How to Protect and Nourish Your Skin When the Temps Won't Quit


Summertime skincare hits different when your skin is rich in melanin. With rising temps and longer days, ethnic beauties need tailored routines to stay clear, hydrated, and glowing. Here’s what your skin really needs when the heat turns up.

Let’s Talk Skin. More Specifically—Your Skin in This Heat.

If it feels like summer is hotter than it used to be ...you’re not imagining it. With global temperatures steadily rising, our skin is facing new challenges. And for those of us with melanin-rich skin, warm weather comes with its own unique concerns: oiliness, dehydration, dark spots, clogged pores, and sensitivity.

But don’t worry—summer doesn’t have to mean dull or damaged skin. In fact, when you know how to care for it properly, this season can be when your glow shines the brightest.

1. Cleanse with Care (Not Aggression)

Sweat, SPF, and pollution can do a number on your pores. But over-cleansing (or using harsh soaps) can strip your skin and trigger even more oil.
Stick to gentle cleansers—look for ones with aloe, green tea, or honey. Cleanse twice a day, and resist the urge to scrub your face every time you feel sticky.

2. Hydration > Heavy Creams

Here’s the truth: oily skin still needs hydration. Skip the thick butters and switch to lightweight moisturizers with humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. These help your skin hold water without clogging pores.

Pro tip: Try a refreshing midday mist (rosewater, cucumber hydrosol) to cool and hydrate on the go.

3. Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable

Melanin does offer some sun protection—but not nearly enough. Sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation, cause uneven tone, and accelerate aging.
Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+, ideally with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. And yes, there are melanin-friendly formulas out there that won’t leave a gray cast.
Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors. Your future self will thank you.

4. Exfoliate, But Do It Right

Dead skin, sweat, and sunscreen buildup can dull your natural glow. Gently exfoliate 1–2 times a week. Avoid grainy scrubs and go for chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or mandelic acid—they’re gentler and safer for darker skin tones.

5. Tackle Hyperpigmentation Proactively

Summer sun tends to deepen existing dark spots. Start now with ingredients like:
- Niacinamide (strengthens skin + evens tone)
- Vitamin C (brightens + protects)
- Licorice root extract (natural lightener)
- Azelaic acid (fades marks + calms skin)
Always use these in tandem with sunscreen, or you’ll undo the benefits.

6. Glow Starts on Your Plate

Drink more water than you think you need. Load up on hydrating foods—think watermelon, cucumber, spinach. And don’t forget your omega-3s from flaxseeds or walnuts to reduce inflammation and nourish from the inside out.

7. Skip the Cake (Makeup, That Is)

Heavy foundation and the summer sun are not a cute combo. Go lighter:
- Use a tinted moisturizer with SPF
- Try mineral powder for shine control
- Or let your skin breathe bare
Less is more, especially when your skincare is doing the heavy lifting.

Summing Things Up ...

Melanin beauty, this heat doesn’t have to dull your glow. With just a few thoughtful shifts in your skincare routine, you can meet the season with confidence—and radiance.

Take care of the skin you’re in. It’s not just beautiful, it’s powerful.

That’s it for this week.

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