Like it or not the festive season is official nigh. Whether your plans this summer include binging twenty Netflix shows from start to finish or a beach getaway, we have all the must-know skincare tips that will keep your skin happy and healthy. It can all feel like a bit of a mission during this busy period, especially when packing light or adapting your routine on the go is a live issue. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know (and pack) to make looking after your skin a breeze, no matter where you may be in the world.
Here’s how to keep your glow very much intact this summer season.
Sunscreen
It just simply wouldn’t be a summer skincare blog if the first thing we told you to do wasn’t to take, apply, and reapply your sunscreen. Whether you’re lazing on the beach or skiing in the Swiss Alps, sunscreen is a must, but, it has to be said, especially if you’re staying in New Zealand. The Kiwi sun is no joke, and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is the single most important step in any summer skincare routine. Sunscreen shields your skin from premature ageing, pigmentation, and, most importantly, serious sun damage.
The trick? Consistent application and reapplication throughout the day, no matter where you are or what you’re doing.
Product Suggestion
Skinsmiths Daily Antioxidant Defence SPF30 is a lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection without feeling heavy or greasy. Perfect for layering under makeup or wearing solo, it’s a summer must-have. Simply keep it in your bag and reapply it every two hours for optimal protection, especially after swimming or sweating. This product also incorporates hyaluronic acid, so not only does it provide unmatched UVA and UVB protection, but it also provides hydration while doing it. Talk about a win-win!
For an extra boost of protection, don’t forget often-missed areas like the back of your hands, ears, and neck. If you’re out adventuring or just lounging by the pool, make this step your ultimate skin saviour.
Cleanse the day away
Cleansers can be one of those products that are seriously tempting to leave behind because they can verge on the bulkier side, but we encourage, no actually we demand that you don’t fall into this trap. You might think that swimming keeps the face clean but the reality is actually that it does the opposite. Between the salt residue, sunscreen and sweat, summer can leave your skin feeling a little overwhelmed by the end of the day…
A good cleanser is the foundation of every skincare routine no matter the time of year, removing impurities and prepping your skin for hydration. The goal is to find a cleanser that deeply cleanses without stripping away essential moisture because there is nothing worse than that dry, tight feeling you get from the wrong cleanser. This is even more important during the summer months after a day spent in the elements.
Product suggestion
The Skinsmiths Purifying Gel Cleanser is your perfect summer companion. It’s packed with soothing ingredients that clean without disrupting your skin barrier, making it perfect for summer’s highs and lows and is safe to use morning and night to reset your skin for the next adventure. It’s also conveniently packaged in a non-bulky bottle as far as cleansers go, making it the perfect option for those who are planning to be on the go these holidays.
Pro tip: Double cleansing at night can be a game-changer. Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and sunscreen, then follow with the Purifying Gel Cleanser for a deeper, fresher clean. Your skin will thank you, trust us on this one.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Long days in the sun and warmer temperatures can zap your skin of its moisture, leaving it dehydrated and lacklustre. That’s why you want to come prepared with a few good hydrating serums and moisturisers that can restore the plump radiant complexion you had when you left home. Whether it’s post-swim or pre-snooze, make hydration a priority in your routine.
Product suggestions
Skinsmiths Ultimate Renewal Serum is the kind of multi-tasking product you need in your summer skincare arsenal. Inspired by clinic-grade skincare, this plumping and lifting elixir is more than just another hydrating serum. It’s packed with advanced ingredients that work to hydrate, firm, and smooth your skin for a radiant summer glow. Harnessing the power of Argireline Peptides to boost elasticity and reduce wrinkles, Niacinamide to refine texture and even tone, and Sodium Hyaluronate to deeply hydrate, this serum is your summer skin hero, and talk about making the most of your luggage space.
Follow all your serums with a moisturiser to lock in all that hard work. The Skinsmiths Complete Recovery Moisturiser is the perfect product for the job, and it also works to repair and protect the skin barrier leading to an all-over younger-looking appearance.
Another summer skincare hack is to have a few Facial Masks on hand. These are the perfect quick pick-me-up after a long New Year's night or even just a moment of relaxation among the chaos. Take some time for yourself, put a podcast on, and sit back and relax while your skin enjoys a weekly dose of water-binding ingredients that will help to draw and lock in moisture you may have lost.
Polish and refresh
Between sunscreen build-up, sweat, and environmental exposure, your skin might need a little extra help staying smooth and clear which means exfoliation is key during this time of the year. The right exfoliant brightens, refines, and preps your skin to absorb all the goodness from your serums and moisturisers.
Product suggestion
Skinsmiths Resurfacing AHA/BHA Peel is a must have. With a combination of alpha and beta hydroxy acids, this product is a game changer for improving texture, and promoting that overall summer glow we all want. Use it around twice a week in the evening, and be extra diligent with your sunscreen the next day.
Bright eyes, full hearts
The festive season can be synonymous with late nights and early mornings. And as much as we all want to be 21 again, we may not bounce back as easily or quickly as we used to we’re afraid to report. This means you need to be armed with some good eye products to whip your undereye skin back into shape and have no one questioning whether or not you got your recommended eight hours the night prior. Because the under-eye area is often the first place to show signs of fatigue, keeping your eyes looking bright and refreshed may take a little bit of extra and targeted care.
Product suggestion
Skinsmiths PRO Collagen Eye Complex is a ceramide-enriched targeted eye treatment that is our answer to taking care of the delicate under-eye area, especially over the busy months. Formulated with a collagen-promoting mix of retinol, phyto-retinol, and vitamin C this product will firm and strengthen the skin around the eyes and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while it's at it.
Supplements to save the day
A topic that can divide the masses, many report their skin improves drastically over the summer, while others report their blemishes are worse than ever. If you’re someone who identifies with the second school of thought then try and get ahead of your breakouts by incorporating a supplement to support the skin.
Product suggestion
The Skinsmiths Blemish Defence Supplements is a powerhouse blend of vitamins, minerals and antioxidant extracts that support healthy skin. It's packed with skin-loving nutrients like zinc and vitamin C to support a clearer complexion. These handy capsules work to reduce inflammation and target blemishes from the inside out. They are the perfect product to take away, simply take one daily as part of your skincare routine and ward off any unwanted summer breakouts that might be looming.
Gua sha to the rescue
This ancient practice promotes lymphatic drainage, reduces puffiness, and helps define your facial contours, all while giving you a moment of calm amidst the holiday hustle. These come in handy, particularly after a night of a few too many bubbles which can cause inflammation in the face. Simply apply a moisturiser or face oil and watch the puffiness melt away.
Product suggestion
Skinsmiths Gua Sha is the perfect companion for your summer self-care. Made from high-quality stone, it’s designed to glide smoothly over your skin. It’s one of those things you don’t know you need until you get one, and then you won’t know how you lived without one.
Final thoughts
As the summer sun beckons and the festive season takes us all in its hot greasy grip, taking care of your skin doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With the right products in tow, you’ll have everything you need to feel your best while still making the most of everything the summer season has to offer, no compromises necessary.
