Climate Control for Healthy Skin

The elements can have a big impact on the way your skin looks and feels. Weatherproof your complexion with these tips.

In desert, dry conditions

Skin zappers: Hot temperatures suck water out of skin’s outermost layer, and air conditioning exacerbates the problem.

Avoid: Harsh, drying soaps, especially oil-in-water emulsions, as they evaporate easily and dehydrate skin’s surface.

Embrace: Oatmeal scrubs, which gently smooth away rough patches, and coconut oil to treat dry, itchy skin.

When it’s tropical and humid

Skin zappers: A temperate climate means more time spent outdoors, increasing the risk of sunburn and sun damage. Lots of humidity also leads to excess sweat, which can be problematic for acne-prone skin.

Avoid: Cream-based and wipe-off cleansers, which are too heavy.

Embrace: Salicylic acid-based cleansers, which prevent bacteria buildup; a moisturizer containing a humectant such as glycerin, which draws water from the atmosphere to benefit skin; a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

At high altitudes

Skin zappers: Dry, cold air causes skin cells to get less oxygen, resulting in problems such as red spots, broken capillaries and rough textures.

Avoid: Very hot showers and baths, which damage skin’s outer layer, and fragranced beauty products, which can aggravate existing skin conditions.

Embrace: Almond oil to replenish moisture on damp skin after a shower and richer, heavier moisturizers that are fragrance and dye-free.