Sunlight is one of nature’s greatest gifts, bringing warmth and joy, especially in the summer. It encourages us to spend time outdoors at the beach, park, or even in our own backyard. However, too much sun exposure can lead to serious skin issues, from breakouts to long-term damage and even skin cancer.
A good summer skincare routine should be as versatile as you are. While sun protection is essential, your skin also needs deep cleansing to remove sweat and makeup, exfoliation to shed dead skin cells, and relief for sunburns when needed.
With that in mind, here’s a selection of summer beauty products that work efficiently without complicating your routine or straining your budget. The key? Choosing products that serve multiple purposes, saving both time and money.
Traditional face washing with water can strip moisture and irritate the skin. A gentler alternative is a micellar cleanser, which removes makeup and dirt with a simple swipe—no scrubbing or rinsing required. One great option is Soft Sweep by Care Skincare, a micellar cleanser and toner in one. If your usual routine involves makeup removal, cleansing, and toning, this $24 product combines all three steps into one.
Once your skin is clean, it’s time to moisturize—and ideally, with a product that includes sun protection. Many moisturizers contain SPF, but not all provide adequate coverage.
Dermatologists recommend using a moisturizer with at least SPF 50, as most people don’t apply enough sunscreen to achieve the full protection listed on the bottle. If you only use a thin layer, you may be getting just half the SPF you expect. Physical blockers like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide offer the best protection, though they can sometimes leave a white cast on the skin.
A great choice is SPF Rx Daily Skin Hydrator, which provides SPF 50 protection with zinc oxide. It’s water-resistant, free of PABA and fragrance, and doesn’t leave a white residue.
Beyond skincare, wearing a hat adds another layer of sun protection while elevating your summer style. It doesn’t have to be a traditional floppy hat—any wide-brimmed option, from a fedora to a visor, can provide the shade you need while keeping you fashionable. A stylish and practical choice is a cloche-inspired tweed floppy hat from Kohl’s, which is easy to pack and perfect for summer getaways.
Exfoliating once a week helps remove dead skin cells, boost circulation, and even fade dark spots by breaking up pigmented cells. Over time, your skin will look brighter, smoother, and softer. While there are plenty of store-bought exfoliators, you can also make your own using simple pantry ingredients. A great DIY option is a coffee, honey, and baking soda scrub, which works for both face and body. If you have sensitive skin, swap the coffee for oatmeal.
Even with the best precautions, sunburns can still happen. When they do, your skin needs time to heal, and resisting the urge to scratch or pick at irritated areas can be tough. Keeping a soothing cream or lotion on hand can help calm the burn and prevent further damage.
One effective option is Pain Relief Cream by CBD Essentials, which combines premium CBD with moisturizing coconut oil and shea butter. It’s also great for sore muscles and insect bites, making it a versatile addition to your summer skincare routine.