Charleston’s “Clean Beauty” Crisis: Is Humidity Ruining Your Routine?
By Franklin Everett ShawCharleston summers. They’re beautiful, historic, and relentlessly humid. That dewy glow you crave? In Charleston, it’s more like a constant, sticky sheen. Navigating the Holy City’s climate requires a strategic approach, especially when it comes to clean beauty.
Forget everything you think you know about skincare. What works in Denver won’t cut it here. This isn’t about finding the perfect product; it’s about understanding how humidity interacts with your skin and adjusting accordingly.
First, ditch the heavy oils. Seriously. Those luxurious facial oils that kept your skin happy during the winter months? They’re now your enemy.
Oil-based products trap moisture against your skin, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and exacerbating that already present humidity-induced shine. Think clogged pores and breakouts.
Instead, embrace water-based serums and lightweight moisturizers. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture into the skin without adding extra oil.
Consider a gel-based moisturizer. These absorb quickly and leave a matte finish, a godsend in Charleston’s climate.
Next, rethink your makeup routine. That full-coverage foundation? It’s going to slide right off your face by lunchtime.
Opt for tinted moisturizers or BB creams with SPF. These provide light coverage while allowing your skin to breathe.
Powder is your friend, but use it strategically. A light dusting of translucent powder in your T-zone can help control shine without looking cakey.
Avoid heavy contouring and highlighting. The humidity will naturally enhance your features, so less is more.
Waterproof mascara and eyeliner are non-negotiable. Trust me on this one.
Setting spray is your secret weapon. Look for a mattifying formula to lock in your makeup and prevent it from melting.
Application techniques are just as important as product selection. Start with a clean, dry face.
Apply your skincare products in thin layers, allowing each layer to fully absorb before moving on to the next. This prevents product buildup and ensures that your skin can breathe.
Use a makeup sponge or brush to apply your foundation or tinted moisturizer. This will help to create a more even and natural finish.
Blot your face throughout the day with blotting papers. These absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup.
Don’t rub; gently press the blotting paper against your skin.
Humidity-induced breakouts are a common problem in Charleston. The combination of sweat, oil, and humidity creates the perfect environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.
Double cleansing is essential. Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a gentle, water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities.
Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Use a gentle chemical exfoliant, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid, once or twice a week.
Avoid harsh scrubs, which can irritate your skin and make breakouts worse.
Spot treat breakouts with a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid treatment. Apply a thin layer to the affected area only.
Don’t pick at your pimples. This will only make them worse and can lead to scarring.
Consider a clay mask once a week to draw out impurities and control oil production.
Local Charleston businesses can provide personalized consultations for clean beauty in humid climates. Check out:
Bluemercury on King Street: They offer a wide range of clean beauty products and personalized skincare consultations. Their staff is knowledgeable about the specific needs of Charleston skin.
Savannah Bee Company on Broughton Street (just over the border in Savannah, GA, but worth the trip): While primarily known for honey, they have a surprisingly good selection of natural skincare products, including honey-based cleansers and moisturizers that can be surprisingly effective in humid climates. The honey acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin without being heavy.
Sephora at the Charleston City Market: While not exclusively clean beauty, Sephora carries a growing selection of clean beauty brands and offers free skincare consultations. Ask for recommendations for products that are suitable for humid climates.
Local estheticians: Many independent estheticians in Charleston specialize in clean beauty and can provide personalized skincare treatments and product recommendations. Search online for “clean beauty esthetician Charleston SC” to find a qualified professional.
One common mistake is over-exfoliating. In an attempt to combat breakouts, many people over-exfoliate their skin, which can lead to irritation and inflammation.
Stick to exfoliating once or twice a week and use a gentle exfoliant.
Another mistake is using too many products. Layering on too many products can clog your pores and make your skin feel heavy and greasy.
Simplify your routine and focus on using a few high-quality products that are specifically designed for humid climates.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. What works for one person may not work for another.
Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and adjust your routine accordingly.
Remember, consistency is key. It takes time to see results from any skincare routine.
Be patient and stick with it, and you’ll be rewarded with healthy, glowing skin, even in Charleston’s humid climate.
Consider a facial steamer. A quick steam before cleansing can help open pores and loosen impurities, making your cleansing routine more effective.
But don’t overdo it. Limit steaming to once or twice a week to avoid drying out your skin.
Finally, remember that diet and lifestyle play a significant role in skin health. Drink plenty of water, eat a healthy diet, and get enough sleep.
These habits will help to keep your skin looking its best, no matter the weather.
Charleston’s humidity presents unique challenges for clean beauty. But with the right products, techniques, and a little bit of knowledge, you can achieve a healthy, radiant complexion, even in the stickiest of conditions. Embrace the humidity, adapt your routine, and enjoy the beauty of the Holy City.