Do I still need a night moisturizer in summer?

Why moisturize when my skin already feels oily?

Warmer weather encourages oil production, but keeping natural moisture and controlling excess oil are separate jobs. Moisturizers add water to the skin and reduce water loss. Oily skin can still benefit from moisturizer after cleansing, especially when harsh washing has left it irritated or dry. Trying to wash away every trace of oil can trigger more oil production.123

What should I do tonight?

1. 1Remove makeup before bed and wash gently. Use a mild cleanser rather than scrubbing or trying to leave your skin completely oil free.
2. 2Apply moisturizer after cleansing. After a shower, apply it while your skin is still damp to help retain water.
3. 3Match the texture to your skin. Consider a gel for oily skin, a lotion for mild dryness, or a cream for skin that stays dry. For combination skin, apply moisturizer to dry patches rather than automatically covering the whole face.

Slightly dry skin may need only a light moisturizer at night; more substantial dryness needs more frequent application. Moisturizer reduces dryness and supports the skin barrier, the outer layer that helps retain water. Choose a texture that meets that need rather than assuming thicker means better. A gel feels lighter than a cream, so the thickest jar does not automatically win.14

Can I keep the same moisturizer for summer and winter?

Yes, if the same moisturizer still suits your skin's dryness and feels comfortable. Switch textures when your needs change, rather than replacing a product simply because the season changed. For oily skin, look for products labeled "oil free" and "noncomedogenic," meaning formulated not to block pores. For dry or sensitive skin, choose a fragrance free moisturizer. Heavy, occlusive products, which form a layer that reduces water loss, can aggravate acne.134

How do I remove a day of sweat without overcleansing?

Wash up to twice daily and after sweating, using a gentle cleanser without scrubbing. A water based cleanser removes sweat and dirt. Use lukewarm rather than hot water, and pat dry with a soft towel. Most people need one thorough cleanse, not two, even if a second bottle would make the bathroom shelf look more committed. Repeated washing can cause dryness, irritation and damage to the skin barrier.35

Should I use a cleansing oil when my skin is oilier in summer?

Not just because your skin is oilier. An oil cleanser followed by a water based cleanser can help remove waterproof makeup or sunscreen, but oil cleansers can cause breakouts in acne prone skin, especially when used alone. A gentle water based cleanser is the simpler starting point. If makeup needs extra removal, micellar water before your cleanser is another option.5

When should I change course?

Stop or reduce products that irritate your skin. See a dermatologist if dryness persists despite gentler cleansing and moisturizing, or becomes painful, cracked, bleeding or very irritating. If troublesome oiliness has not improved after a month or two of routine changes, seek help choosing products or treatment.123