Summer in South Carolina brings heat, humidity, and more time outdoors, but it also brings a whole new set of challenges for your skin. Excess oil, clogged pores, and sweat-related breakouts can leave your skin feeling anything but refreshed. At Columbia Skin Clinic, we’re here to help you stay clear, balanced, and glowing all summer long with expert skincare guidance and dermatologist-approved products.
Start With a Clean Slate: Cleanse Properly
A good cleanser is the foundation of every summer skincare routine. Cleansing twice a day, especially after sweating or working out, helps remove dirt, oil, and sunscreen that can clog pores.
Recommended Products:
ZO Exfoliating Cleanser – Gently removes surface oils and impurities.
Topix Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Wash – Targets acne-causing bacteria and reduces breakouts.
Gly-Sal 5/2 Acne Cleanser – A powerful combination of glycolic and salicylic acid to deep clean pores and exfoliate dead skin cells.
Exfoliate (But Don’t Overdo It)
Exfoliation helps clear away dead skin and prevent clogged pores, but too much can damage your skin barrier, especially in the summer. Stick to 2–3 times a week and follow with hydration.
Recommended Products:
ZO Exfoliating Polish – Buffs away dull skin for a smoother texture.
Topix Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser – A mild yet effective option for oily and acne-prone skin.
Use Targeted Serums
Serums packed with antioxidants or oil-controlling ingredients help protect skin from environmental stress and regulate oil production. Vitamin C, in particular, is a summer must-have to prevent oxidative damage.
Recommended Products:
SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF – Ideal for oily, acne-prone skin.
Obagi Professional-C Serum 10% – Lightweight and brightening with vitamin C.
SkinCeuticals P-TIOX – A peptide-rich formula to smooth and strengthen.
Topix Replenix Power of Three Cream – Antioxidant protection for sensitive, reactive skin.
Balance & Hydrate
Don’t be fooled into skipping moisturizer—hydration is essential, even for oily skin. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that support your skin barrier without clogging pores.
Recommended Products:
Replenix Pure Hydration Hyaluronic Acid Serum – Boosts hydration without heaviness.
ZO Recovery Crème – Nourishing, barrier-supporting hydration.
Glycolix Ultra Lite Face Cream – Lightweight and calming.
Glycolix Elite Fortified Moisturizer – Great for dry areas that still need support in the summer.
Incorporate Retinol Wisely
Retinol can help manage acne and oil, but it also increases sensitivity to the sun. Use it at night, and be extra diligent with SPF during the day.
Recommended Products:
ZO Retinol Skin Brightener 0.5% or 1% – Brightens and targets discoloration.
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 – A gentle entry-level retinol perfect for beginners.
Don’t Forget Your SPF
The single most important step in summer skincare? Sunscreen. Sun damage increases oil production and worsens hyperpigmentation. Daily SPF use is essential, especially when using retinol or exfoliants.
Recommended Products:
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (Clear & Tinted) – Lightweight and designed for acne-prone skin.
EltaMD UV Facial Broad-Spectrum SPF 35 – Hydrating and perfect for sensitive skin.
ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+ – Offers DNA repair enzymes and excellent sun protection.
Topix Mineral Tinted SPF 50 – A tinted formula for extra protection and glow.
Book a Visit With Our Experts
Your summer skincare shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. Columbia Skin Clinic’s board-certified dermatologists and specialists are here to help you build a plan that works for your skin, whether you’re managing breakouts, improving tone and texture, or protecting against UV damage.
Stop by one of our Midlands locations to shop these medical-grade products, or schedule a consultation to get personalized recommendations. Let’s make this your clearest, healthiest summer yet!
