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December 12, 2025Skin: How Dehydration Affects It
December 12, 2025Summer is the most beloved season of the year, but for those with oily skin, it can be a season of increased discomfort, as unwanted shine on the face intensifies and breakouts often appear.
As annoying as this situation may be, it is perfectly normal. “Studies have shown that there is a seasonal variation in sebum (oil) production on the face. Per square centimeter, the average sebum secretion in the T-zone of the face (forehead, nose, chin) is about 97 μg/cm². In spring and winter it is slightly higher (102 and 109 μg/cm² respectively), and in summer it exceeds 156 μg/cm²,” says dermatologist-venereologist Dr. Markos Michelakis, from EDOEAP.
This increase is directly related to weather conditions, as high temperatures also increase skin dryness. The main role of sebum is to keep the skin hydrated. Therefore, sebaceous glands increase their secretion to protect the skin.
Additionally, when it is very hot, sweating increases to regulate internal body temperature. If humidity is also high, sweating increases even more. Along with it, sebum production increases, making the skin even oilier.
The combination of heat and humidity also reduces cell turnover. Combined with excess sebum production, this can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts.
This situation often leads to incorrect responses. “Many people try to combat extra oiliness by washing their face too frequently or using ‘harsh’ soaps,” says Dr. Michelakis. “Excessive washing has the opposite of the desired effect because it dries out the skin, causing sebaceous glands to produce even more oil. It can also disrupt the skin’s pH, making it more prone to acne.”
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to reduce summer oiliness. First, it is important to wash your face in the morning and at night, as well as after exercise. Use a gentle cleanser suitable for the face. Avoid the temptation to rub your skin vigorously, as scrubbing irritates the skin and worsens its appearance.
Also care for your skin using cosmetics (cleansers, moisturizers, makeup) labeled as alcohol-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic (won’t cause whiteheads or blackheads).
Do not skip daily moisturizing, even if you have oily skin. Your moisturizer should be lightweight and non-comedogenic. To save time, it can also contain broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
If your moisturizer does not contain sunscreen, it is important to choose a suitable facial sunscreen. This sunscreen should be lightweight and contain ingredients that prevent breakouts (e.g., zinc oxide, titanium dioxide). It should not contain fragrances or oils.
It is also advisable to use cleansers, toners, and serums with exfoliating ingredients that keep pores clear of excess sebum. Such ingredients include glycolic acid and salicylic acid. However, use them only once or twice a week and always protect your skin with good sunscreen, as they increase sun sensitivity.
It is very important to always remove makeup before going to bed, without rubbing your skin too hard, using a light, cooling product.
Also, avoid touching your face during the day unless your hands are thoroughly washed. Otherwise, you transfer dirt, bacteria, and oils from your hands to your facial skin.
Finally, you can try reducing oil throughout the day using special oil-absorbing papers or sheets. Do not press them too hard on your face, do not leave them for too long, and do not rub your skin with them. Apply gentle pressure for a few seconds on areas with excess sebum.
“The skin of each person is different, and there is no single ‘recipe’ for skincare suitable for everyone. If you feel that despite your efforts, your skin remains oily or you struggle with blackheads and pimples, consult a dermatologist,” concludes Dr. Michelakis.
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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30238598/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-skin/dermatologist-tips-for-fighting-oily-summer-skin/
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-rid-of-oily-skin/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-get-rid-of-oily-skin
https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-oily-skin
