Note: the Fiomio journal is in a test phase. The content and visuals are still evolving.
France is living through one of its earliest and most intense heatwaves on record: 23 and 24 June 2026 were the hottest days ever measured in the country, with peaks of 40 to 42 C and up to 58 departments under red alert. Before we talk skin, the essential part: a heatwave is first a health risk. Drink water, stay cool, check on vulnerable people. Skincare comes after.
That said, here is something useful: Seoul has faced extreme summers for far longer. Korea hit 39.6 C in 2018, dozens of tropical nights in a row, and repeated long, humid heatwaves. As a result, K-beauty built real know-how for skin under heat. Here is what you can borrow.
1. Hydrate light, not heavy
In high heat, a rich cream can suffocate the skin and add shine. The Korean approach: watery textures, essences and gels that hydrate without weighing down. Water first, occlusive to a minimum.
2. Soothe: the cica culture
Heat, sweat, sun and air conditioning leave skin red and reactive. Korea popularised soothing care with centella (cica), mugwort, aloe and green tea. A cica gel or cream calms heat-stressed skin far better than a standard moisturiser.
The Korean move: cool that soothes
A very common Korean summer habit: keep your toner or soothing mist (aloe, centella) in the fridge. On heated skin, sweep it on with a soaked cotton pad to gently cleanse and calm, or spritz the chilled mist. The cold cuts the feeling of heat, de-puffs and soothes on the spot. Simple, cheap, effective.
3. Sun protection, non-negotiable
Koreans are among the most rigorous in the world about SPF. In strong heat and high UV, choose a light, comfortable sunscreen and, above all, reapply during the day. It is the most cost-effective anti-ageing and anti-spot step there is.
4. Cool down and manage oil without stripping
Refreshing mists, blotting papers, gentle cleansing: control excess oil without aggression. Stripping the skin pushes it to make more oil, the opposite of what you want.
5. Repair at night
Air conditioning dries the skin; sweat and sun weaken the barrier. In the evening, lean on gentle hydration and niacinamide to restore, rather than on strong actives.
6. In a heatwave, less is more
This is the time to pare back. Retinoids and strong acids can irritate skin already stressed by heat. Priority: barrier, soothing, sun. The rest can wait until the episode passes.
Why this matters for you
A routine designed for a mild spring is not built for 40 C. That is exactly the idea behind Fiomio: the diagnostic crosses your skin with your city's real climate, heatwave included, and explains what to adjust now. Take your free diagnostic.
And first, take care of yourself: water, shade, cool air. The skin follows.