Humidity-Proof Your Skincare

You know that feeling… the sticky, heavy air that clings to your skin, even without sunshine (and even more so when the sun is out). When humidity is high, it’s hard to feel comfortable and your skin feels it too. Whether it’s the constant shine, unexpected dryness, or sudden breakouts, muggy weather can throw your usual routine off balance. Your skin might feel sticky or greasy in some areas, dry in others, and suddenly your go-to skincare products feel heavy and suffocating—while breakouts begin to surface.

So what can you do about it? Here are our top humidity skincare tips to help you feel fresh, balanced, and in control — even on the stickiest of days.

Choose a gentle but effective cleanser

When the humidity is high, sweat, pollution and SPF can build up on the skin fast. Build up can lead to congested skin and breakouts – so cleansing effectively is essential. Look for a lightweight gel or milk cleanser which can help to remove that grime, whilst keeping the skin barrier intact.

Hydrate with mists and serums

The air is already thick with moisture, you might find your normal heavier creams are too much. Water based hydration is key – look for serums or essences with humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin or aloe to layer under your SPF as this will attract moisture to the skin without weighing it down.

A face mist is also a great way to refresh and rehydrate your skin – it feels amazing too. Keep your favourite mist in the fridge and spritz whenever you need a refresh.

Switch up the texture of your moisturiser

Even during the heat and high humidity, your skin still needs moisture to seal in hydration and keep it happy. Don’t skip it just because your skin feels greasy by lunchtime: switch up what you use. Try a gel-cream or emulsion as these will be more breathable. Products with niacinamide or green tea will help balance oil and calm inflammation.

Simplify the AM routine

Humidity is the perfect excuse to pare things back. Save your active serums and richer products for the evening. In the mornings, stick to a simple routine: cleanse, hydrate, moisturise, and apply SPF. Your skin will thank you.

Exfoliate gently

Increased sweat, sebum, and SPF can lead to clogged pores, dullness, and breakouts especially during sticky, humid weather. Regular exfoliation helps keep your skin clear, smooth, and more receptive to the rest of your routine.

Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid (brilliant for oily or acne-prone skin), lactic acid (gentle but effective for dry or sensitive skin), or PHA (ideal for reactive skin) help dissolve dead skin cells without the need for scrubbing.

Don’t forget Bodycare

It’s not just your face that feels sticky and congested… your body needs attention too.

If you’re experiencing back and chest breakouts (AKA ‘bacne’) try using a body wash with salicylic acid or tea tree to reduce inflammation and clear pores.

If your underarms and inner thighs are irritated due to increased chafing and sweat, try using a lightweight talc free body powder, aloe based gel or soothing balm to keep the skin calm and dry.

Make sure you’re also exfoliating your body regularly to smooth any rough areas.

Don’t forget to moisturise because your skin can still get dehydrated – choose fast absorbing lotions or body gels with ingredients like niacinamide, aloe or urea.

Reapply Your Deodorant

High humidity can mean more sweat and not just on your face. Choosing the right deodorant can help you feel fresh and confident, even on  the most muggy of days.

If you’re sensitive or looking for a more skin-friendly option, look for a natural deodorant with ingredients like magnesium, zinc, or arrowroot to neutralise odour without blocking sweat completely. Or if you need extra protection, opt for a lightweight antiperspirant that won’t feel heavy or chalky.

You can even look for deodorants with soothing ingredients like aloe or niacinamide to care for delicate underarm skin that’s been irritated by the heat.

Rethink your shower routine

You’re feeling hot and sweaty – chances are you’re showering more than usual. However, this can strip your skin of its natural oils, so opt for lukewarm showers and use gentle, non stripping body washes to support your skin barrier. Don’t forget to apply a lightweight body lotion or oil while the skin is slightly damp after showering to seal in hydration.

SPF… of course!

SPF is a key part of your daily routine and as a reminder… if you’re sweating more, your SPF can wear off quicker so make sure to reapply. In the summer heat, some formulas can feel sticky or clog pores so look for gel or fluid sunscreens, as well as mineral options that have a light matte finish.

Support your skin from the inside out

Your skin isn’t just affected by what you put on it, but it reflects how you feel too. Make sure to stay hydrated as this is very important, particularly if you’re sweating more. If the humidity is leaving you feeling foggy, try a cooling breathwork practice or a short grounding ritual to reset. Now is the time to incorporate hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers and more which are rich in nutrients as well as water.

Humidity might make things feel a bit sticky, but your skincare routine doesn’t have to. Keep it simple, light, and nourishing, and you’ll feel fresh and glowing no matter the weather. Here’s to comfortable skin and carefree days ahead!