Summer may be the season of glowing skin, but Bermuda's heat, humidity and sunshine can also create some of the biggest beauty challenges of the year. Oily skin, dehydration, clogged pores and sun damage are all common concerns, making it the perfect time to rethink your skincare routine.

Andrea Fubler, owner of Salt + Cedar, says one of the biggest misconceptions is that skin only needs less during the summer.

“The biggest paradox of summer skincare is that our skin can be simultaneously oily and dehydrated. The heat and humidity trigger extra sebum and sweat, which can lead to clogged pores, but the sun and air conditioning strip away essential moisture.”

Instead of stripping skin with harsh products, she recommends making a few strategic swaps.

“Swap your cleanser for a gentle gel that sweeps away dirt, sweat and sunscreen without stripping your skin barrier. Replenish moisture with a lightweight cream, and if you're sleeping with the air conditioning on, layer an oil or balm over the top to lock everything in.”

If Fubler could build the perfect summer beauty bag, these would be her essentials.

A gentle gel cleanser keeps skin clean without leaving it dry, while a Vitamin C serum acts as a second line of defence against sun-induced pigmentation and helps brighten the complexion.

For daytime, she recommends a tinted mineral sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection while lightly evening out the skin tone.

“A tinted mineral SPF gives you sun protection and that 'your-skin-but-better' finish without feeling like you're wearing heavy makeup.”

And to complete the look, she reaches for multi-purpose products that work harder in the heat.

“A multi-use lip and cheek tint gives you that effortless, sun-kissed flush, while a clean lifting mascara instantly opens up the eyes and makes you look bright and awake.”

But no summer skincare conversation is complete without sunscreen.

At Salt + Cedar, Ms Fubler exclusively stocks broad-spectrum mineral sunscreens made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

“They act like a physical shield, reflecting UV rays, and they're much gentler on sensitive skin and our oceans.”

She recommends using the “two-finger rule” when applying sunscreen.

“Two full strips of sunscreen down your pointer and middle fingers is the amount needed for your face and neck. It's non-negotiable every two hours if you're outside.”

For makeup wearers, she recommends mineral powder sunscreen as an easy way to top up protection throughout the day.

“Our mineral powder SPF from Brush on Block makes touching up on the go incredibly easy.”

As warm weather calls for lightweight hydration and ingredients that support the skin rather than overwhelm it, Ms Fubler recommends looking for hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to replenish moisture, niacinamide to regulate oil production and calm inflammation, and Vitamin C to brighten and protect against environmental damage.

She also encourages people to rethink some heavier products during the hottest months.

“Be very careful with heavy oils like coconut oil, which can trap sweat and clog pores in the humidity.”

She also advises limiting stronger active ingredients during the day.

“AHAs and retinol make your skin much more sensitive to the sun, so keep those strictly in your night-time routine.”

Ms Fubler says customers are increasingly looking for products that are effective, easy to use and environmentally conscious.

“Our number one ask in the summer is always reef-safe, invisible sunscreens that don't leave a white cast.”

And after long days outdoors, collagen masks have also become a customer favourite.

“People love the Ametta Collagen Masks because they deeply plump, hydrate and revive sun-stressed skin.”

She says summer beauty trends aren't limited to skincare.

“Another massive trend we can't keep on the shelves is the jelly nail look. Customers are loving the Jelly Polishes from Manucurist. Their glassy, sheer, translucent finish is the ultimate chic summer vibe.”

One of the biggest beauty myths Ms Fubler continues to hear is that retinol should be avoided throughout the summer.

“That is completely false. You absolutely can and honestly you should keep using retinol during the warmer months to maintain that smooth, cell-renewing glow.”

“Keep it strictly to your evening routine. As long as you're diligent about wearing SPF the next morning there's no reason to bench your retinol for the season.”

Asked about another common misconception, she said skipping moisturiser due to oily or sweaty skin.

“When you skip moisturiser, your skin actually panics and produces more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration, which just leads to clogged pores. The secret is swapping to a lighter, water-based hydrator, not skipping it altogether.”

For anyone looking to simplify their skincare routine this summer, Ms Fubler recommends focusing on consistency rather than complexity.

In the morning, she suggests cleansing with a gentle cream cleanser or toner, applying a Vitamin C serum, following with a lightweight moisturiser and finishing with SPF 30 or higher.

And for the evening, she suggests focusing on repairing the skin. Ms Fubler recommends thoroughly cleansing away sunscreen and the day's build-up, applying a targeted treatment such as retinol or a gentle exfoliant, and sealing everything in with a soothing night-time moisturiser.

“It doesn't have to be complicated. The goal is healthy, protected skin that can handle everything a Bermuda summer throws at it.”