Summer Skincare Secrets: How to Protect and Glow in the Heat

As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, your skincare routine needs a little update to keep your skin healthy, protected, and glowing. Summer weather presents specific challenges: UV exposure, humidity, sweat, and the drying effects of air conditioning. But with the right products and a tailored routine, you can safeguard your skin, prevent damage, and keep your glow intact all season long.

We’ll dive into the best summer skincare essentials, including how to protect your skin from harmful sun exposure, keep it hydrated, and maintain a fresh and dewy complexion throughout the hot months. Plus, we’ll recommend some fantastic products available in the UK that will help you achieve summer skin goals.

1. Sun Protection: Your First Line of Defense

The number one priority in your summer skincare routine is sun protection. Sun exposure not only accelerates aging but also increases the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Wearing sunscreen every day is a must, even if you’re not spending the entire day outside. It’s essential to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Top Sunscreens for Summer:

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF 50+
- Best For: Sensitive skin types, those prone to sunburn.
- How to Use: Apply generously on clean skin every morning, 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.
- Texture: Lightweight fluid that dries with a non-greasy, matte finish.
- Where to Buy: Boots, LookFantastic, FeelUnique.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
- Best For: All skin types, especially those who prefer a non-white cast.
- How to Use: Apply as the last step in your skincare routine. Can be worn under makeup.
- Texture: Clear, gel-like consistency that is invisible on the skin.
- Where to Buy: Cult Beauty, Sephora, Space NK.
Vichy Capital Soleil UV Age Daily SPF 50+
- Best For: Aging skin, those wanting extra anti-aging benefits.
- How to Use: Apply as the final step in your morning routine, 15 minutes before exposure.
- Texture: Lightweight, absorbs quickly with no greasy residue.
- Where to Buy: Boots, LookFantastic, FeelUnique.

2. Hydration: Quench Your Skin’s Thirst

Summer sun and heat can lead to dehydration, making it important to maintain moisture in your skin. Dehydrated skin can result in dullness, fine lines, and an uneven texture. The key to radiant, healthy skin is choosing products that restore and lock in moisture.

Top Hydrating Products for Summer:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
- Best For: Oily to combination skin, those prone to clogged pores.
- How to Use: After cleansing, apply a pea-sized amount to the face and neck, gently massaging in.
- Texture: Lightweight, gel-based moisturizer that absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue.
- Where to Buy: Boots, Superdrug, Amazon.
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream
- Best For: Dry and sensitive skin.
- How to Use: Apply a generous layer to your face after cleansing and toning.
- Texture: Rich, whipped formula that deeply nourishes and restores moisture.
- Where to Buy: Cult Beauty, Space NK.
Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
- Best For: Dry and dehydrated skin, those who want a boost of hydration.
- How to Use: Pat onto skin after cleansing. Follow up with your moisturizer.
- Texture: A hydrating toner that feels like a serum, lightweight but incredibly hydrating.
- Where to Buy: Amazon, YesStyle, LookFantastic.

3. Exfoliation: Keep Skin Smooth and Radiant

Exfoliation is key for maintaining glowing skin, especially during summer when dead skin cells and sweat can build up. Regular exfoliation helps prevent clogged pores, evens out skin tone, and promotes the regeneration of fresh, new skin.

Top Exfoliators for Summer:

Pixi Glow Tonic (5% Glycolic Acid)
- Best For: All skin types (avoid if you have sensitive skin prone to irritation).
- How to Use: After cleansing, apply the toner to a cotton pad and gently sweep it over your face. Use 2-3 times per week.
- Texture: Lightweight, slightly acidic formula that boosts skin radiance.
- Where to Buy: Cult Beauty, Boots, LookFantastic.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
- Best For: Experienced exfoliator users, those with oily or acne-prone skin.
- How to Use: Apply evenly to dry, clean skin for 10 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water. Use once a week.
- Texture: Viscous, red solution that exfoliates and smoothens the skin.
- Where to Buy: The Ordinary website, Boots, Cult Beauty.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Brightening Peel Pads
- Best For: Dull skin that needs an instant glow boost.
- How to Use: Gently swipe a pad over your face after cleansing, avoiding the eye area. Use 2-3 times a week.
- Texture: Pre-soaked pads that deliver gentle exfoliation.
- Where to Buy: Boots, Superdrug.

4. Protection from Pollutants: Keep the Skin Clean and Fresh

During the summer months, the skin is exposed to a combination of UV rays, sweat, and environmental pollutants. Air pollution can cause free radical damage, leading to premature aging, dark spots, and an uneven complexion. Using products that shield your skin from external aggressors is important.

Top Pollution Protection Products:

Murad City Skin Age Defense SPF 50
- Best For: All skin types, especially those living in cities with high pollution levels.
- How to Use: Apply as the last step in your skincare routine, before makeup.
- Texture: Lightweight sunscreen that also works as an anti-pollution shield.
- Where to Buy: Murad UK, LookFantastic, John Lewis.
Kate Somerville EradiKate Daily Cleanser
- Best For: Oily, acne-prone skin or those exposed to urban pollutants.
- How to Use: Use daily, massaging onto damp skin, then rinse thoroughly.
- Texture: Foaming cleanser that deeply purifies and balances the skin.
- Where to Buy: Cult Beauty, Space NK.

5. Cooling Masks: Soothe and Refresh

Summer heat can be harsh on the skin, leading to redness, inflammation, or irritation. Cooling masks are a great way to provide instant relief and refresh your skin after a long day in the sun or air-conditioned spaces.

Top Cooling Masks for Summer:

Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask
- Best For: Dry, dehydrated skin that needs overnight hydration.
- How to Use: Apply a thick layer to your face before bed, and leave it on overnight. Rinse off in the morning.
- Texture: Rich, creamy formula that soothes and nourishes.
- Where to Buy: Origins, Boots, LookFantastic.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Instant Oatmeal Mask
- Best For: Sensitive skin or skin prone to redness.
- How to Use: Apply to clean skin for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off.
- Texture: Cooling oatmeal-based mask that reduces irritation and replenishes moisture.
- Where to Buy: Cult Beauty, FeelUnique, Boots.
Fresh Rose Face Mask
- Best For: Dry, sensitive skin, especially those who enjoy soothing and refreshing treatments.
- How to Use: Apply a generous layer to clean skin and leave for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
- Texture: Cooling gel mask that hydrates and refreshes.
- Where to Buy: Sephora, Fresh, Cult Beauty.