Everything You Need To Know To Nail Your Summer Skincare Routine 

Summer is here, and it’s time to revamp your skincare routine to keep your skin looking radiant and healthy during the hot and sunny days ahead. As the seasons change, so do the needs of our skin – and in this comprehensive guide, Beauty Daily speaks to consultant dermatologist Dr Magnus Lynch, on why it’s essential to adapt your skincare routine for summer. Read on to discover the reasons behind dull summer skin, what your skin does and doesn’t need during this season, and most importantly – your ultimate summer skincare routine.   

Why should you adapt your skincare routine in summer? 

“Adapting your skincare routine in summer is important due to the heat, humidity and increased exposure to ultraviolet light in sunlight,” Lynch explains. “Sun exposure can lead to sunburn, premature ageing, and increases the risk of skin cancer, and this requires higher SPF protection,” he adds.   

But that’s not all. “Increased humidity causes excess oil production and can lead to breakouts, demanding lightweight and oil-free products. Plus, sweat can clog pores, making regular cleansing a must. Allergens and irritants prevalent during this season can also exacerbate skin issues, emphasising the need for gentle and soothing products too,” Lynch continues. By making these adjustments, you can protect your skin and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion despite the challenges posed by the summer weather. And if you do fall foul of these recommendations and develop sunburn or skin irritation, after sun is crucial. 

Why is my skin so dull in summer? 

Skin can appear duller in summer due to several factors. “The increased sun exposure during this season can lead to the accumulation of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface, causing it to look lacklustre and uneven,” Lynch says. “Additionally, higher humidity levels can stimulate excess oil production, potentially clogging pores and contributing to a dull appearance. While dehydration can also reduce the moisture levels in the skin, and exposure to environmental pollutants and allergens prevalent in the summer can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, diminishing the skin’s natural glow.” adds Lynch. 

What does your summer skin need?  

During the summer, skin typically needs protection, hydration, and oil control to stay healthy and radiant. “The increased sun exposure calls for adequate sun protection with products containing high SPF to prevent sunburn and protect against harmful UV rays,” says Lynch. While the skin’s propensity for excess oil production, makes oil-control products crucial for those with oily or acne-prone skin.  

“Hydration is also essential to counteract the dehydrating effects of hot weather, so lightweight and water-based moisturisers are ideal for all skin types,” adds Lynch. Regular exfoliation also helps to remove dead skin cells and maintain a vibrant and healthy complexion during the summer. 

How do you take care of your skin in the hot summer?  

According to Lynch, taking care of your skin efficiently in hot weather requires a few essential steps:  

• Apply sunscreen often  

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF every morning to protect against harmful UV rays.  

Try: Clarins UV Plus [5P] Anti-Pollution SPF50 Translucent, £34, which protects against UV rays as well as five other types of pollution encountered in everyday life.  

• Cleanse your face twice daily  

This will remove sweat, grime, and excess oil – but be sure to use one that’s suitable for your skin type.    

• Keep moisturising  

If your skin is dry use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser to maintain moisture balance.     

• Use an oil-controlling toner  

Consider using a BHA or AHA packed toner to help control oil and keep pores clear.   

• Exfoliate regularly  

Regularly exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and promote a radiant complexion.   

• Use a refreshing mist  

For extra cooling and soothing, keep a facial mist handy to refresh your skin throughout the day.  

What skin products to avoid in summer?  

During the summer it’s best to avoid heavy and greasy skincare products that can clog pores and exacerbate oiliness. “Go for lightweight, oil-free or gel-based moisturisers instead,” Lynch says.  

And while you should be exfoliating regularly, Lynch warns that you should pick gentle versions to prevent over-exfoliation and sensitivity – think mild chemical exfoliants or super smooth powder exfoliators over scratchy physical exfoliants, brushes, or cloths. Lastly, “avoid using heavy makeup that can trap sweat and lead to breakouts – and skip products with high alcohol content, strong fragrance and essential oils, as they can be drying, increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun and potentially cause irritation in the heat,” adds Lynch. 

Your Ultimate Summer Skincare Routine

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into your ultimate summer skincare routine, which focusses on sun protection, hydration, and light, refreshing products to keep the skin healthy and glowing in the hot weather. Here’s a step-by-step guide:  

1. Morning cleanser  

“Start the day with a gentle, water-based cleanser to remove any sweat or impurities accumulated overnight. Look for a gel or foaming cleanser that won’t strip the skin of its natural oils,” Lynch recommends. 

Try: MyBlend Enzyme Cleansing Foam, £70, a light foaming cleanser that contains papaya enzyme to remove dirt and excess oils from the skin.   

2. Toner  

“Follow up with a hydrating and soothing toner to balance the skin’s pH levels and prepare it for better absorption of subsequent products. A hydrating mist can also work as a refreshing alternative.”  

3. Vitamin C serum  

“Apply a Vitamin C serum to protect the skin from free radicals and environmental damage caused by increased sun exposure,” Lynch advises. Vitamin C also helps brighten the complexion and promotes collagen production.  

Read: Skin brightening creams for every concern  

4. Lightweight moisturiser  

“Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. This will provide adequate moisture without feeling heavy on the skin,” shares Lynch. 

5. Sunscreen  

“The most crucial step in a summer skincare routine is sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it generously to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Reapply every two hours, especially if you are outdoors,” says Lynch. 

Try: MyBlend Hydrating Antioxidant Screen: The SPF50 Face Cream, £40, which shields the skin from UV rays and pollution and protects from environmental stressors too. 

6. Night-time cleanser  

In the evening, use the same gentle cleanser you used in the morning to remove sunscreen, makeup, and impurities accumulated during the day.  

7. Exfoliator  

“Once or twice a week incorporate a gentle exfoliator into your routine. The aim is to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, so choose exfoliating agents like AHAs or BHAs,” recommends Lynch. 

Try: Clarins Beauty Flash Peel. £38, which contains a blend of AHA and BHA exfoliants to slough away dead skin cells to reveal a brighter complexion.  

8. Hydrating mask  

Treat your skin to a hydrating mask a couple of times a week to replenish moisture and soothe any sun-exposed areas. Look for versions that include ingredients like aloe vera or cucumber.  

Try: MyBlend Nourishing Mask, £120, packed with shea butter, collagen and peptides to comfort, hydrate and nourish the skin.   

9. Night cream  

Finish your routine with a lightweight, non-comedogenic night cream to seal in moisture and support the skin’s natural repair process overnight.  

Try: Clarins Hydra-Essentiel [HA2] Night Cream, £40 – a blend of hyaluronic acid and organic leaf of life extract to add an instant hit of hydration and plumpness.   

Summer skin recommendations based on your skin type  

According to Lynch, while summer skincare rules apply to all, the specific skincare ingredients you use should suit your skin type:  

Acne-prone skin  

Salicylic acid: A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts.  

Tea tree oil: Known for its antimicrobial properties, it can help combat acne-causing bacteria.  

Niacinamide: Helps regulate sebum production and reduces the appearance of blemishes.  

Oily skin  

Hyaluronic acid: Provides lightweight hydration without adding excess oil.  

Witch hazel: Acts as a natural astringent to minimise pore size and control oil production.  

Clay or Charcoal: These ingredients can help absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin.  

Dry skin  

Glycerin: Attracts and retains moisture, keeping the skin hydrated.  

Squalane: A lightweight, non-greasy oil that helps improve skin’s moisture balance.  

Ceramides: Reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss.  

Combination skin  

Green tea extract: Provides antioxidant benefits and can help soothe both oily and dry areas.  

Aloe vera: Has hydrating and soothing properties for the entire face.  

Niacinamide: Balances sebum production, making it suitable for both oily and dry areas.  

Mature skin  

Retinol (Vitamin A): Helps improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and promote collagen production.  

Peptides: Can help improve skin firmness and elasticity.  

Antioxidants (Vitamin C, Vitamin E): Protect the skin from free radicals and environmental damage.  

Discolouration  

Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and reduce dark spots.  

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): Help exfoliate the skin and fade discolouration over time.  

Liquorice extract: Has skin-lightening properties that can help reduce hyperpigmentation.  

Read next: Feeling frazzled? How to quench your dry summer skin