I think it’s safe to say that summer is finally here! We’re still getting a spot of rain, but many of us are starting to think about holidays, days out, and enjoying the sunshine. And UK summers aren’t quite what they used to be, either – they can be more extreme and we’re now seeing more frequent heatwaves and much hotter days. As more people get air conditioning installed to deal with them, we also have much more noticeable changes between outdoor heat and cooler indoor spaces.
All of this can have a real impact on your skin. Summer skincare is about looking good, and it’s also about protecting and supporting your skin through very different conditions than the rest of the year. Here are some simple but important ways to keep your skin healthy, comfortable, and glowing.
1. Gently exfoliate
Using a body scrub is a lovely way to remove dead skin and leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed. Scrubs tend to be gentler than harsher exfoliating tools, and they smell amazing too.
In warmer weather, your skin can build up sweat, SPF, and general grime more quickly, especially during heatwaves. Regular exfoliation helps prevent dullness and allows your moisturisers and toners to absorb properly. Always follow with a good moisturiser to keep your skin balanced.
2. Stay hydrated inside and out
We all know drinking water is important, but in hot weather it becomes essential. When you sweat, your body loses fluid quickly, and during a heatwave this can happen faster than you realise.
On top of that, moving between hot outdoor air and cooler indoor environments (especially air conditioning) can leave your skin feeling dry and tight. Keeping your water intake up helps support your skin from within.
If you’re enjoying coffee, cocktails, or a glass of wine, just remember these can be dehydrating, so balance them with some extra water.
3. Be mindful of sun exposure
The sun can be stronger than we think, particularly during heatwaves. While a tan might be tempting, it’s best to avoid direct sun during peak hours, typically between 11am and 2pm, or longer on especially hot days.
Wearing a hat, covering your skin, and finding shade where possible can make a big difference. You’ll still pick up colour outside those peak times, just with less risk of damage.
And don’t forget that if you really do want that sun-kissed look, you can book in a spray tan with me any time!
4. Don’t skip the SPF
Apply your sun cream generously and reapply it throughout the day, especially on exposed areas like your face, arms, and shoulders. It’s easy to forget spots like your ears or the back of your neck, but they’re just as vulnerable.
Choose a sun cream that’s suitable for both sun exposure and water when you’re near that pool or beach. Water-resistant protection ensures you stay covered. Sun combined with water can intensify exposure, so it’s always better to be prepared.
5. Restore and nourish your skin
After a day in the sun or heat, your skin will benefit from some extra care. Using an after-sun product helps to soothe and replenish moisture.
It’s also worth noting that going straight from intense heat into air conditioning can stress your skin. Sudden temperature changes can lead to dryness or sensitivity, so keeping your skin well moisturised helps it cope better.
Natural oils can be especially effective at the end of the day. Coconut oil is a great option, but there are also specially blended oils that are designed to hydrate, calm, and support the skin after sun exposure or dehydration caused by heat and air conditioning.
I use a range of beautiful oil-based skincare products from LuvMyOil, which are ideal for keeping your skin nourished throughout the summer. If your skin is feeling dry or tight, or just needs a little extra care, these products can really help restore balance and make it feel so beautifully soft. Find out more about them here on my blog post: Introducing Luv My Oil
And there’s a great offer available – put a sample bottle in your basket, then add a full-sized one to your order. Use the code BNBR at checkout, and you’ll get the sample free of charge!
With a little extra attention – regular exfoliation, proper hydration, sun protection, and consistent moisturising – you can keep your skin looking and feeling its best, even during the hottest days.
