Beach days, pool dips and long BBQ afternoons are part of an Australian Christmas. They are also a perfect storm for sensitive skin. Saltwater, chlorine, heat, sweat and high UV can disrupt the skin barrier, leaving skin tight, itchy, flushed, or more reactive than usual.

The goal is not to avoid summer. It is to protect your barrier so your skin stays comfortable, resilient and calm. If your skin has been feeling tight or lacklustre lately, our dry, dehydrated and dull skin page is a helpful starting point for understanding what your skin needs in summer.

Why beach and pool days can trigger sensitivity

Saltwater can dehydrate the skin

Saltwater can pull moisture from the skin, especially with repeated exposure. For sensitive skin types, that dehydration can lead to tightness, rough texture and stinging when you apply products after a swim.

Chlorine can strip natural oils

Chlorine is a common trigger for dryness and irritation. It can strip the skin’s natural lipids, increasing sensitivity and leaving the skin feeling itchy, uncomfortable or flushed.

High UV increases barrier stress

UV exposure is a major stressor for the skin barrier. It can increase inflammation, worsen sensitivity, and contribute to uneven tone over time. If you are prone to sunspots or uneven colour, explore our pigmentation and brown spots support page.

Before you head out: protect the barrier

1) Start with a protective base

Before sunscreen, apply a gentle, fragrance free moisturiser to help buffer the skin. Barrier supporting ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin and panthenol can help skin feel less reactive during the day.

2) Apply SPF properly and plan to reapply

SPF is the non negotiable for Australian summer. Apply SPF 50 generously to face, neck, chest and ears. Reapply when outdoors, and always reapply after swimming or towel drying.

If you are spending the whole day outside, add physical protection such as a hat, sunglasses and shade breaks. Consistency is what protects skin in the long run.

3) Pack for skin comfort

• SPF for face and body
• A hat and sunglasses
• A gentle cleanser for the evening
• A barrier cream for areas that dry out easily

During the day: keep irritation low

Seek shade where possible, especially during peak UV hours

Rinse salt or chlorine off sooner rather than later if facilities are available

Keep water intake steady

Avoid harsh wipes or fragrance heavy sprays on the face

After swimming: your reset routine

1) Rinse as soon as you can

Rinse off saltwater or chlorine with cool to lukewarm water. This reduces residue on the skin and helps prevent ongoing dryness.

2) Cleanse gently, especially if you reapply SPF

Use a gentle, soap free cleanser to remove sunscreen, sweat and residue. Avoid harsh foaming cleansers and scrubs, which can worsen barrier disruption.

3) Rehydrate in layers

Apply a hydrating serum while skin is slightly damp, then follow with a barrier supporting moisturiser. If your skin feels uncomfortable after swimming, focus on hydration and barrier repair rather than exfoliation.

When redness is part of the picture

If you flush easily or notice increased redness in summer, your barrier may need extra support. Our rosacea and diffused redness page shares additional information on redness triggers and supportive options for sensitive skin.

In clinic support for sensitive summer skin

If beach and pool days regularly leave your skin uncomfortable, in clinic support can help strengthen the barrier and calm reactivity through summer.

LED light therapy is a popular option for sensitive skin because it can support calmer looking skin and help reduce visible redness without relying on aggressive exfoliation.

If your skin feels dull, dehydrated, or congested from heavy sunscreen use, HydraFacial can be a great supportive reset. It helps cleanse and gently refresh the skin while delivering hydration and antioxidants.

The safest way to choose the right treatment is with a professional consultation, so your plan is tailored to your skin type and how it behaves in summer.

Book a skin consultation

If your skin is reactive every summer, book a professional consultation so our dermal clinicians can help you build a realistic routine and treatment plan that supports your barrier long term.

Book here: VISIA Skin Consultation