It might feel like it's summer all year round in a tropical country like the Philippines, but we can all agree that the heat gets more unbearable than usual during the months of March and May.
In March 2022, we reached our highest heat index at 53 degrees Celsius. We don't even want to imagine how hot it'll be this year. So with summer fast approaching, all we know is that we've got to be prepared to give our skin the best sun protection, especially if we're planning to go to the beach.
We went ahead and asked Dra. Christine B. Chio, the Medical Operation Manager of Avignon Clinic, how we can keep our skin in pristine condition for the summer. Keep reading to know more!
How to Protect Your Skin During the Summer, According to a Dermatologist
According to Dra. Christine Chio, hot weather leads to dry skin and irritation since we lose more water in our bodies. She also explained that people who spend more time exposed to the sun have a greater chance of developing hyperpigmentation.
The dermatologist advises to avoid anything harsh or strong that can cause peeling. "These [types of] products make our skin more sensitive to the sun, thus making our skin more prone to formation of pigments," she explained.
Skincare containing retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), and accutane increase sun sensitivity. If you have these ingredients in your beauty routine, only wear them at night, out of direct sunlight.
Meanwhile, to avoid said skin dryness, irritation, and hyperpigmentation, there are two key products she advises us to use in our summer skincare routine: sunscreen and moisturizer.
SHOP: Best Products to Wear During Summertime for Protection
For face and neck sunscreen, she highly recommends using the Heliocare Mineral Tolerance Fluid because of its ability to protect the skin against the four types of radiation, namely UVB, UVA, Visible and Infrared, that can damage the skin. It also has a gentle, non-irritating, and lightweight formula that is perfect for all skin types including those who are oily and prone to acne.
360 Mineral Tolerance Fluid, P2100, HELIOCARE, Lazada
For the body, she recommends the Heliocare Advanced Spray Sunscreen. Similar to the 360 Tolerance Fluid, this has a non-greasy formula that doesn't end up feeling sticky even when you start sweating. The spray allows you to spread the product on your body with ease to ensure full body coverage.

Advanced Spray SPF 50, P3400, HELIOCARE, Lazada
She also advises us to keep a good moisturizer on hand to avoid skin dryness and irritation from the heat.
It's a common misconception that we should avoid moisturizers when it's hot, especially in a humid country like the Philippines, since it can lead to breakouts. Yes, there is some truth to this especially since most cream moisturizers contain occlusives, such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline), oil, silicone, and wax, that can clog the pores.
However, water-based moisturizers are a different story. If you're looking for a good non-clogging moisturizer that's great for summer ,we suggest Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream for Combination to Oily Skin. It's ultra-hydrating and feels comfortable even in hot, humid weather.
Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream For Combination To Oily Skin, P2270, LANEIGE, sephora.ph
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