If I could sum up most of my clients’ at-home skincare challenges, it’s this: they’re not exfoliating effectively. There’s a belief that exfoliants like AHAs or retinol (chemical or enzyme exfoliants) should be paused during summer, but while it’s true you need to use them mindfully, summer is not the time to stop exfoliating.
In fact, heat, humidity, sweat, and sunscreen buildup create the perfect recipe for congestion. When you don’t exfoliate effectively during summer, your skin can quickly become dull, bumpy, and prone to breakouts, making it harder for your products to work and for your skin to truly glow.
And before we dive in, let's clear up another BIG misconception about AHAs which is a type of chemical exfoliant. Chemical does not equal "bad". Everything in this world is a chemical -- even you. AHAs like glycolic, lactic and mandelic acids are derived from ingredients like sugar cane, milk, and almonds.
Why Exfoliation Matters Even More in Summer
During warmer months, your skin produces more sweat and oil to cool itself, while you’re also applying (and reapplying) sunscreen and possibly wearing hats or helmets outdoors. This environment can:
✅ Trap sweat, oil, and environmental debris under layers of dead skin.
✅ Lead to clogged pores, congestion, and breakouts.
✅ Cause rough texture and uneven tone.
✅ Make it harder for your serums and moisturizers to penetrate.
Exfoliating helps by:
✨ Removing dead skin cells so your pores remain clear.
✨ Enhancing the effectiveness of your skincare products.
✨ Promoting smoother, brighter, more even skin tone.
✨ Supporting your skin’s natural renewal process, which helps manage hyperpigmentation from summer sun exposure.
Busting the Myth: Can You Use AHAs and Retinol in Summer?
Many people believe that exfoliating acids (like glycolic, lactic, or mandelic acid) and retinol should be avoided during summer.
The truth? You can absolutely continue using these ingredients year-round if you follow a sun-smart routine.
What science and expert practice actually say:
✅ AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) help loosen dead skin cells, revealing fresher skin underneath and aiding in reducing pigmentation and fine lines. They can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so pairing them with sunscreen is essential.
✅ Retinol (Vitamin A) promotes cell turnover and supports collagen production. While it can increase sun sensitivity, it does not “thin” the skin—in fact, long-term retinol use can help strengthen and smooth the skin’s appearance.
The real key? Timing, frequency, and sun protection.
How to Exfoliate Safely in Summer
1️⃣ Use exfoliating products at night.
Both AHAs and retinol can degrade with sun exposure and increase sensitivity, so nighttime use helps reduce irritation and protects your skin during the day.
2️⃣ Always wear SPF.
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily and reapply every two hours when outdoors. This is essential when using exfoliants, as they can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
3️⃣ Hydrate and support your barrier.
Follow exfoliation with calming, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or niacinamide to maintain skin comfort and resilience.
4️⃣ Be mindful of frequency.
You don’t need to exfoliate every day. Depending on your skin type, 2–4 times per week for chemical exfoliants is often sufficient during summer to prevent over-exfoliation.
How Exfoliation Supports Sun Protection
You may be surprised to learn that consistent, gentle exfoliation can actually help your skin better handle sun exposure:
✅ Removes dead skin cells that can contribute to uneven tanning and hyperpigmentation.
✅ Enhances penetration of antioxidants like Vitamin C, which help protect against UV-induced free radical damage.
✅ Prevents clogged pores, reducing the chance of summer breakouts.
✅ Supports your skin’s natural renewal process, which helps fade sun spots and maintain an even tone.
Research highlights:
- A study in The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology noted that glycolic acid helps improve photoaged skin by enhancing the even distribution of melanin and promoting smoother texture.
- Controlled exfoliation helps reduce the accumulation of UV-damaged cells, supporting healthier skin renewal.
In short, while exfoliation itself doesn’t prevent sunburn, it can help your skin stay healthier, clearer, and better able to handle the stresses of UV exposure when paired with diligent sun protection.
Best Practices for a Summer Exfoliation Routine
✨ Morning:
- Gentle cleanser
- Antioxidant serum (Vitamin C)
- Lightweight moisturizer
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30+
✨ Evening:
- Double cleanse if wearing sunscreen and makeup.
- Apply chemical exfoliant (AHA/BHA) or retinol (alternate nights).
- Follow with hydrating moisturizer.
✨ Weekly:
- Limit exfoliation to 2–4x per week based on your skin’s tolerance.
- Incorporate “barrier support” days with no actives if your skin feels sensitized.
✨ Hydration, hydration, hydration ALL THE TIME
- Use hydrating serums and moisturizers to balance the drying effects of sun and heat.
FAQs About Summer Exfoliation
Q: Will using acids and retinol in summer damage my skin?
Not if you use them correctly and pair them with sunscreen. They can help manage sun damage and pigmentation, but sun protection is essential.
Q: Can I exfoliate more in summer because of sweat and oil?
Not necessarily. The goal is to exfoliate effectively, not excessively. Over-exfoliation can damage your barrier, leading to sensitivity and dehydration.
Q: Should I stop using retinol in summer?
No. Retinol can be used year-round if you are consistent and diligent with sunscreen and use it at night.
Q: Is physical exfoliation okay in summer?
Gentle scrubs can be used, but chemical exfoliants are often better for even exfoliation without risking micro-tears, which can lead to irritation, especially in hot, humid weather.
Final Takeaway
Summer is not a time to pause your exfoliation; it’s a time to refine your approach. By continuing gentle exfoliation while staying diligent with SPF and hydration, you help your skin stay clear, bright, and healthy all summer long.
