasing the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.

Instead, choose lightweight moisturisers with gel or water-based formulations. These products hydrate the skin without leaving a greasy layer and help maintain the skin's protective barrier. Even people with oily skin should avoid skipping moisturiser, as dehydration can actually trigger the skin to produce more oil.

2. APPLY SUNSCREEN THE RIGHT WAY

Sunscreen remains the single most important step in any summer skincare routine. However, many people apply much less than the recommended amount, reducing the protection it provides.

Dermatologists recommend following the two-finger rule. Squeeze sunscreen in two full lines along your index and middle fingers. This amount is generally sufficient to cover the face and neck evenly.

For the best protection:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Apply it at least 15 to 20 minutes before going outdoors.
• Reapply every two hours if you are outside.
• Reapply immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.

Consistent sunscreen use not only reduces sunburn but also helps prevent pigmentation, premature wrinkles, and long-term skin damage.

3. HYDRATE YOUR SKIN FROM WITHIN

Summer heat causes the body to lose water through sweat, making hydration especially important.

Drinking enough water supports overall health and helps maintain healthy skin. Eating water-rich fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and tomatoes can also contribute to hydration.

For people looking for cosmetic treatments to improve skin hydration, dermatologists may recommend procedures such as Profhilo, an injectable treatment containing high concentrations of hyaluronic acid. Unlike traditional fillers that add volume, Profhilo is designed to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and overall skin quality.

While such treatments are optional and suitable only after consultation with a qualified dermatologist, maintaining daily hydration through water and a balanced diet remains the foundation of healthy skin.

4. MAKE DOUBLE CLEANSING PART OF YOUR NIGHT ROUTINE

Throughout the day, sunscreen, makeup, sweat, pollution, and excess oil build up on the skin. A single wash may not completely remove these impurities.

Double cleansing is an effective way to thoroughly clean the skin.

The first step involves using an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to dissolve sunscreen, makeup, and excess oil. The second step uses a gentle water-based cleanser to remove any remaining dirt and debris.

This method helps keep pores clear, reduces the chances of acne, and allows nighttime skincare products such as serums and moisturisers to work more effectively.

People with sensitive skin should choose gentle, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid irritation.

5. ADD ANTIOXIDANTS TO YOUR MORNING ROUTINE

Even the best sunscreen cannot block every harmful effect of UV rays and environmental pollution. These factors generate free radicals that contribute to collagen breakdown, uneven skin tone, and early signs of ageing.

This is where antioxidant serums become useful.

Vitamin C is one of the most widely recommended antioxidants because it helps brighten the skin, supports collagen production, and reduces the appearance of dark spots. Other ingredients such as ferulic acid can further strengthen antioxidant protection.

Applying an antioxidant serum before sunscreen provides an additional layer of defence against daily environmental damage while helping maintain a brighter, healthier complexion.

Healthy summer skin doesn't require an expensive or complicated 10-step skincare routine. Instead, consistent daily habits make the biggest difference.