From lighter moisturizers to adjusting retinol use, four top dermatologists believe achieving glowing summer skin is more about adapting skin care routines rather than overhauling them and ditching active formulas. As temperatures rise, experts say these small seasonal changes can help hydrate skin, prevent breakouts, and boost the skin barrier.
Dr. Whitney Hovenic, double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon
“I recommend swapping heavier creams for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer with barrier-supporting ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or niacinamide, especially in humid summer climates. Contrary to popular belief, you can absolutely continue your retinol through the summer by switching to a lower-potency formulation and using it only at night, always paired with a good moisturizer and daily SPF.
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“Another step not to be missed in the summer, or ever, is washing your face before bed. Sweat, dirt and sunscreen build up on the skin, and forgetting this important step can lead to breakouts, so I recommend using a gentle cleanser daily and exfoliating once to twice a week.”
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, $35
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, $48
Dr. Aegean H. Chan, double-board certified in dermatology and dermatopathology
“Beyond sunscreen, one of the biggest mistakes I see people make in the summer is abandoning all of their active skin care. In many cases, this is actually the season when skin is more prone to acne flares and hyperpigmentation from heat, sweat, oil production and UV exposure. I usually recommend simplifying your routine, not stopping it entirely.
“If your skin tolerates it, continuing a retinoid through the summer can actually be very beneficial for helping manage breakouts, uneven pigmentation, and overall skin texture. There’s a common misconception that retinoids themselves increase sun sensitivity, but that’s a myth. Retinoids can sometimes cause irritation, especially when people first start using them, but they do not inherently make skin more susceptible to UV damage. The key is balancing actives with barrier-supportive skin care and being consistent with sunscreen rather than over-exfoliating or constantly changing products.”
Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray, $11
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, $69
COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream, $26
Dr. David Kim, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Soho Dermatology in New York City
“A good cleansing routine is essential in the summer so you cleanse off all the sweat, oil, makeup, pollution, and sunscreen from the face. Otherwise, all the skin care will just sit on top. Brightening serum with vitamin C, tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide will help brighten the skin and keep the pigmentation at bay.
Medik8 Retinal, $55
Skinbetter Science Eventone Serum, $170
Dr. Dendy Engelman, double board certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon
In warmer months, I recommend simplifying your routine and switching to lighter, more breathable formulations. You don’t necessarily need to stop retinol but many patients benefit from reducing frequency of use to avoid irritation, especially with increased sun exposure.
Nulastin Dermal Rejuvenating Moisturizer, $87.50
The Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum, $26
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum, $295