From Austin to Miami: I Requested Estheticians to Share Their Top Tricks for Managing Skin in High Temperatures

From Austin to Miami: I Requested Estheticians to Share Their Top Tricks for Managing Skin in High Temperatures

      I adore summer. In fact, I would even say it's my favorite time of year. However, I’m not fond of extreme heat and humidity. Having grown up in Northern Michigan, I favor mild summers with gentle breezes, refreshing water, and a thermostat around 75°. Therefore, when a heatwave occurs, I find it challenging to 1) remain comfortable, 2) spend as much time outdoors as I wish, and 3) keep my skin in good condition. The last challenge is the hardest. With rosacea, skin irritation, and a tendency for an oily shine, I am constantly battling the adverse effects of summer on my skin. And I’m not alone in this struggle. Any esthetician will attest that high temperatures can cause problems for all skin types.

      Take it from Melissa Fox, a Celebrity Master Esthetician and the Founder of Flawless by Melissa Fox in Miami and West Palm Beach. "Living in South Florida, I witness the effects of heat on the skin every day. High temperatures don't just make us sweaty; they also heighten inflammation, which can trigger rosacea flare-ups, worsen redness, increase pigment production in melasma, and lead to what's termed tropical acne, where sweat, oil, and bacteria create the ideal conditions for breakouts." Yes, it’s definitely not ideal. Fortunately, Fox, along with Courtney Eble, MSN, FNP-BC, a board-certified nurse practitioner at Skin Pharm Austin, is prepared to share the best insider tips for maintaining calm, cool, and collected skin during a long, hot summer.

      1. Invest in At-Home Cryo Tools

      If there’s one thing to understand, it’s that high heat leads to inflammation. That’s why your skin may appear red and puffy or feel more sensitive during a heat wave. "If I had to offer one piece of advice, it would be to keep your skin cool," says Fox. "I strongly believe in daily icing, cryo globes, and professional cryotherapy treatments because cooling the skin provides immediate relief from inflammation." Check out the best at-home cryotherapy tools. High heat not only triggers inflammation but also dark spots and discoloration. Yes, heat alone can lead to hyperpigmentation, which poses a significant risk of worsening melasma. "One common misconception about melasma is that sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are sufficient," Fox explains. "They are vital, but heat itself can exacerbate melasma, even with minimal UV exposure. I always recommend using a portable neck fan outdoors because lowering your body temperature can make a significant difference." Eble concurs, stating, "Heat stimulates melanocytes, the cells that create pigment, which can worsen melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly when combined with UV exposure."

      2. Spritz a Hypochlorous Acid Spray

      For those unfamiliar, hypochlorous acid is a multifunctional ingredient that soothes irritation, calms redness, and prevents acne. It is naturally produced in our bodies—white blood cells generate it to protect us from invaders, making it a crucial component of our immune systems. Because it can kill acne-causing bacteria instantly, it's a staple in beauty editors' gym bags and carry-ons. A simple spritz now and then is adequate to help maintain skin balance even in extreme heat. Fox describes it as a "must-have" for all skin types. "It’s one of the simplest ways to refresh the skin after sweating, reduce acne-causing bacteria, and support the skin barrier without stripping or irritating it," she states.

      3. Use Vitamin C

      According to Eble, high heat increases oxidative stress on the skin (also known as free-radical damage), leading to everything from premature aging to inflammation and the aforementioned dark spots and discoloration. So, what’s the solution? It’s simple. Invest in a high-quality vitamin C serum. Eble explains that it provides antioxidant protection that helps neutralize free radicals before they can damage the skin.

      4. Swap Heavy Hydration for Hyaluronic Acid

      "Heat, sweat, and increased sun exposure can compromise the skin barrier and lead to dehydration, even if your skin feels oily," Eble notes. That’s why all types of hydration are essential. "Drinking ample water and using lightweight, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid helps maintain barrier function, decrease inflammation, and keep skin balanced without feeling heavy," she suggests. "One of my personal favorites is Skin Pharm’s Youth Serum ($115). It’s lightweight, deeply hydrating, and layers beautifully under moisturizer and sunscreen, making it an easy addition to a summer skincare regimen."

      5. Apply SPF Every Single Day

      This may seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating, especially since high temperatures often come with a high UV index. Wearing sunscreen daily is crucial for healthy aging, achieving even skin tone, preserving collagen, and more. Eble emphasizes that combining

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From Austin to Miami: I Requested Estheticians to Share Their Top Tricks for Managing Skin in High Temperatures

Essential tips for summer-ready skin.