Storing skincare products in the refrigerator during a heatwave may actually damage them and compromise their effectiveness, according to skin experts. Andrea Pfeffer, skin expert and founder of London clinic Salon C. Stellar, told Metro that unless a brand specifically instructs refrigeration, the formula was not designed to be kept cold.
Why Refrigeration Can Harm Skincare
Pfeffer explained that products are stability tested at conditions set by the manufacturer, typically around 25 degrees Celsius. The cold can destabilise the formulation, dull its effectiveness, and even cause ingredients to separate. This warning comes as many people seek relief from the UK heatwave by cooling their beauty products.
Ikè Muotoh, founder of African botanical bodycare brand Dibia, advises against refrigerating balms, facial oils, clay masks, or acids. However, he keeps his gua sha tool in the fridge for de-puffing, noting that it works wonders.
Alternative Cooling Methods
Instead of refrigerating products, Pfeffer recommends feeding the skin through consistent routines and lightweight textures. She suggests serums like Esse Probiotic Serum (£78) or RAESO Morning Dew Vitamin C Serum (£110), which deliver hydration without heaviness. She emphasises that lighter textures are better tolerated when sweating more.
Pfeffer also highlights that the only non-negotiable during a heatwave is applying and reapplying a broad-spectrum SPF that protects against UVA and UVB rays.
Caution with Exfoliation and Retinoids
For those who exfoliate daily, Pfeffer advises caution when temperatures are scorching. Hot, sweaty skin is already working hard, so this is not the moment to challenge it. She recommends continuing with retinoids like Medik8 Crystal Retinal (from £50) in the evening routine, stating, "Don't retire your vitamin A for summer." Vitamin A products are hard-working for pigmentation and supporting skin after sun exposure.
Face Mists and Body Oils
For cooling relief, Pfeffer suggests a well-formulated face mist rich in humectants and emollients, such as Byoma Balancing Face Mist (£11.99), which contains ceramides, allantoin, and probiotics to soothe and hydrate. Muotoh advises opting for lighter oils over creams for hydration, applied to damp skin after a cool shower. His Dibia Sacred Radiance Body Oil (£45) features baobab, marula, and manketti oils rich in essential fatty acids.
After Sun Care
If sunburn or heat rash occurs, Pfeffer advises avoiding acids, vitamin A, or fragrance. Instead, cool the area with lukewarm or cool water and pat dry. She recommends a ceramide cream and warns against bright green after-sun gels loaded with fragrance and alcohol, as the alcohol dries the skin when it needs moisture most. Her go-to is Heliocare Aftersun UV Repair (£24.99), containing vitamin E, panthenol, and pentavitin.
