Skincare Tips That Actually Work in Hot & Humid Weather

UAE Moments

12-07-2025

If your face feels like a glazed donut by 10 a.m., you're not alone.
Whether you're surviving summer in Dubai or just vacationing somewhere tropically sweaty, hot and humid weather throws your skin into chaos. Excess oil, clogged pores, surprise breakouts—it's like your skincare routine just gave up. But don't panic—we've got the ultimate skincare survival guide that actually works when the air feels like soup.
Let's keep that glow going (and the grease at bay).
💧 1. Switch to a Gentle Gel Cleanser
Humidity makes your skin produce more oil, but stripping it dry can trigger even more oil. Go for a gentle, non-comedogenic gel cleanser that cuts through sweat and grime without being harsh. Look for salicylic acid or tea tree oil to keep pores clear.
Hot tip: Cleanse twice a day—any more, and you're just overdoing it.
☁️ 2. Ditch Thick Creams for Lightweight Moisturizers
Just because it's sticky out doesn't mean your skin doesn't need hydration. But heavy creams? Not it. Use a water-based or gel moisturizer that hydrates without suffocating your skin. Look for hyaluronic acid and glycerin —they hydrate like champs without clogging things up.
🌞 3. Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable
SPF is always in, but in humid weather, go for lightweight, oil-free sunscreens. Gel or matte-finish formulas are your besties here. You want sun protection without looking like you dunked your face in baby oil.
Bonus: Look for 'non-comedogenic' and 'sweat-resistant' labels—thank us later.
🧼 4. Blotting Papers > Overwashing
Resist the urge to wash your face every hour. Instead, keep blotting papers or oil-absorbing sheets in your bag. Dab (don't rub!) to take away excess oil without messing up your makeup or your moisture barrier.
🧖‍♀️ 5. Weekly Exfoliation = Clearer Pores
When sweat, oil, and SPF build up, breakouts happen. Use a chemical exfoliant (like AHAs or BHAs) once or twice a week to gently unclog pores. Physical scrubs can irritate—skip anything with rough beads or shells.
🍵 6. Keep it Minimal (Your Skin Will Thank You)
Less is more in this weather. Humid heat already challenges your skin—don't overload it with 10-step routines. Cleanse, tone (optional), hydrate, and protect. Save the heavy stuff for nighttime or cooler seasons.
🧊 7. Store Your Skincare in the Fridge
Yes, seriously. Keeping your moisturizer or toner in the fridge gives your skin a refreshing boost and helps calm inflammation. Perfect for post-sun redness or that icky overheated feeling.
🥒 8. Face Mists Are Your Midday MVP
A good hydrating face mist (not just water!) can cool you down and refresh your skin without ruining your makeup. Look for mists with aloe, rose water, or niacinamide for extra love.
🍓 9. Eat Smart for Clear Skin
No, skincare isn't just topical. When it's hot and humid, your diet matters. Load up on water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumbers, and avoid super greasy or sugary foods that might trigger breakouts.
🧴 10. Don't Sleep With the Sweat On
That end-of-the-day cleanse is sacred. All that heat, dust, and SPF sitting on your face? Recipe for pimples. Always wash before bed, even if you're exhausted. Your future self will thank you.
Gulf Girl (or Guy) Bonus Tips 🌴
For hijabi wearers: Use breathable, sweat-wicking inner caps to avoid irritation or clogged pores on your forehead.
Living in the UAE or KSA? AC can dehydrate your skin indoors—use a humidifier at night or extra hydrating masks weekly.
Makeup lover? Opt for non-comedogenic, matte finish makeup and set it with powder or setting spray designed for humid weather.
Final Thoughts: Don't Let the Heat Beat Your Skin
Hot and humid weather might be brutal, but with the right skincare routine, you can still glow without the grease. Swap your products, simplify your steps, and stay consistent—even when you're melting.
Because glowing skin isn't seasonal—it's a lifestyle.