During the hot summer months, our skin’s oil production increases making our skin even oilier than during the colder months. The following are some tips for taking care of oily skin during the summer:

Wash your face twice a day - once in the morning and once at night. While you may be tempted to wash more often, just to get rid of the oil, this is actually counterproductive. Washing more often can stimulate the oil glands and produce more oil. Scrubbing also stimulates the oil glands, so instead of scrubbing, gently apply cleansers. If you must use something in between washing, use oil-blotters to absorb some of the oil.

Exfoliate your skin once a week to remove dead skin cells and temporarily decrease oil production.

Use a cleanser with salicylic acid at night. This helps to remove dead skin cells and break down oil in the pores. If you notice drying after using this type of cleanser, cut back to every other day or a couple times per week.

Skip the liquid foundation. When it is hot, foundation tends to thin and melt into your pores, clogging them and causing an increase in oil production. Instead, use a mineral powder foundation or a tinted (water based) moisturizer. Use blotting paper to apply powder foundations.

Eat right. Add foods high in Vitamin A (carrots, cantaloupe, spinach) that slow oil production. Limit alcoholic consumption and spicy foods (these can dilate blood vessels and increase oil production.)

Switch to lighter, oil-free moisturizers. During the winter months, heavier moisturizers and creams were needed to replenish your skin. During the summer months, you should use lighter lotions that specifically say “oil-free.” For double protection, make sure your moisturizer contains sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Pull back your hair and avoid touching your face with your hands. Your hands and hair both produce a lot of oil. Every time you touch your face, you transfer oil from your hands to your face. Having your hair hanging down also transfers oil to your face.

Avoid being out in the sun for extended periods between 10:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. Not only does being in the sun expose you to harmful UV rays, it can increase oil production. I

Be sure to use sunscreen every time you are outside. Experts recommend about a teaspoon of sunscreen for your face alone. Be sure your sunscreen has an SPF of at least 30. Some sunscreens offer oil protection as well, look for ones containing micronized zinc, titanium dioxide or denatured alcohol.