Prepping Skin for Summer
As the sun gets stronger and the days grow longer, it’s time to reassess skincare routines. Summer brings its own set of skin challenges—extra oil, sweat, dehydration, sun exposure, and sensitivity. With the right approach, these issues can be tackled effectively, helping skin remain clear, calm, and radiant throughout the hotter months.
Below, we explore the most common summer skin concerns and how to benefit from simple yet targeted adjustments to skincare, along with key ingredients and product types worth exploring in-store or online.
Combatting Excess Oil and Shine
Warmer weather triggers an increase in sebum production, especially in the T-zone. To manage this, a gentle foaming cleanser with ingredients like niacinamide can help regulate oil levels without stripping the skin. Those with oily or combination skin can opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers and gel-textured products that help maintain balance.
Key product picks:
- Cleansers with niacinamide or salicylic acid
- Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers
We recommend:
Preventing Breakouts
Breakouts can worsen in summer due to sweat, SPF build-up, and increased oil. A double cleansing routine in the evening helps clear impurities, while products containing BHA (salicylic acid) exfoliate inside the pores and reduce inflammation. Choosing non-pore-clogging sunscreens, ideally with a matte finish, also makes a difference.
Key product picks:
- Oil cleansers followed by gentle foaming cleansers
- Spot treatments with salicylic acid or tea tree oil
- Gel or mineral sunscreens labelled ‘non-comedogenic’
We recommend:
Shielding Skin from UV Damage
Sun damage is the number one cause of premature skin ageing and pigmentation. Daily application of broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential. Reapplication every two hours when outdoors helps maintain effectiveness. After-sun care with aloe vera or panthenol soothes any redness or irritation from sun exposure.
Key product picks:
- SPF 30 or higher facial sunscreens (mineral or chemical)
- After sun gels with aloe vera
- Moisturisers with antioxidants like vitamin E or green tea
We recommend:
Hydrating Skin from the Inside Out
Even oily skin can become dehydrated. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin-based serums replenish moisture levels, while face mists offer on-the-go relief. A water-rich diet further supports skin from within.
Key product picks:
- Serums with hyaluronic acid or polyglutamic acid
- Facial mists with rosewater or thermal spring water
- Hydrating sheet masks for weekly use
We recommend:
Minimising Hyperpigmentation
Sun exposure increases melanin production, worsening pigmentation and uneven tone. Daily SPF remains essential, and using vitamin C serums in the morning can brighten and protect. Azelaic acid and liquorice extract are also effective at evening out discolouration with continued use.
Key product picks:
- Vitamin C serums (L-ascorbic acid or magnesium ascorbyl phosphate)
- Targeted creams with azelaic acid or niacinamide
- Brightening night treatments with liquorice extract
We recommend:
Managing Heat Rash and Irritation
Heat rash, caused by blocked sweat ducts, is common during hot, humid days. Wearing breathable clothing and using cooling lotions such as calamine or menthol-based formulas can reduce discomfort. Fragrance-free body washes minimise irritation.
Key product picks:
- Calamine lotion
- Colloidal oatmeal creams
- Shower gels marked for sensitive skin and fragrance-free
We recommend:
Calming Sensitive Skin and Redness
Heat and UV rays can aggravate sensitive skin conditions. Barrier-repair creams with ceramides, panthenol, and madecassoside help restore resilience. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide are often better tolerated than chemical filters. Reducing strong actives during hotter spells is also wise.
Key product picks:
- Barrier creams with ceramides and panthenol
- Fragrance-free mineral sunscreens
- Skin-calming serums with centella asiatica (CICA)
We recommend:
Summer skincare doesn’t need to be complicated—but it should be seasonal. By adapting routines to suit the weather and changing skin needs, it becomes easier to protect against sun damage, prevent breakouts, and keep skin hydrated and comfortable.
Pharmacy staff can help by offering ingredient-focused advice, highlighting seasonal bundles, and guiding people to the most suitable options for their skin type.
Explore the full summer skincare range online or in-store for a selection of SPFs, hydrating serums, cleansers, and soothing treatments—all hand-picked to support skin through the summer months.
