Summer skin SOS

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By Suzanne B. Gleason

Chances are, you're planning on using the same skin-care products this summer that you used this past winter. But what you may not know is that skin care is seasonal. "Skin is prone to dryness during the winter -- and oiliness during the summer," explains dermatologist David Sire, M.D., director of Advanced Laser and Dermatology in Fullerton, Calif. So you need to revamp your routine accordingly. Here's how:

Try a toner. While you can use the same cleanser year round, come summer you'll get a little extra cleansing with toners that help remove excess oils. (You can use them instead of a cleanser in the morning, after cleansing in the evening or even during the day to freshen up.) "Use a toner that contains an oil solvent (like alcohol or witch hazel) during the summer," Sire says. (Women with rosacea or eczema should steer clear of toners, which can aggravate their condition.) Best bets: Olay Refreshing Toner ($3.59; 800-285-5170) and Origins United State Balancing Tonic ($16; origins.com).

Use a clay- or mud-based mask. If you typically use hydrating masks, you may want to switch to a mud- or clay-based mask. (You can use it up to three times a week.) "Mud and clay are absorbent, helping to draw oil and impurities out of the skin, unclogging pores," Sire explains. Good ones to try: Elizabeth Arden Deep Cleansing Mask ($15; elizabetharden.com) or Estée Lauder So Clean ($19.50; esteelauder.com).

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