Hong Kong’s summer is hot and humid with strong UV rays, making proper skincare essential. With more outdoor activities, smooth skin is a must-have.
During summer, sweat and oil secretion on the skin increase, making it prone to fungal and bacterial growth that can lead to skin problems such as eczema, folliculitis, and acne. Excessive oil secretion is a common cause of acne breakouts, which can be exacerbated by the heat and the proliferation of acne bacteria. Over-cleansing the skin can damage the skin’s natural moisture barrier and reduce its protection. It’s essential to clean the skin appropriately, with a facial cleanse in the morning, at noon, and at night. Individuals with oily skin can use products containing salicylic acid to reduce oil secretion and unclog pores.
Summer heat and UV rays can cause water loss, and sweat secretion can cause oil loss, leading to dry skin. It’s vital to moisturize your skin with products containing water-attracting ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, and oil-locking ingredients such as petrolatum, mineral oil, and grapeseed oil. Choose lightweight “water-attracting” moisturizers to minimize pore blockage and avoid drying ingredients such as alcohol and clay. Some people use spray-type moisturizing water to cool their skin, but these may contain alcohol, which can dry out the skin even more.
During summer, UV rays are intense, and sunscreen is crucial. Apply sunscreen every three to four hours, and water-resistant sunscreen is essential for water activities. After swimming, rinse your skin thoroughly with water to remove chlorine from swimming pools or salt from seawater, which can cause skin dullness and dryness. Remember, a laser hair removal session takes four to five weeks, and three to four treatments are necessary for results. It’s also possible to consider botulinum toxin injections to reduce excessive sweating, which can be embarrassing in social situations.
Hong Kong’s summer is a time for outdoor fun and showing off smooth skin. Proper skincare is critical, and it’s important not to be lazy.