The summer's guide to sebum control
How to get clear and balanced skin with Korean skincare
As a beauty expert, I often get asked how to best manage oily, shiny skin in the summer. The short answer is: balance is key – not just in cleansing, but also in temperature, moisture and ingredients. Here, I share my pro tips on how to effectively control sebum production and achieve fresh, clear skin through hot summer days .
1. 🔥 Why does skin get oilier in the summer?
When the temperature increases by one degree, sebum production increases by about 1%. A hot and humid climate stimulates the skin's oil production – which can lead to clogged pores, blackheads and acne .
2. ❄️ Lower skin temperature
The skin's sebaceous glands are very sensitive to heat. Therefore, it is important to:
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Using cooling products such as mists, sheet masks or modeling masks
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Avoid vigorous massage (which can increase sebum production)
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Try light lymphatic massage to calm the skin
3. 🧼 Gentle, but thorough clean
Choose a gentle, foaming cleanser – don't scrub or use rough exfoliating gloves.
💡 PHA (Polyhydroxy acid) is a gentle acid that exfoliates without damaging the skin barrier, ideal for oily and sensitive skin .
4. 💧 Moisture is more important than you think
Dehydrated skin produces more oil to compensate.
Tip:
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Use light, soothing moisturizers with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera
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Drink 1.5–2 liters of water daily to regulate skin temperature from within
5. ☀️ Sunscreen – light but effective
Avoid heavy sunscreens that clog pores. Go for:
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Light, water-based or liquid sunscreens
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Always cleanse your skin thoroughly in the evening.
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In case of outbreaks: use physical protection such as a hat and shade , and temporarily pause sunscreen
6. ✨ Active ingredients that balance the skin
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PHA : Mild acid that both removes dead skin cells and provides moisture
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Hyaluronic acid : Binds moisture and gives elasticity to the skin
7. My recommended products as an expert
☀️ Recommended products for sebum control and summer-friendly skin care
When skin gets oily, hot and reactive in the summer, it's not about removing everything – it's about balancing and strengthening . Here are my selected products to help you with just that:
🧊 Modeling Mask – Cooling and astringent
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Quickly lowers skin temperature after sun and heat
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Has an astringent effect on pores and soothes irritation
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Feel free to use over a serum for increased effect and penetration.
💧 PHA Peeling gel - Gentle but effective exfoliation
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Gentle acid (PHA) suitable even for sensitive skin
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Removes dead skin cells and keeps pores clean
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Leaves skin smooth and fresh – without irritation or redness
🥥 Coconut Cellulose Peeling Gel – Natural Physical Exfoliation
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Based on coconut cellulose – without microplastics and without abrasion on the skin
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Gently improves skin texture and glow
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Perfect for those who want natural exfoliation without stressing the skin.
💦 Soothing mist – Instant moisture and cooling
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Lowers skin temperature during the day
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Contains aloe vera and centella asiatica to soothe and moisturize
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Perfect after sun, exercise or as a moisture boost over makeup
🧠 Expert tip: Pat lightly after application – don't let the mist just evaporate!
🌿 Soothing gel – Cooling and balancing moisture care
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Light jelly texture that calms heat and redness
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With aloe vera, green tea and panthenol – absorbs quickly without clogging
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Ideal for oily, combination or irritated skin
🧠 Store in the refrigerator for extra effect after sunbathing!
✅ Final advice from a beauty expert
Summer skin needs care – not overtreatment.
Lowering the temperature, proper exfoliation and balanced moisture are key.
By using the right products and routines, your skin will withstand the summer heat much better –
and it will show. With or without makeup.