Ah, springtime in Charleston! The azaleas are in bloom, the weather is warm and the sun is shining brightly. But while you’re decluttering closets and deep cleaning your home, don’t forget that your skincare routine could use a little spring cleaning, too.

At Charleston Dermatology, we often see an uptick in acne flare-ups this time of year. Why? Blame it on the Lowcountry trifecta: humidity, pollen, and sweat. This spring, refresh your skincare routine and keep your skin looking its best throughout this season.

Switch to a Lighter Moisturizer

Winter weather calls for heavy creams to combat drier skin, but spring humidity changes the narrative. As temps and dew points rise, rich moisturizers can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. This spring, look for a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Gel-based options are great for hydrating without that heavy feeling.

Step Up Your Cleanser Game

With pollen clouds and sweat making a daily appearance, your skin needs extra help staying clean. Swap your gentle winter cleanser for one that includes salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help keep pores clear. Just be careful not to overdo it—cleansing twice a day is plenty.

Don’t Skip the SPF

SPF is your BFF – especially in Charleston’s sunny spring – but some sunscreens can contribute to acne. Choose a broad-spectrum, oil-free sunscreen labeled “non-comedogenic.” Mineral formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide tend to be gentler on acne-prone skin.

Refresh Your Makeup

Old makeup can harbor bacteria, and as your skin gets oilier in spring, dirty brushes and expired products can spell trouble. Toss anything older than 6–12 months, especially liquids and creams. Clean your brushes weekly, and consider switching to lighter, breathable formulas like mineral powder.

Clean Your Pillowcases & Hats More Often

We’re sweating more, we’re outdoors more, and our skin is exposed to more pollen—these can all stick around on fabric and end up on your face. Wash pillowcases 2–3 times a week and hats after every few wears. It’s an easy fix that can seriously help your skin.

Practice Gentle Exfoliation

Exfoliation is key to clearing away dead skin cells and preventing clogged pores, especially as sweat and sunscreen build up. Use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week. Avoid harsh scrubs – opt for products with alpha-hydroxy acids or beta-hydroxy acids (AHAs or BHAs), or try a gentle enzyme exfoliant if you’re sensitive.

Get a Skin Evaluation

If you are struggling with acne or irritation, it’s time for a professional evaluation. Come in for a skin evaluation so we can help spring clean your skin routine, or try a teledermatology appointment with us if you prefer to stay home. Acne isn’t one-size-fits-all and neither is treatment. Our team at Charleston Dermatology is here to help you find a plan that works for your unique skin.

Contact us today at 843-872-3015 to book a consultation and step into spring with your best skin yet.