Combatting Dry Skin in Summer - Tips and Tricks

Summer is here, and while we enjoy the warmth of the sun, the heat and dry air can wreak havoc on our skin, leaving it dry and irritated. Dry skin is more common than you might think, but understanding its causes and learning how to manage it can make all the difference.

Why is my skin dry in summer?

Skin often gets drier in summer because of UV exposure, air conditioning, chlorine or salt water from swimming, sweat, and more frequent washing — all of which strip moisture and damage the skin barrier faster than usual, even though the weather feels warm rather than cold and dry.

Why does your skin become dry?

Our skin serves as a protective barrier against harmful external factors while locking in essential nutrients and fluids. However, when this balance is disrupted, the skin loses moisture, leading to dryness. You might hear terms like "Xerosis" or   "Asteatosis" (lack of natural oils) associated with dry skin, often referenced in moisturiser products.

Dry skin vs dehydrated skin

These two get mixed up, but they’re not the same: dry skin lacks oil (sebum), while dehydrated skin lacks water — and in summer, heat, sweat and sun can leave skin both oily and dehydrated at once, or dry and flaky, depending on your skin type. Either way, a lightweight, hydrating moisturiser helps restore balance.

What disrupts the skin’s barrier?

Environmental factors

  • Exposure to extreme temperatures (hot or cold).
  • Low humidity and windy conditions.
  • Excessive air conditioning or central heating.
  • Frequent bathing or long, hot showers.
  • Use of harsh soaps, detergents, or alcohol-based products.
  • Sun and UV exposure.
  • Chlorine or salt water from swimming.

Hormonal & medical conditions

Genetic factors

  • Hereditary conditions linked to dry skin.

Why does dry skin make us itch?

Dry skin triggers the release of proteins in the skin, which intensify the urge to scratch. This creates a cycle where itching leads to more irritation. Breaking this cycle is key to managing dry skin.

Moisturisers: Your skin’s best friend

Moisturisers, also known as emollients, are essential for managing dry skin. They:

  • Soothe itchiness.
  • Strengthen the skin's protective barrier.
  • Reduce the risk of infections by preventing bacteria from entering the skin.
  • Lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated.

Which moisturisers is best for you?

The best moisturiser is the one that works for you. Popular choices include Cetraben, Epaderm, and Aveeno.

  • Creams: Lightweight and suitable for daytime use.
  • Ointments: Thicker and form a barrier, ideal for nighttime hydration.
  • Lotions: Generally not recommended as they may contain alcohol, which can dry the skin further.

How to use moisturisers effectively:

  • Apply generously to damp skin after bathing to trap moisture.
  • Replace soap with a gentle emollient cleanser.
  • Use a spatula or spoon for creams in tubs to avoid contamination.
  • Keep moisturisers in a fridge for a cooling effect.
  • Carry small amounts in travel containers for use on the go.

How to hydrate your skin in summer

A simple summer routine helps: cleanse gently, apply a lightweight or gel moisturiser to damp skin, and finish with a daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Rinse off chlorine or salt water as soon as you can after swimming, since both dry the skin out quickly. Look out for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and squalane, which help draw in and lock down moisture without feeling heavy.

Additional tips for managing dry skin:

1. Limit showers and baths

  • Keep baths and showers under 10 minutes.
  • Close the door to increase humidity while bathing.

2. Choose gentle products

  • Opt for non-biological, hypoallergenic washing detergents.
  • Avoid harsh soaps and use mild cleansers instead.

3. Be gentle on your skin

  • Pat skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.
  • Wear clothing made from non-irritating fabrics like cotton or silk.

4. Humidify your environment

  • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
  • Avoid sitting directly next to fires or radiators.

5. Protect your skin

  • Wear gloves during winter to shield hands from the cold.
  • In summer, protect your skin with a daily broad-spectrum SPF and by rinsing off sweat, chlorine or salt water as soon as possible.

Symptoms of dry skin

Tightness, flaking, itching and cracking are the main signs of dry or dehydrated skin. Mild cases usually settle with the steps above, but if your skin stays cracked, sore or intensely itchy, that’s a sign it’s worth getting checked rather than just moisturising through it.

When to Seek Help

If your dry skin persists despite following these tips, it might be time to seek professional advice. Our GPs and Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) are available to provide personalised support and recommend the best treatment options.

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Frequently asked questions

Common questions about dry skin in summer, answered.

Even in warm weather, sun exposure, air conditioning, chlorine or salt water, sweat and more frequent washing all strip moisture from the skin, so dryness can happen just as easily in summer as in winter — it just has different triggers. 

Low levels of vitamin D, vitamin A or zinc are the usual suspects behind persistently dry skin. If your skin stays dry despite moisturising well, it’s worth getting tested rather than assuming it’s a deficiency and self-treating. 

Yes — given the chance, the skin barrier repairs itself naturally. Gentle cleansing, regular moisturising and cutting back on harsh soaps or long hot showers all support that recovery. If it doesn’t improve after a couple of weeks, see a GP to rule out an underlying cause. 

Yes — Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is an effective occlusive that seals moisture into the skin, so it works well applied to damp skin after bathing. It doesn’t add hydration on its own, though, so it works best layered over a moisturiser rather than used alone.