Summer is a season filled with sunshine, outdoor adventures, and plenty of smiles. Whether you’re lounging on a beach, enjoying a picnic in the park, or walking through busy city streets, the warm weather is hard to resist. But while you are soaking up the sun, your skin might be quietly struggling. Heat, sweat, UV rays, and environmental exposure can create challenges for even the healthiest skin.
The truth is, many people unknowingly make small skincare mistakes during summer that end up doing more harm than good. These mistakes don’t always cause immediate damage, but over time, they can lead to dullness, sunburn, premature wrinkles, acne breakouts, and uneven skin tone.
Better still, you don’t need an elaborate routine or pricey products to solve these problems.
Let’s explore 10 common summer skincare mistakes that many people make, along with simple ways to protect your skin from seasonal stress.
1. Skipping Sunscreen
One of the most frequent mistakes is skipping sunscreen. Many people think they only need to wear it when they are at the beach or on holiday. But UV rays are present every day, even when it is cloudy. These rays can penetrate windows, so your skin is still at risk, even when you’re in the car or sitting by a sunny window indoors
Skipping sunscreen can lead to sunburn, skin peeling, dark spots, and long-term damage like wrinkles and, in serious cases, skin cancer. The right approach is to make sunscreen a daily habit. Apply a generous amount of broad-spectrum SPF each morning, and reapply every two hours when outdoors to give your skin the protection it needs.
2. Washing Your Face Too Much
Another seemingly harmless mistake is washing your face too often. It’s easy to feel like your face is greasy or sticky on hot days, making frequent washing seem like the right thing to do. But washing your face more than twice a day can strip your skin of natural oils.
These oils are important because they keep your skin balanced and hydrated. Without them, your skin may start producing even more oil, leading to clogged pores and acne. Instead, cleanse in the morning and evening using a gentle face wash. If you feel the need to refresh during the day, rinse with cool water or pat your face dry with a clean towel.
3. Ignoring Your Lips
Another often-overlooked area in summer is your lips. The skin on your lips is thinner than the rest of your face, and it doesn’t contain oil glands to protect it. That means it can dry out and burn quickly in the sun.
People often notice their lips peeling or cracking during summer, but don’t realise the sun is to blame. Using a lip balm with SPF can help prevent this. Reapply it throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking. Keeping your lips soft and protected is just as important as caring for the rest of your skin.
4. Wearing Heavy Make-up
Wearing heavy make-up during summer is another mistake that can lead to skin problems. Full-coverage foundations and powders often trap sweat and oil, especially when the temperatures are high. This clogs pores and can result in breakouts, blackheads, and uneven texture.
Your skin also needs room to breathe in hot months. Switching to lighter make-up like tinted moisturisers or BB creams can give your skin a break while still providing some coverage. If you are comfortable going makeup-free for a few hours a day, even better. Letting your skin rest and breathe can help it stay clearer and brighter throughout the season.
5. Forgetting To Moisturise
Some people also make the mistake of skipping moisturiser in summer, thinking their skin doesn’t need it when it is hot outside. But the sun, air conditioning, and even swimming pools can all dry out your skin.
When your skin lacks moisture, it becomes dull, tight, and more prone to irritation. A better approach is to use a lightweight, water-based moisturiser that hydrates without feeling heavy. These moisturisers soak into the skin quickly and help keep your face smooth and soft in the heat.
6. Not Drinking Enough Water
Hydration plays a major role in skin health during summer. It’s easy to get caught up in daily life and forget to stay properly hydrated. But when your body is dehydrated, your skin often shows it first. It may become rough, lose its natural glow, and appear more tired.
Drinking enough water throughout the day helps your skin stay plump and elastic. You shouldn’t wait until you feel thirsty. Sip water regularly, and include water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber and oranges in your diet for a natural hydration boost.
7. Over-Exfoliating Your Skin
In trying to care for their skin, some people overdo it by exfoliating too frequently. Exfoliation is a great way to remove dead skin cells and brighten your complexion. However, during summer, your skin is already under stress from the sun and heat. Scrubbing it daily or using strong chemical exfoliants too frequently can cause redness, dryness, and irritation.
Exfoliating once or twice a week is usually enough. Use gentle exfoliators and always follow up with a calming moisturiser to soothe your skin afterwards. If your skin feels tender, give it a break and allow it to recover.
8. Staying In Sweaty Clothes Too LongÂ
After workouts, beach trips, or long walks in the sun, many people stay in their sweaty clothes for hours. It might seem like no big deal, but wearing damp clothing for too long can lead to body acne, clogged pores, and even rashes.
The sweat traps dirt and bacteria against your skin, and tight clothing can make it worse. Changing into clean, dry clothes and rinsing off your skin after physical activity can prevent these problems and help your body feel fresh and comfortable again.
9. Using Harsh Products During The Day
Another mistake that causes hidden harm is using strong skincare products during the daytime. Products with ingredients like retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid can make your skin extra sensitive to the sun. If you apply them before going outside, your skin may burn or peel more easily.
These ingredients are better used at night when your skin can repair itself. During the day, opt for calming and hydrating products that support your skin barrier and help protect it from the heat. Reading product labels carefully and understanding when and how to use certain ingredients make a big difference in long-term skin health.
10. Skipping Professional Skincare Help
Finally, one of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to handle all their skincare needs alone. While home routines are helpful, they can’t do everything. Summer can bring specific issues like sunspots, clogged pores, or dehydration that require a deeper level of care.
Visiting a professional spa can make a big difference. A good facial can clean out what your cleanser can not reach and give your skin a serious refresh.
At Meridian Spa, we use professional products and advanced techniques that are gentle on the skin but highly effective. Our team knows how to care for skin that has been exposed to sun, heat and pollution, and we personalise every treatment that matches your skin type and concerns.
Bonus: Quick Summer Skin Tips
For even better results, there are a few extra habits that can keep your skin happy. Try wearing a wide-brimmed hat when you are outdoors. Use a facial mist to refresh your skin during the day. Clean your sunglasses often; they collect oils that can transfer to your skin. Get enough sleep, eat fresh fruits and veggies, and most importantly, avoid touching your face too much.
Little changes like these can make a big difference in how your skin feels and looks all summer long.
Treat Your Skin To A Summer Refresh At Meridian Spa
When it comes to skincare, small mistakes can lead to big problems, but small changes can also bring big results. By avoiding these ten summer skincare mistakes and giving your skin the care it needs, you can enjoy the sunshine without paying the price. And remember, caring for your skin is a form of self-care. It is a way to pause, relax, and give back to the body that carries you through every season.
If your skin needs expert attention, don’t wait. Book your next facial or spa treatment at Meridian Spa and give your skin the gentle, professional care it needs. We use top-quality ELEMIS products and personalised techniques to help your skin recover, refresh, and glow all summer long.Â
Use the code Spa2025 to get 20% off your next treatment, because healthy skin is always in season.
Visit us at 38 Creek Road, London, SE8 3FN
Call us at 020 8469 1961
Email us at [email protected]
Or book online today.