While a small amount of humidity can go a long way in keeping your skin hydrated and supple, high levels of humidity can cause a number of different challenges. From blocked pores to an oily complexion to tropical acne, here are the best ways to deal with some of these issues.
Blocked Pores
It may feel as though you sweat so much more when you are in a humid climate, but this is not strictly true. Instead, rather than your sweat evaporating, it stays on your skin due to the humidity in the air, which will then lead to blocked pores. When it comes to clearing your pores, there are a number of different ways that you can do this, but a facial mask is usually one of the easiest and most effective. While a cleanser will work to some extent, a facial mask has more time to send its ingredients deep down into your skin, clearing out all of the excess sweat that will have settled in your pores.
Oily Skin
The extra moisture in the air will often stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, which leads to an oily complexion. Products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide help to naturally dry up the excess oil that is being produced, while rebalancing the skin by eradicating any bacteria that the oil may have produced. To ensure that your face stays oil-free throughout the day, apply a mattifying product onto your skin, underneath your moisturizer and sunscreen, as these contain ingredients that help to absorb any excess oil, giving your skin a matte appearance.
Breakouts and Acne
Oily skin and blocked pores can quickly lead to acne, which is an extremely common issue in humid environments. Salicylic acid is an ingredient that will really help with this, and you need to make sure that any products that you are using, including your sunscreen, are oil-free. Keep any makeup to a minimum, and be sure to cleanse your face twice a day, as this will clear away any more bacteria from building up on your skin.
Changes in Temperature
While a humid climate may feel hot and sticky outdoors, it is likely that, indoors, there will be plenty of air conditioning blasting onto your skin, and these sudden changes in temperature can really take their toll. The best way to protect your skin from this is by making sure that it is always moisturized. Moisturizer creates a thin film on the surface of your skin, which protects it from the environment, and will provide it with a certain level of protection when it is experiencing sudden changes in temperature.
Taking care of your skin in a humid climate is definitely challenging, and, if your skin is not used to the humidity, you may experience these issues even more dramatically. If you are planning on visiting a humid destination, it is always best to travel prepared, ensuring that you have oil-free products that contain salicylic acid, as well as a reliable moisturizer and a few deep cleansing facial masks.
