If there is one thing I take very seriously, it’s my skincare routine. But let me be completely honest with you—my summer routine looks vastly different from my winter one. When the humidity hits and the temperatures rise, the last thing I want is a heavy, ten-step routine melting off my face the second I step outside.
Over the years, I’ve perfected a streamlined, highly effective summer skincare routine that gives me that coveted “glass skin” glow without feeling heavy or greasy. It’s all about lightweight hydration, serious sun protection, and a few targeted actives.
Here is my exact, step-by-step summer skincare routine for glowing skin. You can find all of these products linked on my Amazon Storefront.
Step 1: A Gentle, Non-Stripping Cleanser
In the summer, I tend to get a bit more oily, but I still refuse to use harsh, stripping cleansers. I always start my morning with a gentle gel cleanser that removes overnight sweat and skincare residue without leaving my skin feeling tight.
I have been incredibly loyal to this hydrating gel cleanser. It foams up beautifully, feels cooling on the skin, and preps my face perfectly for the rest of my routine.
Step 2: The Holy Grail Vitamin C Serum
If you want glowing skin, Vitamin C is non-negotiable. It brightens, evens out skin tone, and provides crucial antioxidant protection against environmental stressors (which is especially important during the summer months).
I apply a few drops of this potent Vitamin C serum every single morning. It absorbs instantly and gives my skin an immediate, radiant boost. Pro tip: always apply Vitamin C to dry skin before your moisturizer!
Step 3: Lightweight, Gel-Based Hydration
Heavy creams are a massive no-go for me from June to August. Instead, I swap my thick winter moisturizers for lightweight, water-based gel creams. They flood the skin with hydration but sink in completely, leaving zero greasy residue behind.
My absolute favorite is this hyaluronic acid water gel. It genuinely feels like a cool drink of water for your face and sits beautifully under makeup.
Step 4: Serious Sun Protection (That Doesn’t Break Me Out)
We all know SPF is the most important step, but finding a sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white cast, doesn’t smell like a pool party, and doesn’t cause breakouts is a journey.
After trying dozens of formulas, I finally found the one. This invisible daily SPF 40 doubles as a makeup primer, leaves a gorgeous velvety finish, and never clogs my pores. I apply two full finger-lengths every morning, rain or shine.
Step 5: The “No-Makeup” Glow Enhancer
On days when I don’t want to wear foundation (which is most summer days), I rely on a glow-enhancing tint to blur imperfections and give me that sun-kissed, healthy look.
I mix a tiny drop of these bronzing glow drops into my sunscreen or apply them directly to my cheekbones. They provide the most stunning, natural-looking warmth without any glitter or shimmer.
Evening Routine Additions
My evening routine is very similar, but with two key differences:
Double Cleansing: I always start with a cleansing balm to melt away SPF and sweat before going in with my regular gel cleanser.
Gentle Exfoliation: Twice a week, I use a liquid BHA exfoliant to keep my pores clear and prevent summer breakouts.
What is your holy grail summer skincare product? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to check out my Amazon Storefront to shop my entire routine.
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