Ah, summer! Who doesn’t love sun-kissed skin, beach bonfires, and a cocktail in hand? Well, sun-kissed skin looks so much better when your summer skincare routine is on point! Most people might not think about their skincare routine too much, but as temperatures rise and humidity soars, their skin faces increased exposure. Sun, sweat, and environmental stressors can lead to dehydration, clogged pores, and breakouts if you don’t take proper care of your skin.

So, summer might be here, but don’t let your skincare routine suffer the consequences!

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The Best Summer Skincare Routine

It’s important to remember that you have to adjust your skincare routine according to the season. Every season has its stressors and concerns that need to be addressed before they get out of hand. Luckily, these changes aren’t major, and you won’t even notice the difference!

Gentle, But Thorough Cleansing

A clean face should always be the start of your skincare routine; no one uses a painted canvas to create an original piece. Higher temperatures and humidity will cause your skin to sweat more, make excess oil, and build up from sunscreen and environmental pollutants.

• Why: Sweat, sunscreen, and pollution build up faster in summer, clogging pores and dulling your glow.
• How: Use a gentle, pH-balanced gel or foam cleanser that removes impurities without stripping your skin’s natural oils. If your skin feels tight after cleansing, your product is too harsh—opt for something milder.
• Pro Tip: Cleanse twice daily, even if you don’t wear makeup. Consider a double cleanse (oil-based cleanser followed by water-based) to remove sunscreen and waterproof products at night fully.

Hydrating, Alcohol-Free Toner

Unlike alcohol-based toners, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry or irritated, alcohol-free formulas are designed to replenish moisture, soothe inflammation, and protect the skin’s delicate barrier. Look for a toner with active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera, which help restore hydration lost to sun, heat, and frequent cleansing.

• Why: Toners rebalance your skin’s pH and prep it for the next steps.
• How: Choose a toner with soothing, hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile. Avoid alcohol-based toners, which can be drying.
• Pro Tip: Store your toner in the fridge on hot days for a cooling, de-puffing effect. You can even ice your face before starting your summer skincare routine.

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Antioxidant Serum (Vitamin C Is Your Summer MVP)

Is there a better way to say this? Never. Skip. Your. Serum!

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays, pollution, and free radicals, which are more commonly found in the summer. Using your serum along with your sunscreen gives you a double defense against the sun, even when you’re out tanning.

• Why: Antioxidants like vitamin C protect against sun-induced free radical damage, brighten dark spots, and boost radiance.
• How: Apply a lightweight vitamin C serum every morning after toner.
• Pro Tip: Layer your vitamin C under sunscreen for amplified protection against UV and pollution.

Lightweight, Non-Greasy Moisturizer

During the summer, it’s best to opt for lightweight moisturizer that won’t cause excess oil. These moisturizers typically have water-based or gel-like textures that absorb quickly, giving you deep hydration without leaving your skin feeling heavy.

• Why: Hydration is still crucial in summer, but heavy creams can feel suffocating.
• How: Switch to a gel-based or water-based moisturizer that hydrates without clogging pores. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
• Pro Tip: For combination skin, try multi-moisturizing: use a richer cream on dry areas and a gel on oily zones.

Eye Cream with Cooling Applicator

Eye cream should always be part of your skincare routine to protect the delicate skin beneath your eyes. For an added bonus, a cooling applicator should be added during the summer months. The cooling effect helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, making your under-eye area look brighter and more awake.

• Why: The delicate eye area is prone to puffiness and sun damage.
• How: Use a hydrating eye cream with a metal or ceramic applicator to de-puff and refresh tired eyes.
• Pro Tip: Keep your eye cream in the fridge for an extra cooling boost.

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Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 30 or Higher)

This might be the last step in your skincare routine, but it sure is the most important. No matter the season, you should never leave home without your trusted SPF. Broad-spectrum formulas shield against both UVA rays, which penetrate deep into the skin, causing premature aging and collagen breakdown, and UVB rays, which primarily cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer risk.

• Why: Sunscreen is non-negotiable for preventing sunburn, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation.
• How: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, especially if you sweat or swim.
• Pro Tip: Don’t forget often-missed spots like ears, eyelids, lips, and the back of your neck. Use a powder or spray SPF for quick midday touch-ups.

Tips You Might Want To Try

Since you’re looking to get your summer skincare routine in tip-top shape, you might as well add one or two simple tricks to make your skincare go the extra mile. Remember, your summer skincare routine shouldn’t be an inconvenience; think of it as a little pamper session!

RELATED: 7 Signs You Need To Exfoliate

• Switch Up Your Cleansing Routine: If you’re prone to breakouts, add a gentle salicylic acid cleanser a few times a week to control oil and prevent blemishes – just don’t overdo it.
• Hydrate From Within: Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Consider adding electrolyte-rich drinks if you’re sweating heavily to maintain skin hydration from the inside out.
• Night Repair: Sun exposure accelerates skin aging. At night, use a gentle antioxidant serum to help repair daytime damage.
• Keep Products Cool: Store skincare (especially mists, toners, and eye creams) in the fridge for a refreshing, anti-inflammatory effect on hot days.
• Don’t Skip Lips and Scalp: Use SPF lip balm and consider a scalp sunscreen spray, or wear a hat to protect these sensitive areas.

Conclusion

Your head might be sipping cocktails on the beach, but that doesn’t mean your summer skincare routine should suffer the consequences. To get the most out of your skincare, make sure to stay consistent and keep any specific skin concerns you might have in mind when choosing your products. You might as well enjoy summer with glowing skin!

Happy Relaxing,
Your Wellness Warrior!