SOS: Save our skin - skincare tips for the Israeli summer

The combination of relentless heat, intense sun in Jerusalem, heavy humidity along the coastline, and a long season – with hot weather often stretching through November (!) – takes a toll on everyone, and the skin is likely the first to show it.

A short walk outside can leave your skin flushed, sticky, and prone to breakouts; and overexposure to UV rays carries serious health risks.

After seven long summers in Israel and through trial and error, I’ve learned that with a few adjustments, it’s possible to keep your skin healthy and radiant without hiding indoors or spending a fortune on dermatological products.

And while winters here are mild, new challenges creep up on our skin, such as dryness, sensitivity, or irritation. This guide includes some simple seasonal alternatives for when the seasons change, and will help you build a year-round regimen for well-balanced and resilient skin.

The first and most effective line of defense, both in the summer and year-round, is sun protection. Extensive sun exposure without adequate protection speeds up premature aging (such as fine lines and spots) and also increases the risk of skin cancer.

Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 (some higher, at 50) to shield skin from harmful UV rays and suggest reapplying every few hours. Although reapplying can feel like a chore, I find that keeping extra tubes in my car, purse, and by the bathroom sink make it an easy reminder.

Sunscreen isn’t one size fits all: Find the one that works for you. Over the years, I’ve tried just about everything – from celebrity-approved Elta MD to French pharmacy stables – but the one I always add to my shopping cart is the Korean brand Beauty of Joseon SPF 50.

It’s lightweight upon application, and it leaves the skin feeling plush and satiny without the greasy feel, making it easy to dab on all day. Best of all, it costs around NIS 78 for 50 ml. and is available at Israeli pharmacies.

I stick a trusty baseball cap in my bag. It works for any occasion, whether I’m commuting to work, running errands around the city, or at the beach.

Even in the winter, harmful UV rays remain persistent, especially in a warmer climate like Israel’s. Don’t skip using sunscreen just because it’s a cloudy day. Instead, opt for a thicker sunscreen, or combine your usual sunscreen with a bit of moisturizer for softer skin.

The best skincare advice for the summer, beyond the non-negotiables of sunscreen and a hat, is to keep your skincare regimen as simple as possible. Hot, humid weather already puts the skin under strain, and layering on too many products or heavy makeup can feel uncomfortable and lead to breakouts.

Keep daytime routines minimal but productive, with fewer products and lighter makeup, letting your skin breathe and prevent that overly shiny, sweaty look.

A lightweight moisturizer (like CeraVe or Cetaphil) keeps skin hydrated without feeling greasy, while Vitamin C creams or serums are great for fading sun spots and repairing sun damage.

If your skin is prone to dryness, hyaluronic acid-based moisturizers and serums should be your go-to for rehydrating the skin and giving it a plump look.

When it comes to makeup, I stick to the same rule of “less is more” in the summertime. I usually stick to mascara and a light concealer, or a tinted moisturizer, which is enough to look fresh without risking clogged pores.

Stronger products, like acids or retinoids (Vitamin A), are best saved for nighttime use. If you use these stronger products during the warmer months, dermatologists emphasize diligence with sunscreen and a hat, since these formulas can make the skin more sensitive to the sun.

The cold winter air can dry out the skin, so switching to richer moisturizers and serums is a must to maintain a healthy skin barrier.

Hyaluronic acid-based creams and serums are effective for keeping skin fresh and plump. The Ordinary offers a serum that mixes well with moisturizers, while CeraVe has a thicker formula that’s a great base layer under creams and sunscreen.

Winter is also the best season to maximize pimple patches because in the summer they often fall off due to sweat, but in the winter they hold on tight. These little stickers protect acne and blemishes from bacteria, speed up healing, and can be layered under makeup. Peace Out Skincare offers highly effective patches.

After a long day out in the Israeli summer heat, your skin needs a chance to rest, cool down, and repair before the next hot day begins. I find that maintaining a consistent nighttime routine is key, but adding small, season-specific alterations can make all the difference.

Silk or satin pillowcases, for example, aren’t just great for reducing hair breakage – they’re also gentle on the skin and noticeably cooler against your face during hot nights. They have a luxurious feel, can be ordered online, and with proper care, one pillowcase can last for years.

Another simple trick is to keep certain skincare products in the refrigerator. Putting a sheet mask in the fridge for 20 minutes before layering it on feels incredible after a long day outdoors, while also helping to depuff, soothe sunburned skin, and provide instant relief (aloe vera in the fridge is a must!).

Just like in summertime, your skin needs some time off during the night after facing the harsh winter air. If your skin feels patchy or flaky, dab on a little bit of petroleum-based gels (like Vaseline or Aquaphor) to dry areas such as around the nose and mouth. However, use sparingly to avoid breakouts.

Mix one or two drops of essential oil into your moisturizer before bed to wake up with softer skin. Jojoba and rosehip oil get the job done; but again, apply sparingly to prevent clogged pores.

Beyond skincare itself, staying cool and hydrated is just as important for keeping your skin healthy throughout the summer. The simplest solution is also the most effective: drinking lots of water. Consistent hydration helps maintain the skin’s natural glow.

Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere. If plain water feels boring, switch it up with electrolytes, coconut water, or fruit-infused water.

Cooling the skin directly also helps. A midday face splash or cold shower is an essential tactic during Israeli summers – just remember to moisturize afterward to prevent dryness.

Another underrated lifesaver is the portable hand-held fan. I was given a foldable one at a wedding, and it’s lived in my purse ever since. Inexpensive, lightweight, and surprisingly effective, it’s one of the easiest ways to stay comfortable when sitting outside.

And finally: Embrace the extreme dryness of Jerusalem and the sweaty feeling along Israel’s hot, humid coastline, where a shiny face is often inevitable. Prepare your skin so that breakouts are minimized, sun damage is prevented, and you stay as comfortable as possible.

And remember: Even if the summer feels endless, the mild Israeli fall and winter are just around the corner.

Staying hydrated in the winter is overlooked, but drinking sufficient amounts of water is just as important when it’s cold out, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Your skin will thank you for it.

If you struggle to drink enough water during the day, sip herbal or green tea. Green tea is especially antioxidant rich, soothing, and contains anti-inflammatory properties. 