Calming Summer-Stressed Skin

The summer season is not the time for clients to coast with their skin care. Summer is the second highest season after winter for skin conditions requiring clinical visits.1 Yet, many skin professionals and spa owners note a summer lull when clients are away on vacation and visiting the spa more infrequently, relying on hair removal services such as waxing to sustain their business. With proper education and awareness, this does not need to be the only option.

Skin problems tend to increase in the summer due to higher temperatures and humidity, stronger ultraviolet radiation, and heat-related conditions factors which can contribute to excessive sun exposure, hormonal changes, inflammation, excess sweat and sebum production, and post-inflammatory responses.2 These, in turn, can cause everything from dryness, dehydration, acne, and hyperpigmentation to skin cancer.
Educating oneself on the factors that can affect skin health and appearance, as well as the proper ingredients and treatments to calm summer-stressed skin, can not only help clients during the summer months but also increase skin professionals business through innovative services that help clients skin stay resilient, healthy, and youthful throughout the year.

THE SUMMER EFFECT
Ultraviolet Light
As the largest organ of the body, direct exposure of skin to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation can result in sunburn, inflammation, photo-immunosuppression, photoaging, and skin cancers3. Each year, nearly 5.4 million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer, with more than 90% of cases attributed to excessive ultraviolet exposure. Ultraviolet rays can damage DNA and cause oxidative stress and inflammation in skin cells leading to redness, pain, and blistering, commonly known as sunburn.4
The suns ultraviolet rays are more intense in hot weather, increasing the risk of long-term skin damage. Ultraviolet exposure can break down collagen, accelerate aging, and increase skin cancer risk. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, five or more sunburns doubles the risk of developing melanoma.
Over 33,000 sunburns are reported annually that require emergency room visits. In a study of heat-related injuries, sunburns represented 55.4% of all cases.5 In a new study, researchers discovered how prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light can trigger inflammation in skin cells through degradation of a key protein called YTHDF2.6 This protein acts as a gatekeeper in preventing normal skin cells from becoming cancerous. The finding can lead to developing potential new approaches to skin cancer prevention and treatment.
Ultraviolet radiation contributes up to 80% of extrinsic damage to skin. Up to 90% of visible skin changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by the sun. Likewise, free radical or reactive oxygen species (ROS) development is ultraviolet-induced, compounding pollutant damage and causing extreme oxidative stress on skin.7
Absorption of ultraviolet and visible light occurs due to melanin granules in the epidermal cells. Research shows that production of collagen in keratinocytes decreased in ultraviolet-radiated skin. This type of collagen is key to maintaining the structure of skin at the dermal-epidermal area. A decrease in this production is said to contribute to wrinkles.

Inflammation
High temperatures cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased redness and swelling. This is especially problematic for individuals with rosacea or sensitive skin. Heat can also trigger histamine release, exacerbating inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and hives.8 Common summer issues include heat rash (miliaria), which is caused by trapped sweat.
People with rosacea often experience increased flushing and sensitivity during hot weather. Heat dilates blood vessels, causing redness and discomfort. The National Rosacea Society recommends avoiding extreme temperatures and using cooling skin care products to manage symptoms.

Hyperpigmentation
Skins inflammatory response may be seen initially as erythema (redness of skin), which results from dilation of blood vessels in the dermis as a response to the cell damage and repair process. Erythema is an indication of damage to skin inflicted by the sun. Following erythema or sunburn, skin responds by proliferating cell production and producing melanin, which can immediately give the appearance of a tan.
Stimulated by DNA damage induced by ultraviolet B rays from the sun attacking the keratinocyte of skin, the keratinocyte then signals the melanocyte to initiate the production of melanin. Once the melanocyte receptors are attacked, it triggers tyrosinase, endothelium (ET-1), and alpha melanin-stimulating hormone to produce melanin. Melanosomes carry melanocytes to the keratinocyte, where they gather to deposit melanin.
While ultraviolet rays are the primary cause of hyperpigmentation, heat alone can also trigger melasma by stimulating melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in skin. A study found that heat exposure, independent of ultraviolet light, can exacerbate dark spots.9

Acne
Hot weather increases sebum and sweat production. When sweat mixes with bacteria and oils on skin, it can lead to obstruction of the pores, cascading into a compacted pustule or cyst.10 In studies, 40.4% of patients reported an increase in acne severity during summer months.11 In another study, 80.62% of patients noticed a summer aggravation due to sweating and increased humidity.12 The latest findings are also looking at high humidity as contributors to skin infections and acne.13
Higher humidity reduces the human bodys ability to cool itself through sweat evaporation, aggravating heat strain and increasing the risk of adverse health outcomes. This has led to the study of the concept of moist heat stress.
Heat stress occurs when environmental conditions overwhelm the bodys cooling mechanisms, potentially leading to hyperthermia associated with a rapid increase in core body temperatures and degraded work capacity. A sustained increase of internal temperatures can lead to heat stroke and death.14

Dry, Dehydrated, & Compromised
The epidermal barrier is a collection of specific diverse functions, many of which occur primarily within the stratum corneum. These include maintenance of water content and balance (permeability barrier), prevention and responses to invasion by microbial organisms and antigens (antimicrobial barrier and immune response barrier), reduction of the effects of ultraviolet light exposure (photoprotection barrier), and mitigation of the effects of oxidative stresses (antioxidant barrier). Although increased sweating and sebum production may seem to make skin moist, it accelerates transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and decreases skin pH.15 This can lead to dehydrated skin and a compromised skin barrier.

UNSUNG HEROES
Seaweed
Hydration is essential to skin and maintenance of the skin barrier. Water consumption has been linked to improvement of skin dryness. It is hypothesized that electrolytes help conduct electricity when mixed with water, enabling cells to regulate pH levels to optimize the bodys hydration and help skin hold on to moisture.17
Research has found that seaweeds, such as Laminaria digitata, contain high levels of electrolytes such as sodium, magnesium, potassium, and iodine. Magnesium, in particular, has shown to be beneficial for overall cell function.18 Moreover, magnesium helps with transmembrane transport for other ions and is known to help reduce stress and cortisol levels, stabilizing hormonal imbalances and thereby helping reduce the appearance of acne.19 Electrolyte minerals work well with other skin care ingredients, including alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs) and retinol, and can boost the efficiency of these ingredients.
When looking for seaweed in skin care, be sure that the seaweed has been sustainably harvested and processed in such a way that the seaweed extract retains the full activity of the vitamins, minerals, and trace elements.
Seaweed, such as Laminaria digitata, contains 42 trace elements and minerals, 12 vitamins, and 18 amino acids and is also one of the richest sources of natural antioxidants, such as phlorotannins, sulfated polysaccharides, fucosterol, and fucoxanthins. Phlorotannins have anti-oxidant properties, scavenge free radicals, are anti-inflammatory, have chelating activity, and protect against oxidative stress in cells.
Professional treatments that include alginate masks are key to transforming sagging skin. Testing of penetration enhancers concluded that delivery of actives was increased in microemulsion alginate hydrogels compared to a comparison standard.20 Spirulina plantensis, another kind of sea algae, is a powerful antioxidant blue-green algae rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to help strengthen, tone, and protect skin from environmental stress.

Peptides
Peptides are small molecules consisting of at least two amino acids linked together. They influence the way skin ages, such as stimulating an increased production of collagen and elastin. Peptides have different mechanisms of action: For example, palmitoyl pentapeptides help skin appear firmer, and enzyme-inhibitor peptides signal cells to produce less of the collagen-degrading enzymes. There are also peptides that function as carrier peptides to help transfer information.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide is known to have numerous proven benefits, including helping improve the overall appearance and texture of skin, evening the appearance of skin complexion, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as dark spots and discoloration, and improving the appearance of firmness and elasticity.

Sodium Hyaluronate & Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural moisturizing polysaccharide prevalently found in skin that is known to hold 1,000 times its weight in water. In the body, hyaluronic acid is known to help keep skin moisturized, repair skin tissue, transport nutrients in the blood to skin cells, serve as a cushion to lubricate and protect against damage, and contribute to the resilience and suppleness of skin.
In skin care, benefits include intense skin hydration, helping skin appear more plumped, and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles. A major component of the extracellular matrix is hyaluronic acid, which is produced mainly by fibroblasts and keratinocytes in skin and may play an important role in epidermal barrier function and stratum corneum hydration. Polysaccharides are regarded as moisture-controlling substances, which is why they are included in hydrating formulas.

SUMMER SKIN SOLUTIONS
The first step to helping clients maintain healthy, strong, vibrant skin in the summer is to educate them on the benefits of staying hydrated and protected. Advise them to drink plenty of water to keep skin healthy and hydrated. Recommend a full-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 to wear throughout the summer and advise them to limit sun exposure. Encourage clients to always shower after exposure to heat and ultraviolet light in order to cool down and remove excess sweat and sebum. Be sure to recommend a lightweight but potent skin care regimen that helps maintain the skin barrier with moisturizing ingredients that are non-comedogenic. All skin types can benefit from an alginate-based seaweed mask in summer, using pure seaweed extracts to cool and soothe skin while restoring hydration.

Cryo Facials
Studies have found that cryotherapy helps increase the supply of oxygen to cells and other nutrients, which will likely also improve the appearance of skin. Furthermore, the stimulation of microcirculation helps support the penetration of cosmetic preparations.21
These facials incorporate ingredients like menthyl lactate, a gentle cooling agent that provides a refreshing, soothing sensation to help calm overheated skin. Look for facials that include high-performance peptides with seaweeds such as Laminaria digitata and Ulva lactuca that are delivered in layered applications, as well as an alginate gel mask to lift, firm, and renew. This should be followed by a mineral mask that delivers a mineral rich boost to help purify, brighten, and energize skin.

Balancing Facials for Combination Skin
Combination skins unique set of concerns, which include presenting oily, dry, and dehydrated at the same time as well as moisture barrier and pH disruption, has been difficult to treat in the past. Utilize a facial that contains seaweeds combined with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, botanical extracts, almond, oatmeal, and clays to target areas prone to excess oil while maintaining skins essential moisture balance.
The Right Facial for Every Client
When selecting targeted facial treatments, match key ingredients to the clients skin concerns. For hyperpigmentation and dullness, seek out arbutin, diglucosyl gallic acid, and seaweed extracts to rejuvenate and even tone. Sensitive skin benefits from calming ingredients like quercetin, rutin, silver, and Mirabalis jalapa extracts. Acne-prone and oily skin responds well to salicylic and kojic acids, willow bark, and hyaluronic acid for deep pore cleansing without compromising moisture. For dry or compromised skin, look for hexapeptide, hyaluronic acid, mastic oil, and seaweed extracts to replenish and seal in moisture. For time-pressed clients, express sheet mask versions of these treatments make excellent upgrades to services like waxing or nail care.

THINK BEYOND THE SPA
Take facial treatments outside of the spa in the summer. Partner with other skin care providers to create special events or collaborations to perform express facials at beaches, pools, gyms, or wellness events such as outdoor yoga and meditation gatherings.
Educate clients on the important benefits of continuing their professional skin care treatments in the spa or at special events during the summer and recommend at-home programs that will help them maintain their skin through vacation time into the busy fall season. Clients will see the difference and businesses will see profits soar.

References
1. Khodaei, B., Seyedpour, S., Gholami, B., Garmarudi, G., & Nasimi, M. (2021). Seasonal and gender variation in skin disease: A cross-sectional study of 3120 patients at Razi Hospital._International Journal of Womens Dermatology,_7(5), 799802. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2021.09.014_
2. Mohammad Syed, S. (2024). Uncovering the impact of age and season on various types of skin and associated skin issues: A survey analysis._JOJ Dermatology & Cosmetics,_5(5). https://doi.org/10.19080/jojdc.2024.05.555674_
3. Tang, X., Yang, T., Yu, D., Xiong, H., & Zhang, S. (2024). Current insights and future perspectives of ultraviolet radiation (UV) exposure: Friends and foes to the skin and beyond the skin._Environment International,_185, 108535. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2024.108535_
4. How controlling sunburn-triggered inflammation may prevent skin cancer. (n.d.). https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-11-sunburn-triggered-inflammation-skin-cancer.html_
5. Sunburn. Cancer Trends Progress Report. (n.d.). https://progressreport.cancer.gov/prevention/sun/sunburn_
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7. Flament, F., Bazin, R., Rubert, Simonpietri, Piot, B., & Laquieze. (2013a). Effect of the sun on visible clinical signs of aging in Caucasian skin._Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 221. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s44686_
8. Flament, F., Bazin, R., Rubert, Simonpietri, Piot, B., & Laquieze. (2013a). Effect of the sun on visible clinical signs of aging in Caucasian skin._Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 221. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s44686_
9. Zhang, L., Zeng, H., Jiang, L., Fu, C., Zhang, Y., Hu, Y., Zhang, X., Zhu, L., Zhang, F., Huang, J., Chen, J., & Zeng, Q. (2023). Heat promotes melanogenesis by increasing the paracrine effects in keratinocytes via the TRPV3/Ca2+/Hh Signaling Pathway._iScience,_26(5), 106749. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2023.106749_
10. 12 summer skin problems you can prevent. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/prevent-summer-skin-problems_
11. Narang, I., Sardana, K., Bajpai, R., & Garg, V. K. (2018). Seasonal aggravation of acne in summers and the effect of temperature and humidity in a study in a tropical setting._Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology,_18(4), 10981104. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12777_
12. Sardana, K., Sharma, R. C., & Sarkar, R. (2002). Seasonal variation in acne vulgarismyth or Reality._The Journal of Dermatology,_29(8), 484488. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1346-8138.2002.tb00313.x_
13. Baldwin, J. W., Benmarhnia, T., Ebi, K. L., Jay, O., Lutsko, N. J., & Vanos, J. K. (2023). Humiditys role in heat-related health outcomes: A heated debate._Environmental Health Perspectives,_131(5). https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp11807_
14. Buzan, J. R., & Huber, M. (2020). Moist heat stress on a hotter earth._Annual Review of Earth and Planetary Sciences,_48(1), 623655. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-earth-053018-060100_
15. Kim, S., Park, J. W., Yeon, Y., Han, J. Y., & Kim, E. (2019). Influence of exposure to summer environments on skin properties._Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology,_33(11), 21922196. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15745_
16. Xiao, X., Qiao, L., Ye, R., & Zuo, F. (2020). Nationwide survey and identification of potential stress factor in sensitive skin of Chinese women

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17. MediLexicon International. (n.d.)._Electrolytes: Functions, imbalance, and sources. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/153188#electrolyte-imbalance_
18. Al Alawi, A. M., Majoni, S. W., & Falhammar, H. (2018). Magnesium and human health: Perspectives and Research Directions._International Journal of Endocrinology,_2018, 117. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/9041694_
19. Gupta, A. (2020, December 3)._8 supplements that could help you get rid of persistent acne. Vogue India. https://www.vogue.in/wellness/content/best-supplements-to-rid-of-acne-pimples#:~:text=To%20control%20hormonal%20acne%2C%20dermatologist,hormonal%20imbalances%20in%20the%20body_
20. Singh, N., Singh, C., Khare, S., Patel, P., Akram, W., Joshi, R., & Kurmi, B. D. (2026). Microemulsion loaded hydrogel as an advanced approach for topical delivery of drug: A brief review._Current Pharmaceutical Design,_32(15), 11331140. https://doi.org/10.2174/0113816128379742250720131311_
21. Dzidek, A., & Piotrowska, A. (2022). The use of cryotherapy in cosmetology and the influence of cryogenic temperatures on selected skin parametersa review of the literature._Cosmetics,_9(5), 100. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics9050100_

Lydia Sarfati is an international industry leader with over 46 years of experience as a spa owner, consultant, CIDESCO diploma-holder, and aesthetician. She is the founder and CEO of Repchage, the first company to bring seaweed-based skin care treatments to the United States market, and is the president of CIDESCO Section USA. Named 2023 Most Influential Spa Leader by American Spa Magazine, Sarfati is the author of Success at Your Fingertips: How to Succeed in the Skin Care Business and The Repechage Book of Skincare Science & Protocols. She is also a contributing author to textbooks such as The Milady Standard Esthetics: Fundamentals, Twelfth Edition and Oncology Esthetics.