The Beauty Swaps You Need to Make for Summer
Your skin, much like your wardrobe, deserves a seasonal switch-up.
Shammi
Let’s be honest—summer is brilliant for picnics, beach days, and mangoes, but it can be a bit of a nightmare for our beauty routines. What worked wonders in winter can suddenly feel too heavy, greasy, or just plain wrong. That’s why a little seasonal switch-up can go a long way.
Think of this as your friendly nudge to give your beauty shelf a summer refresh. Here are the best beauty swaps to make when the temperature starts rising.
1. Swap Heavy Creams for Lightweight Gel Moisturisers
That rich, nourishing moisturiser that got you through winter? It’s time to swap it for something lighter. Summer skin doesn’t need extra weight—it needs hydration without the heaviness. Go for gel-based moisturisers that absorb quickly, keep your skin feeling cool, and won’t clog your pores. Bonus points if it contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera for that extra refreshing feel.
2. Trade in Full-Coverage Foundation for Tinted Moisturiser or Skin Tint
Heavy foundation in the heat can feel like wearing a jumper at the beach—uncomfortable and unnecessary. A tinted moisturiser or skin tint lets your skin breathe while evening out your tone. If you need more coverage, a dab of concealer where it’s needed does the trick without the cakiness.
3. Say Goodbye to Powder Blush, Hello to Cream or Tint Formulas
Powder products and sweat don’t get along. Cream blushes or cheek tints blend more naturally into the skin, giving you that “I’ve just come back from a walk on the beach” flush. They’re also much more forgiving if your skin is on the drier side from too much sun or travel.
4. Switch Matte Lipsticks for Glosses or Tinted Balms
Dry, matte lips in summer? No, thank you. Tinted lip balms or glosses are much more comfortable and forgiving during warmer months. They give you colour and hydration, and they’re low-maintenance enough to reapply without a mirror while sipping iced coffee.
5. Opt for Lighter, Water-Based SPF
You’re wearing sunscreen daily, right? Good. But if yours feels thick or greasy, it might be time to upgrade. Gel or water-based SPFs are ideal for summer—they’re lightweight, absorb quickly, and sit nicely under makeup without that dreaded white cast.
6. Ditch Hair Oils for Lightweight Serums or Leave-Ins
Heavy oils can make your hair feel flat and greasy in the heat. If you still want to fight frizz and keep your strands smooth, a lightweight serum or leave-in conditioner is your best bet. Look for something with UV protection if you’re out in the sun a lot—yes, your hair needs SPF too!
7. Replace Your Heavy Cleanser with a Gentle Foaming or Gel One
Your skin’s producing more oil in the summer, so you don’t want a heavy cream cleanser weighing it down. A gentle foaming or gel cleanser will keep things fresh without stripping your skin completely dry. And if you’re sweating more or wearing sunscreen daily (as you should), a double cleanse in the evening is a great idea.
8. Move Over Musky Fragrances—Make Way for Fresh, Citrusy Scents
Summer is the perfect time to lighten up your fragrance game. Swap out warm, woody, or musky perfumes for something zesty, floral, or aquatic. Think bergamot, orange blossom, neroli, or even a splash of coconut for that holiday feel—even if you're stuck at your desk.