7 Summer Body Care Essentials to Keep Your Skin Glowing All Season

Summer is the season of sunshine, vacations, and outdoor adventures. But while we're soaking up all the good vibes, our skin often endures the brunt of sun exposure, humidity, and increased sweating.

Extra care keeps your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant during these hot months. Here's how to keep your skin glowing all season.

1. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable summer essential. The sun's UV rays are strongest in the summer, making daily SPF protection a must for your face and body. Without it, prolonged sun exposure leads to sunburn, premature ageing, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Choose a body sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, such as A'PIEU Pure Block Waterproof Sun Cream. If you are swimming or sweating, use a water-resistant one. Look for broad-spectrum protection to shield UVA and UVB rays.

2. Lightweight, hydrating moisturiser

Australia's summer heat and humidity make heavy creams feel sticky and uncomfortable. But skipping moisturiser isn't an option since your skin needs hydration to stay healthy. Switch to a lightweight, gel-based moisturiser, such as Korean DERMA:B Daily Moisture Body Lotion, which delivers moisture without feeling heavy.

For cooling and soothing hydration, opt for aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or cucumber extract. These ingredients replenish moisture lost through sweating, keeping your skin soft and refreshed.

3. Exfoliating scrub for smooth, radiant skin

Sweat, sunscreen, and the buildup of dead skin cells leave your skin feeling dull and rough during summer. A body scrub is a great way to exfoliate and reveal smoother, brighter skin. Remember to exfoliate gently, especially if you've had sun exposure, as your skin may be more sensitive.

Choose a scrub with nourishing oils or gentle physical exfoliants like sugar, sea salt, or coffee grounds. To avoid irritation, exfoliate once or twice a week.

4. Refreshing body mist for a cooling boost

There's nothing like a refreshing mist to cool you down on a hot day. Body mists cool and hydrate your skin while leaving you smelling fresh all day long. Look for mists that contain aloe vera or cucumber for an extra cooling effect.

Spritzing a cooling mist, such as Korean BOUQUET GARNI Body Mist, throughout the day instantly revives tired skin and quickly boosts hydration. Keep it in your bag or beach tote for a quick, refreshing pick-me-up whenever needed.

5. After-sun care: soothing aloe vera gel

After a day in the sun, your skin can feel dry, tight, or even sunburned. A soothing after-sun gel, such as HOLIKA HOLIKA Aloe 99% Soothing Gel, calms and restores skin, reducing redness and adding back much-needed moisture.

Aloe vera gel is a classic choice as it's cooling, hydrating, and gentle on sensitive skin. You can even store it in the fridge for an extra-chilled effect. After-sun care is essential for helping your skin recover and can even prolong your tan if you want that sun-kissed glow.

6. Foot care: exfoliate and moisturise for sandal-ready feet

Summertime involves open-toe shoes and sandals, so your feet are exposed. Keeping your feet smooth and healthy requires a little extra TLC. Start with an exfoliating foot scrub to remove dead skin, followed by a rich foot cream to keep them soft.

For cracked heels, consider using a foot mask or balm, such as K-beauty KAHI Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm, at night and covering your feet with socks to lock in the moisture. You'll wake up with softer, more comfortable feet, ready for those summer beach walks.

7. Antiperspirant and deodorant: stay fresh

Summer heat often means more sweating, and staying fresh is a challenge. A good antiperspirant and deodorant combo keeps you dry and odour-free. Look for gentle formulas on the skin that are effective enough to last throughout the day.

If you're sensitive to conventional deodorants, try a natural alternative with baking soda, magnesium, or charcoal ingredients. These ingredients absorb sweat without irritating sensitive skin.

Final tips for glowing summer skin

While these summer body care essentials are great for keeping your skin healthy, hydration from the inside is just as important. Drinking water daily prevents your skin from drying out and keeps it looking fresh. Additionally, lightweight, breathable clothing minimises skin irritation and sweat buildup.