5 Common Skin Problems in Humid Weather and How to Combat them, as Seen in The Daily Express

From scorching heatwaves to unexpected thunderstorms, the summer climate in the UK has been consistently humid. This persistent humidity can take a toll on the skin, exacerbating a range of common skin issues. That’s why we spoke to Harley Street Doctor and Private GP, Dr Kaywaan Khan at Hannah London Clinic, who shares the 7 common skin problems in humid weather and how to combat them. From combatting dull, congested skin to avoiding allergic reactions, he shares his tips on how to manage and protect your skin to maintain a healthy complexion all summer long.  

1. Dull and Congested Skin 

Humidity can create a sticky environment that traps dirt, oil and bacteria to the skin. When this happens, our pores can become blocked and lead to a dull complexion due to the accumulation of sweat, oil and environmental pollutants. Due to the congestion, this can reduce the skin’s radiance and glow. To combat this, it’s essential to double cleanse- first with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and remove any impurities, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser to wash away any residue. Exfoliate 2-3 times a week with a chemical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and reveal cleaner, brighter skin. After your skincare routine is complete, hydrate the skin with a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser to maintain the skins suppleness and balance oil production. If clogged pores and congested skin has led to blackheads, I would recommend Hydrafacial treatment for extraction. As well as cleansing, exfoliation and hydrating the skin, a Hydrafacial will reduce your pore size and leave the skin looking clearer than ever, giving it a much-needed boost during humid weather.  

2. Acne 

In humidity, sweat production increases and this can lead to a build-up of oils and bacteria on the skins surface. Not only can this clog the pores and lead to further acne breakouts, but increased oil production acts as a wall preventing your skincare products from effectively penetrating the skin. This means that your acne-fighting skincare routine becomes less effective, making it even more challenging to maintain clear, healthy skin. Opt for non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products to avoid clogging the pores further. Additionally, look for products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help kill acne-causing bacteria. If your acne breakouts continue to worsen, book in for a consultation with a qualified skin doctor who can advise you on treatments for acne including chemical peels to brighten the complexion again, microneedling to stimulate collagen, IPL to destroy sebum forming glands or acne medications, alongside a bespoke skincare routine. 

3. Ingrown Hairs 

Due to increased sweat and trapped moisture in humid weather, ingrown hairs can become prevalent. These can look like red, itchy bumps where the hair has grown back into the skin. You’re more likely to get ingrown hairs if you have coarse or curly hair and they can appear more frequently when you shave or wax in areas such as the face, neck, legs, armpits, pubic area, chest and back. To prevent and treat these pesky bumps, it is important to exfoliate the skin regularly with a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells that can clog the hair follicles. If you do suffer with ingrown hairs, resist the urge to pick at it or tweeze the hair out, as this can increase the likelihood of infection. Instead, apply an antiseptic solution after hair removal to prevent the ingrown hair from forming and if it does, apply a warm compress to encourage the hair to surface. If you want to skip this step after waxing or shaving and remove persistent ingrown hairs permanently, I would recommend laser hair removal with the Soprano ICE Platinum system at Hannah London as it is one of the safest and effective on all skin types, unlike other systems.   

4. Heat Rash 

High humidity prevents sweat from evaporating efficiently, which is the body’s natural cooling mechanism. When sweat can’t evaporate, it becomes trapped in the skin, leading to blocked sweat ducts and the development of heat rash. Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, is a common skin irritation that can appear in the form of small red bumps or blisters which are itchy and uncomfortable. Whilst they are typically harmless and go away on their own, they can be bothersome. To help soothe redness and inflammation, take a cool shower and apply a calamine lotion afterwards to reduce itching. Wear loose, breathable cotton fabrics to avoid friction which can cause more inflammation and allow your skin to breathe. When dealing with a heat rash, do not use perfumed products or scratch it as this can cause more itchiness. Instead apply a cold compress to the area for up to 20 minutes to relieve any discomfort. If you are consistently dealing with a stubborn heat rash and over the counter medicine such as antihistamines or calamine lotion has not relieved discomfort, it’s important to book in for a GP consultation where a reputable practitioner can advise you on solutions.  

5. Skin Sensitivity 

While humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air, it doesn’t necessarily mean your skin is getting hydrated. In high humidity, the skin senses a higher moisture level outside than inside. This can trick the skin into thinking it doesn’t need to retain as much moisture, leading to dehydrated skin. When the skin is dehydrated, the protective barrier becomes compromised and less effective at preventing irritants, allergens, and bacteria from penetrating the skin. This can cause increased skin sensitivity, leading to irritation, redness and itching. A soothing moisturiser containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides can help calm down the skin. If your skin is particularly dry and sensitive, consider a skin booster treatment from a reputable aesthetics practitioner which can help nourish the skin cells to reveal healthy, glowing skin. Be regimented with your application of SPF50+ daily, to protect sensitive skin from irritation caused by the sun’s damaging UV rays.  

Want to find out more? Read our press feature in The Daily Express here: https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/1933676/skincare-summer-beauty-tips-exclusive