Restore your glow: 5 tips for a spring skin tune-up

Woman in a field smiling and holding her face.

After months of wool sweaters, dry indoor heat and cold winds, your skin probably needs a tune-up. According to Atlantic Health dermatologist Cindy Wassef, MD, springtime is a great time to refresh, protect and prepare your skin for the sunnier days ahead.

“Seasonal changes affect the skin more than most people realize,” she says. “As humidity increases and temperatures rise, your skin’s needs shift—and your skincare routines should shift with it.”

Here’s how.

1. Swap heavy winter creams for lighter moisturizers

Winter air pulls moisture from your skin, which is why thick creams and ointments are often necessary. But as temperatures rise and humidity increases, those heavier products may feel greasy and heavy.

Consider transitioning to lighter lotions that still hydrate but don’t overwhelm your skin. This switch can also help prevent breakouts and irritation from increased sweating or if you’re prone to acne.

2. Refresh your sunscreen supply

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher 30 minutes before going outside and reapplying every two hours if you’re staying outdoors. Since sunscreen habits slip during the winter, check your products. If your face and body sunscreens are expired, replace them so you’re ready for consistent daily use again.

“Sun exposure is the number one cause of skin aging and it’s a major risk factor for skin cancer,” says Dr. Wassef. “Protecting your skin now prevents damage later.”

3. Schedule your annual skin exam

Before summer arrives, schedule a full-body skin check with a dermatologist. Skin cancer screenings are recommended once a year for most adults, and spring is an ideal time to do it.

During a skin exam, you’ll change into a gown so the dermatologist can examine your skin from head to toe, looking for new, changing or unusual spots.

4. Plan treatments before peak sun season

If you’re considering skin treatment for sun damage, precancerous spots or even cosmetic laser procedures, spring is the time. That’s because many of these treatments require limited sun exposure and downtime while healing.

“Once summer arrives, increased UV exposure can interfere with healing and increase redness and complications,” says Dr. Wassef. “Planning now means a smoother recovery and better results.”

5. Get ahead of warm-weather rashes

Warmer temperatures mean sweat — and for some people, that means rashes. Conditions like eczema and intertrigo can flare from sweat and summer heat. To prevent irritation:

Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics
Shower after sweating and dry skin folds thoroughly
Use a towel — or even a cool blow dryer — to completely dry areas like underarms and beneath the breasts
Make sure fans and air conditioning are working before the heat hits

“Spring is a season of renewal — and your skin deserves one, too,” says Dr. Wassef. “A few small adjustments now can help renew and protect your skin into summer.”

Find a Dermatologist

Published: March 20, 2026

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