Do you live in or plan on moving to a place with a humid climate, like the Philippines? Chances are, you’ll be facing unique skincare challenges that might not always be obvious at first glance. While the added moisture in the air can be a blessing for dry or dehydrated skin, it also tends to increase oil production and trap sweat, leading to a range of issues that can compromise skin health. If you’re using the same routine you’d follow in a drier or cooler environment, then it may not be serving your skin as well as it could.
Frequent breakouts, greasy skin, enlarged pores, and irritation are just some of the concerns people face in consistently humid weather. Fortunately, these issues are not inevitable. Most are preventable—or at the very least manageable—with the right skincare practices.
Knowing exactly how humidity affects your skin’s behavior is the first step toward building a routine that works with your environment rather than against it. From there, you should find it easier to identify the products you need, such as lightweight, gentle cleansing washes and ointment for itchy skin Philippines residents recommend.
Here are a few practical, easy-to-follow skincare tips that can help you care for your skin more effectively in humid conditions:
1) Wash Your Face Twice a Day
Excess sweat and oil don’t just sit on the surface of your skin—they also mix with dirt and dead skin cells and can quickly clog pores if left unwashed. It’s especially important to keep your face clean in humid climates, but that doesn’t mean you need harsh scrubs or strong cleansers.
A gentle, non-comedogenic face wash used twice daily—once in the morning and once at night—can remove buildup without disrupting your skin’s natural barrier. If your skin feels particularly greasy during the day, a splash of cool water or a swipe with a damp microfiber cloth can help refresh your face without overcleansing.
2) Choose Lightweight Moisturizers
Just because the air is moist doesn’t mean you can skip out on hydrators. In fact, avoiding moisturizer altogether can backfire, as this sometimes prompts your skin to produce more oil to compensate.
The solution may be to switch to a lighter, water-based or gel-type formula. These moisturizers deliver the hydration your skin needs without feeling heavy or greasy. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin that attract water to the skin without clogging pores or causing congestion.
3) Never Skip Sunscreen
You’re not safe from UV damage just because it’s cloudy or humid outside. In fact, the combination of heat and UV exposure can amplify skin sensitivity, accelerate aging, and lead to long-term damage.
Be conscientious about applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every single day. Opt for a lightweight or gel-based sunscreen formulated specifically for oily or combination skin to avoid that sticky feeling. Some products also have a mattifying effect, which can help reduce midday shine while protecting your skin from harm.
4) Blot Oily Spots Instead of Overcleansing
It’s tempting to wash your face multiple times a day when it starts to feel greasy, but doing so can strip the skin’s natural oils and damage its protective barrier. In response, your skin may actually produce even more oil, creating a frustrating cycle.
The more effective thing to do is to gently blot away excess oil using blotting papers or a soft tissue. You can also use an alcohol-free toner during the day to freshen up without drying out the skin. This helps maintain balance while keeping shine under control.
5) Try a Clay Mask
Managing excess oil and preventing clogged pores often requires a bit of extra support, and that’s where a weekly clay mask can make a difference. Clay-based treatments—especially those containing kaolin or bentonite—help absorb surface oil, pull out impurities, and calm inflammation.
Regular use can lead to clearer-looking skin and fewer breakouts over time. Just be sure not to overdo it, as using a clay mask too often can irritate or dry out your skin, even in humid conditions.
6) Exfoliate Weekly
Sweat, sunscreen residue, and environmental pollutants can build up quickly, especially in hot, sticky weather. Use a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent congestion; this promotes a smoother, more even complexion overall.
Look for chemical exfoliants with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). Whatever product you choose, don’t scrub too hard—a light and consistent approach is more effective.
7) Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
What goes into your body can have just as much impact on your skin as what you apply topically. A diet rich in whole foods can support clearer skin by reducing inflammation and balancing oil production. Load up on fruit, vegetables, and sources of healthy fats.
Hydration also goes a long way. Most healthcare experts will recommend around 3.7 liters of water for men and 2.7 liters for women daily. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps maintain your skin’s moisture levels and can counteract the dehydrating effects of sweating in hot weather. It’s a simple step, but one that contributes meaningfully to healthy-looking skin. In truth, taking care of your skin in humid weather doesn’t require a complete overhaul—just a few smart adjustments and a consistent approach. Pay attention to how your skin responds to its environment; based on what you observe, you can then build a routine that keeps it clear and healthy year-round.
