Beat the heat: Your UAE summer skincare guide, what to layer and what to skip in extreme heat

You see the array of serums, moisturisers and toners on your shelf, and you’re just ready to use them. But here’s the thing, it’s summer and while layering is always a good idea, there’s such a concept as seasonal layering. That’s how you can keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to layer your skincare and makeup effectively as the weather changes across the UAE.

It’s straightforward, and no rocket science required.  In the UAE summer, temperatures can hit 45°C with high humidity, making heavy products a no-go. Instead, your routine should focus on hydration without weight, and strong sun protection.”

So, how do you go about it?

Cleanse gently

Tone without alcohol

Apply a hydrating toner or essence with calming ingredients like rose water or aloe vera. Skip alcohol-based toners that strip your skin.

Lightweight hydrating serum

This is where layering begins to make a difference. Use serums that hydrate and protect without clogging pores.

Top choices include:

Oil-free moisturiser

Even in humidity, your skin needs moisture. Choose a lightweight, gel-based formula that hydrates without suffocating your skin.

Look for ingredients like glycerin, squalane or panthenol.

Sunscreen

This step is non-negotiable. A broad-spectrum SPF 50+ in a fluid or gel texture is ideal for hot climates.

Evening skincare layering steps

Double cleanse

Start with an oil-based cleanser to melt away sunscreen and makeup, followed by your regular gel cleanser.

Hydrating toner or essence

This helps rebalance skin after cleansing and preps it for treatments.

Repair serum

·         Use antioxidant-rich or calming serums to support overnight skin recovery.

·         Look for peptides, resveratrol, niacinamide or green tea.

Light moisturiser or gel cream

Skip rich night creams during peak summer. A breathable gel or lotion is enough to repair skin without clogging pores.

Summer makeup layering tips

·         Switch to tinted moisturisers or BB creams with SPF instead of foundation.

·         Use an oil-free primer to reduce shine and help your makeup last.

·         Set only the T-zone with translucent powder to avoid cakey buildup.

·         Finish with a hydrating setting spray to seal everything in.

Why layering matters in the UAE

Singh points out that the UAE’s climate is especially taxing on skin. “You deal with extreme UV exposure, constant air conditioning and sudden shifts from hot outdoor temperatures to cool interiors. Your skin needs protection, hydration and repair, often in the same day.”