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There’s nothing better than glowing, radiant skin in the summer—except achieving it safely. With stronger UV rays, more time outdoors, and the temptation to “tan,” summer can be one of the riskiest times for your skin. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your glow. Here are safe, dermatologist-approved tips to help you shine this summer—without the burn. 

1. Ditch the Tan, Keep the Glow 

Skip tanning beds and hours in the sun. Instead, opt for a high-quality self-tanner or gradual glow moisturizer. These give your skin a sun-kissed look without exposing it to damaging UV rays that accelerate aging and increase your risk of skin cancer. 

2. Exfoliate (Gently!) 

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and enhances the absorption of your skincare products. In the summer, try a gentle chemical exfoliant with ingredients like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) 2–3 times a week to keep your skin smooth and bright. 

3. Hydrate from the Inside and Out 

Glowing skin starts with hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and use a lightweight, hydrating serum or moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These lock in moisture without weighing your skin down. 

4. Boost Your Radiance with Vitamin C 

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects against sun-induced damage and helps even out skin tone. Incorporating a vitamin C serum into your morning routine can help your skin look brighter and more radiant. 

5. Always Wear Sunscreen 

If you’re looking for summer glow without the damage, daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and don’t forget commonly missed spots like your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet. Reapply every two hours when outdoors. 

6. Add a Dewy Finish with Makeup 

A glow doesn’t always have to come from your skincare alone. A touch of dewy or illuminating makeup—like a light-reflecting primer or bronzing highlighter—can give your skin a radiant look without risking damage. 

Glowing skin is healthy skin. Focus on hydration, protection, and gentle skincare, and you’ll enjoy a radiant summer complexion without the risk of sunburn or long-term damage. 

Summer calls for sunshine, vacations, and a few important updates to your morning skincare routine. Warmer temperatures and increased sun exposure can lead to clogged pores, dehydration, and sun damage if your skincare isn’t up to the task. Here’s how to build the ultimate summer morning routine to protect, nourish, and glow all season long. 

1. Start with a Gentle Cleanser 

In the summer, your skin may produce more oil and sweat, so a gentle, non-stripping cleanser is key to keeping your skin clean without drying it out. Look for gel-based or foaming cleansers that remove buildup without disrupting your skin barrier. 

2. Hydrate with a Lightweight Serum 

Serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C are perfect for summer. Hyaluronic acid keeps your skin plump and hydrated without heaviness, while vitamin C helps brighten and protect against environmental damage. Niacinamide can help regulate oil and improve skin texture—ideal in humid weather. 

3. Moisturize (Even If You’re Oily!) 

Even in summer, your skin still needs moisture. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer or gel-cream that hydrates without feeling greasy. Skipping this step can actually lead to more oil production, so don’t leave it out! 

4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen 

Sunscreen is the most important part of your summer skincare routine. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours if you’re spending time outdoors. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are great for sensitive or acne-prone skin. 

5. Extra Protection: Hats & Shade 

While not a skincare product, don’t forget the added benefits of wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and finding shade during peak sun hours. Your skin will thank you in the long run. 

Pro Tip: Keep It Simple 

Increased heat and humidity can cause your skin to react to heavy or layered products. Stick to the essentials: cleanse, treat, hydrate, protect. Fewer, targeted products will help keep your skin balanced and summer-ready.