Season Change: Getting to Know Your Skin Through 3 Seasons
Many people may wonder what type of skin they have. In summer, the skin is oily; in the rainy season, the skin feels sticky;
and in winter, it becomes dry and flaky. Actually, we can have good skin throughout all three seasons, but we need to understand the weather conditions and our own skin condition. Dr. Suthasinee Tansuriyawong, Head of Dermatology and Aesthetic Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital has the answers.
How Each Season Affects Our Skin
Each season affects the skin differently, so we need to understand and be aware of potential problems.
- Summer The hot weather causes constant sweating. This sweat can irritate our skin, causing allergic reactions or sweat rashes, making pimples and rashes more likely than in other seasons. Additionally, the most harmful factor is the intense sunlight that damages our skin, causing more sun tanning than in other seasons. UV rays can cause melasma and definitely harm our skin. The most dangerous thing to watch out for is skin cancer.
- Rainy Season The humidity is high. When humidity rises, the body stimulates more oil production, leading to clogged pores and enlarged pores, causing more acne. Just as summer has sunlight, the rainy season has rain mixed with impurities, including dust particles in the air, pollution, and various chemicals that come into contact with our skin. Even if we don’t get wet directly, droplets can hit the skin causing inflammation or weakening the skin.
- Winter The weather is dry, and humidity is low, causing our skin to lose moisture, leading to dryness, cracking, and itching. If we scratch or touch the skin, wounds may form. For skincare lovers, the biggest concern is wrinkles due to decreased skin moisture.
Secret Tips for Skincare in Each Season
- Summer Avoid factors that increase skin heat, such as steam rooms or saunas. Sunscreen is very important, as is using an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun. Because summer causes a lot of sweating, skincare lovers should drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids, at least 8-10 glasses a day. Importantly, avoid alcohol because it increases body heat.
- Rainy Season Avoid dampness. If you get wet in the rain, dry yourself quickly. Take care of facial and body cleanliness. Avoid heavy makeup because the rainy season increases the chance of clogged pores.
- Winter The key is to apply a moisturizer suitable for your skin type. Avoid bathing in overly hot water as it dries out the skin, causing itching or allergic reactions.
Do You Need to Buy Skincare for Every Season?
Summer and rainy season skincare can often be the same, but when winter comes, it’s necessary to have another set to prepare and restore the skin for the drier winter season. Some people may need to adjust from oily skin formulas to combination or dry skin products, or use products containing oils to increase skin moisture.
In Thailand, many may wonder if there really is a winter season. It covers both the cold season in our country and for those traveling abroad to very cold climates, skin preparation is necessary to cope with cold weather. Also, for those living or sleeping in very cold air-conditioned rooms, listen carefully: the cold air in air conditioning can cause your skin to become much drier.
How to Have Good, Strong Skin Ready for Every Season
The real way to have good skin starts from within, which everyone knows but still struggles to do. Today, here are some good tips that benefit both skin health and overall health.
- Nutrition Vitamins and minerals help the skin and are found in a balanced diet with all five food groups. Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
- Use the right skincare according to your skin type and the season. Sunscreen should be applied daily.
- Get enough sleep, at least 8 hours.
- Reduce stress.
- Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake, and avoid smoking.
Recommendations for those who want good skin that can withstand sun, rain, and cold in all weather conditions
The most important thing to care for in every season is cleanliness. The basic three essentials everyone must have are:
- A good facial cleanser that does not harm the skin, suits your skin type, thoroughly removes dirt, and is gentle on your skin.
- Protect the skin which means sunscreen.
- Moisturizer that provides skin hydration.
