When it comes to skincare, most of us default to choosing products based on our skin type —dry, oily, sensitive, or combination. But according to Dr Alek Nikolic, a renowned expert in aesthetic medicine and owner of SkinMiles, there’s a missing piece in this puzzle that’s equally important: climate. “Your skin doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s deeply influenced by the environment around you, and adapting your skincare routine to your climate can make a notable difference,” says Dr Nikolic.
South Africa’s diverse climates—from the dry, semi-desert regions to the humid coastal areas—illustrate how varied environmental factors can be. “In hot, humid areas, your skin may turn oily, while in dry, cold regions, it can become parched and sensitive,” Dr Nikolic explains. This means that sticking to a single skincare routine year-round or when travelling might not be the best strategy. Instead, adopting a climate-smart approach could help your skin stay healthy and vibrant, no matter where you are.
Why hydration is key in dry climates
In arid regions, where the air seems to pull moisture from everything it touches, your skin needs all the hydration it can get. Dry climates can lead to dehydration, redness, and even sensitivity due to the lack of moisture in the air. “The best defence against dry climates is a solid offense of hydration,” advises Dr Nikolic. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, olive oil, and ceramides work wonders in attracting and retaining moisture.
For those living in or visiting dry environments, Dr Nikolic recommends layering your skincare. Apply products containing humectants like glycerine or hyaluronic acid to slightly damp skin, then immediately seal in the moisture with a rich moisturiser. Additionally, a humidifier can be a game-changer in dry conditions, adding much-needed moisture to the air around you.
The following products are great for nourishing your skin in dry climates:
CERAVE Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
SKINCEUTICALS Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
Balance is everything in humid climates
Tropical climates present a different challenge: overactive oil glands. Damp conditions combined with higher temperatures can lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and breakouts. In humid climates, lightweight, oil-free moisturisers are your best friends.
Regular exfoliation can help keep your pores clear, while mattifying ingredients and products infused with aloe vera or calendula extract can control shine and prevent congestion. And, of course, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Humid climates may make you feel more protected from the sun, but UV rays can still do damage, so SPF is a must all-year round.
Additionally, Retinol (Vitamin A) is known for its ability to refine skin texture by promoting cell turnover, which can help to reduce the appearance of pores. Its exfoliating properties make it effective in preventing and treating acne by keeping pores clear and reducing the buildup of dead skin cells that can lead to breakouts
These products offer ideal skincare solutions for humid climates:
DR SCHRAMMEK Retinol RT+ Performance Serum
CERAVE Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Travelling between climates?
For those who frequently travel between different climates, adaptability is crucial. “Your skin can struggle to keep up with constant changes in temperature and humidity, so it’s important to be prepared,” advises Dr Nikolic. He recommends a few key steps to protect your skin in transit and upon arrival.
Before a flight, a deep cleanse can help unclog pores, making your skin more receptive to hydration. During the flight, hydration is paramount—both internally and externally. “Drink plenty of water, and avoid dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine,” Dr Nikolic suggests. He also advises keeping makeup to a minimum to let your skin breathe and using a hydrating BB cream or tinted moisturiser if necessary.
Useful tinted moisturisers for travel include:
IMAGE PREVENTION+ daily tinted moisturizer SPF30+
OXYGENETIX Oxygenating Foundation
Once you arrive at your destination, tailor your skincare routine to the local climate. For beach destinations, include SPF and after-sun care, and in dry climates, layer your products to lock in moisture.
Skincare is not a one-size-fits-all routine, especially when you consider the diverse climates we live in or travel to. By adjusting your skincare regimen to your environment, you can maintain healthy, glowing skin all year round. “Don’t just treat your skin type— also treat according to your environment,” Dr Nikolic emphasises. Whether you’re navigating the arid plains or the humid coasts, a climate-smart approach will help you put your best face forward, no matter the weather.
