Summer is one of my favorite times of year. Longer days, vacations, and more time outdoors are all things to enjoy.
But every summer, I also notice the same pattern in my clinic.
Patients come in with skin that's become dry, irritated, uneven, or showing new dark spots after months of sun exposure. In many cases, these concerns could have been prevented with just a few simple adjustments to their daily routine.
The truth is, your skin behaves differently in warmer weather. Heat, humidity, sweat, swimming, and increased UV exposure all place additional stress on your skin. Fortunately, you don't need an entirely new routine—you just need to avoid a few common mistakes.
Want a simple skin care routine that works year-round?
Download my Ultimate Skin Care Guide to learn what products to use, when to use them, and how to create a routine that supports healthier-looking skin.
Here are four of the biggest summer skin care mistakes I see, and how to avoid them.
1. Applying Sunscreen Only Once
Most people remember to apply sunscreen before heading outside.
The problem is that many people don't reapply it.
Sweat, swimming, and even everyday outdoor activities gradually reduce sunscreen's effectiveness throughout the day. If you're spending extended time outside, reapplying sunscreen every two hours is one of the simplest ways to better protect your skin.
Remember, sunscreen isn't just for beach days. Walking the dog, gardening, driving, or eating lunch on a patio all contribute to cumulative UV exposure over time.
Consistent sun protection is one of the most effective ways to help reduce the appearance of premature aging, dark spots, and sun damage.
2. Choosing the Wrong Sunscreen
One question I hear often is, "Which sunscreen is best?"
The answer is simple: the one you'll actually wear every day.
There are excellent mineral and chemical sunscreen options available, and each has its advantages.
Some people prefer chemical sunscreens because they tend to blend easily without leaving a white cast. Others prefer mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which sit on the skin's surface and provide broad-spectrum protection. The best sunscreen is the one you'll apply consistently every day.
One type I generally recommend avoiding is spray sunscreen whenever possible. Sprays can be difficult to apply evenly, and there's also the potential to inhale the product—especially for children.
If you're looking for options, I've put together a list of my favorite sunscreen recommendations to help you choose one that fits your skin and lifestyle.
3. Forgetting to Hydrate Your Skin
Summer doesn't just increase oil production—it can also leave your skin dehydrated.
Sun exposure, swimming pools, air conditioning, and hot temperatures all pull moisture from your skin, sometimes leaving it feeling tight or irritated even when it appears oily.
That's why moisturizing remains an essential step during the summer.
The key is choosing a lightweight moisturizer that supports your skin barrier without feeling heavy.
One of my favorites is the YOUN Beauty Peptide + Bakuchiol Moisturizer, which helps replenish hydration while supporting smoother, healthier-looking skin.
4. Waiting Until Damage Appears
One of the biggest mistakes I see is treating skin care as something only necessary after problems develop.
By the time dark spots, wrinkles, or sun damage become noticeable, much of the damage has already occurred.
Healthy skin is built through prevention.
That means adopting a few consistent habits you can stick with every day:
-
Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning.
-
Reapply sunscreen every two hours when you're outdoors.
-
Apply an antioxidant serum, like the YOUN Beauty CE Antioxidant Serum, as part of your morning routine to help defend against environmental stressors caused by everyday exposure.
-
Keep your routine simple and consistent rather than constantly switching products.
Small habits repeated every day often produce the biggest long-term improvements.
The Bottom Line
Summer doesn't have to mean dry skin, sun damage, or premature aging.
By wearing sunscreen consistently, choosing products that fit your skin type, keeping your skin hydrated, and focusing on prevention instead of correction, you can help your skin stay healthy throughout the season.
Remember, the best skin care routine isn't the most complicated one—it's the one you'll actually follow every day.
If you'd like to build a simple, science-backed routine, download my Ultimate Skin Care Guide, where I walk through exactly what to use, when to use it, and how to keep your skin looking its best all year long.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I reapply sunscreen?
If you're outdoors, sunscreen should generally be reapplied every two hours, or more often after swimming or excessive sweating.
Should I use mineral or chemical sunscreen?
Both can be effective. The best choice depends on your skin type, preferences, and which formula you'll wear consistently.
Do I still need moisturizer during the summer?
Yes. Heat, sun, swimming, and air conditioning can all dehydrate your skin, making daily hydration important even in warmer weather.
Is sunscreen enough to prevent premature aging?
Sunscreen is one of the most important steps, but pairing it with antioxidants, proper hydration, and a consistent skin care routine provides even greater protection.
Should I wear sunscreen if it's cloudy?
Absolutely. UV rays can penetrate clouds, so daily sunscreen is recommended regardless of the weather.
Recommended Products
Free Guide
Related Reading