5 Skincare Mistakes You're Probably Making This Summer

Introduction

Summer is all about sunshine, vacations, and glowing skin—but it’s also a time when skincare mistakes can sneak in and sabotage your complexion. Whether it's forgetting SPF or overloading on exfoliants, these seasonal missteps can leave your skin stressed and vulnerable. The good news? With a few simple tweaks, you can protect and nourish your skin all summer long.

Let’s uncover five common summer skincare mistakes you might be making—and how to fix them for your healthiest, happiest skin yet.

Mistake #1: Skipping Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

It’s easy to assume that if the sun’s not blazing, you’re in the clear. But UV rays can penetrate clouds and even windows, causing damage without any sunburn in sight.

• Solution: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 every single day, rain or shine. Look for formulas with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—they’re gentle on sensitive skin and offer immediate protection. Many high-quality sunscreens also include antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea to help fight free radicals, giving your skin an extra boost.

Mistake #2: Using the Same Skincare Routine Year-Round

Your winter moisturizer may be too heavy for humid summer days, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Skin's needs shift with the seasons, and your routine should too.

• Solution: Swap heavy creams for lightweight, hydrating gels or emulsions. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and niacinamide offer moisture without the weight. A well-formulated, high-quality summer moisturizer can help balance oil production while keeping your skin comfortably hydrated.

Mistake #3: Over-Exfoliating in an Effort to "Clear Things Up"

Exfoliation can give you that coveted summer glow—but going overboard strips the skin’s barrier, leading to irritation, increased sun sensitivity, and breakouts.

• Solution: Limit exfoliation to 2–3 times per week, and alternate between gentle chemical exfoliants (like lactic or mandelic acid) and soothing ingredients like chamomile or calendula. A good skincare line will often balance exfoliating products with calming botanicals to avoid overdoing it.

Mistake #4: Forgetting to Reapply Sunscreen

Even if you start the day with SPF, it loses effectiveness over time—especially with swimming, sweating, or just being outdoors. Forgetting to reapply is one of the most common (and damaging) missteps.

• Solution: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and more often if you're in the water or sweating heavily. Keep a mineral SPF mist or powder in your bag for quick, no-fuss reapplication. Premium products are often formulated to sit well over makeup, so there’s no excuse not to stay protected.

Mistake #5: Neglecting Post-Sun Care

A day in the sun—even with protection—can leave your skin thirsty and stressed. Skipping after-sun care prevents your skin from fully recovering and can accelerate signs of aging over time.

• Solution: After sun exposure, cleanse gently and follow with hydrating serums or masks featuring aloe, panthenol, or licorice root. High-quality post-sun products are often infused with reparative botanicals and antioxidants to calm redness and replenish moisture levels quickly.

Conclusion

Summer skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a little extra attention. By avoiding these common mistakes and making smart, seasonally appropriate swaps, you can keep your skin healthy, protected, and glowing all summer long.

Looking for product recommendations or a summer skincare refresh? Visit our website or stop by our spa—we’re here to help you find the right high-performance products to suit your summer skin needs.