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When stepping outside immediately causes sweat to bead, skin to flush and your makeup to melt, it’s time to up your skincare game to combat the seemingly never-ending heat.

And if it feels like you’re in a tumble dry ‘high’ setting, the last thing you want are skincare products that make you feel greasier than a slip-and-slide. 

Sweating in the summer can increase oil production and decrease cell turnover, that in turn causes clogged pores and risk of acne. Overwashing in the summer can lead to the same problem, stripping down the skin’s protective barriers and stimulating more oil production.

In this summer skincare guide, we highlight a few key products designed to be lightweight while controlling oil production, protecting and hydrating your skin barrier, and enhancing some anti-aging benefits. It’s never too late to snag some skincare essentials that'll keep your complexion happy despite the soaring temperatures.

The Summer Skincare Heavy-Hitters

You may not need everything on this list, though we highly recommend a bare minimum of sunscreen and moisturizer (even if it doesn’t feel like you need one!). Here are a few products that’ll do most of the heavy lifting for your skin this summer.

Cleansers

When your skin is stressed from heat, humidity and sunscreen applications, the last thing it needs is a cleanser that strips it raw. Look for gentle, calming formulas that remove sweat and grime without leaving your face feeling stripped.

Soothing ingredients include ceramides, niacinamide and oatmeal, which can help restore skin barrier, calm irritation and act as natural anti-inflammatories. 

You can use salicylic acid in cleansers (commonly found in acne treatment options) if using a low concentration, and stagger out use during the week or keep it to evening-only use when your skin won’t be quite so sun-sensitive. 

Here are a few popular cleanser options for summer:

1. First Aid Beauty Ultra Gentle Cream-to-Foam Facial Cleanser

Price: $30 at Amazon

Best for: Combination, Dry, Oily and Sensitive skin

Why we chose it:

• Includes colloidal oatmeal, glycerin, aloe and allantoin active ingredients
• Cream-to-foam formula
• Sulfate, gluten and fragrance-free according to the company

One of my colleagues raves about First Aid Beauty products even though she has extremely delicate skin. It’s not uncommon for her to have immediate reactions to many products marketed towards those with sensitive skin. However, she’s recommended this brand to me multiple times thanks to its ingredient line up and how her skin feels after use.

2. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser for Oily Skin

Price: $15.97, was $18.99 at Amazon (16 oz.); $13.68 at Walmart (12 oz.)

Best for: Combination, Normal and Oily skin

Why we chose it:

• Includes ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide active ingredients
• Gel cleanser to foam
• Fragrance free, non-comedogenic and allergy-tested according to the company

CeraVe is a tried and true brand for many, with 4.8 stars and over 76,000 company ratings on Amazon. It’s also a great option without breaking your monthly budget, with a variety of size options depending on your routine. As one reviewer so aptly states, it’s a “holy grail cleanser…for oily and sensitive skin.”

Sunscreen 

A sunburn is a radiation burn and the inflammation is your body’s response to the ultraviolet ray damage to your skin cells. It’s not determined by the temperature - it’s the UV index that’ll get you. 

According to dermatologists, you should aim for a minimum SPF 30-50, with higher SPF ratings even more ideal if you’re planning to spend time outdoors. Look for water-resistant formulas that won't stream into your eyes during that exercise sweat session.

Whether you're team mineral or team chemical, there are plenty of broad-spectrum sunscreens that won't pill under makeup or leave a noticeable white cast.

• Mineral sunscreen: For those looking for a physical blocker or have skin sensitivities, a mineral option with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is a great choice. 
• Chemical sunscreen: For those who are outdoors, playing sports, sweating heavily or swimming, a chemical sunscreen may be the most practical choice.

READ More: Best sunscreen of 2026: Our top 10 picks (tested and reviewed)

Here’s some of our favorite options for children, sensitive skin and those who prefer mineral over chemical sunscreen protection options.

3. Coppertone WaterBabies Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Price: $8.88 at Amazon and Walmart

Best for: Normal skin

Type: Chemical | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: No | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (9%), Octisalate (4.5%), Octocrylene (9%) 

Why we chose it:

• UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection, water resistant up to 80 minutes
• Hypoallergenic, dermatologically tested and free of PABA, dyes, octinoxate and oxybenzone, according to the company

This was a suggestion from some of our readers, thanks to the Coppertone WaterBabies Sunscreen topping the charts from such illustrious testers like Consumer Reports.

It touts a gentle, hypoallergenic formula for delicate and sensitive skin, broad spectrum protection and free from reef-destructive ingredients like octinoxate and oxybenzone.

4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen for Face, SPF 60

Price: $20.99 at Amazon

Best for: Oily and acne-prone skin

Type: Chemical | SPF: 60 | Reef Friendly: No | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (15%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (7%)

Why we chose it:

• Oil, fragrance, octinoxate and oxybenzone free
• Water-resistant up to 80 minutes
• Formulated for oily and acne-prone skin, allergy tested and paraben free according to the company
• Matte sunscreen formula for face
• Broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 60 protection

La Roche-Posay is an excellent brand to look into if you need products designed for sensitive skin and more mild ingredients. I had multiple colleagues rave about the La Roche-Posay sunscreens, including both mineral to chemical formulas. We selected the Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen thanks to its options for those struggling with oily and acne-prone skin in the summer.

5. Aveeno Baby Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Price: $13.18 at Amazon and Walmart

Best for: Dry and sensitive skin

Type: Mineral | SPF: 50 | Reef Friendly: Yes | Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide (21.6%) 

Why we chose it:

• Hypoallergenic, no parabens or phthalates, according to company
• Soothing ingredients, no alcohol, fragrance or essential oils
• Sweat- and water-resistant up to 80 minutes
• Protects against UVA/UVB rays
• Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation

Mild formulas designed for dry and sensitive skin, the Aveeno Baby Zinc Oxide Mineral Sunscreen is a great option for those who prefer to steer clear of chemical sunscreens thanks to skin conditions and want a reef-safe option.

Our testing: I’ve used the Aveeno mineral sunscreen for two summers now, especially when I know I'm going to be outside at the barn and riding in the beaming afternoon sunlight. It’s a great option for those who want the physical block without the heaviness that some mineral sunscreens come with, as I don’t find it nearly as drying as some other brands I’ve tested (including the La Roche-Posay mineral sunscreen). 

Vitamin C Serums 

Vitamin C serums are your antioxidant armor against environmental damage, especially when combined with proper sunscreen application. These are the brightening powerhouses designed to help repair and protect against sun damage and early signs of aging.

According to studies, vitamin C serums can also help stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of sun, acne and age spots, and help even out skin tone by controlling sebum production thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Vitamin C serums can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it’s important to pair with sunscreen and evaluate the concentration levels. Lower concentration levels are ideal for those with sensitive skin, with the most effective average range between 10-20%.

READ More: Best vitamin C serums: Tested and reviewed

Below are some of my personal vitamin C serums that I’ve been using over the past year in a range of concentration levels depending on your skin suitability.

6. La Roche-Posay 12% Vitamin C Face Serum

Price: $44.99 at Amazon (Oil control), $28.67, was $44.99 at Amazon (All skin types)

Best for: Normal, Dry, Oily or Combination skin

Concentration: 12% | Active Ingredients: L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Salicylic Acid 

Why we chose it:

• Two serum options based on skin type needs
• 12% concentration is neither too low to see results, nor too high to irritate sensitive skin users
• Formulated with salicylic acid to help control oil production and exfoliate skin - best to use at night to avoid sunlight irritation
• Targets anti-aging, fine line and wrinkles

My results: I used the La Roche-Posay Vitamin C Serum heavily, especially in the fall and winter months last year, and saw great results. It has a silky texture - not quite a gel, and a little heavier than some of the watery serums on the market. It absorbs nicely - just be sure not to apply too much if you decide to wear it during the day, as it will cause your makeup to pill.

The one complaint I did have is that it oxidizes very quickly, so be sure to keep it refrigerated and don’t hesitate to use a good amount when applying it overnight because it doesn’t have the longest shelf life.

7. Naturium Vitamin C Complex Serum

Price: $14.69, was $20.99 at Amazon and Ulta

Best for: Acne Prone, Combination, Dry and Normal skin. Sensitive skin users should do a test patch first.

Concentration: 22% | Active Ingredients: Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Hyaluronic Acid 

Why we chose it:

• High concentration levels for those comfortable with vitamin C serums and most skin types
• Budget friendly
• Vegan, paraben and cruelty-free
• Best for: Most skin types

My daughter and I have used the Naturium brand before, and they have been quality products that won’t break your budget (especially the face wash). This Naturium Vitamin C Serum is a higher concentration level than the 12% in the La Roche-Posay option, so this is a great choice for those looking for a performance upgrade. 

Add in the hyaluronic acid for moisturizing, and you’ve got a solid ingredient list. Reviewers say the serum is highly effective, leaves the skin with a healthy glow and feeling hydrated without irritating super sensitive skin. But for those with very sensitive skin, we still might recommend using a lower concentration.

Lightweight Moisturizers 

Even when it feels like you're swimming through the humidity, your skin still needs hydration. When looking for the best lightweight moisturizer, check for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin and aloe. 

Based on our recent experience, gel-based formulas could be your best friend in the summer. The consistency is especially ideal for those with oily skin, and are usually water-based rather than oil-based.

Here’s a few popular lightweight moisturizers that will keep your skin hydrated (hopefully without the oily residue) during the heat wave.

8. COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Face Moisturizer

Price: $19.99, was $26 at Amazon; $21.90 at Ulta (3.52 oz.)

Best for: All skin types

Why we chose it:

• Made with snail mucin (for hydration and plumping), hyaluronic acid and betaine to strengthen skin barrier
• Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested according to the company
• Apply after serums and essences

Reviewers of the COSRX Snail Mucin Moisturizer find it very effective and hydrating, casting a ‘beautiful glow’ after use. Many others mentioned that even with sensitive skin they saw great results, though a few mentioned experiencing some breakouts after use. 

One reviewer mentioned that when combined with retinol and vitamin C, they saw major improvement with texture and dark spots as well.

9. BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream

Price: $13.99, was $14.99 at Amazon

Best for: Dry, Normal and Combination skin

Why we chose it:

• Ingredient list including niacinamide, green tea and ceramides
• Fragrance and oil-free, alcohol-free, vegan and dermatologist approved, according to the company
• Gel-cream texture, quick absorption

We selected this BYOMA Gel Cream thanks to its ultra-hydrating properties (especially for those suffering from dry skin), its pH balanced formula claim (according to the company), and moisturizing properties that target visible redness.

A co-worker swears by the BYOMA brand, including the sunscreen options. Other customer reviews rave about its hydration. Many called it “lightweight”, non-sticky so it didn’t leave behind any unpleasant residue, and a long-lasting staple.

Retinol

While fall and winter are the best times for retinol use, you may still want to consider summer usage with the proper precautions. 

Retinol and AHA’s (alpha-hydroxy acids) can increase your sun sensitivity, which is why pairing retinol with a good sunscreen is imperative. We recommend using retinol overnight and cleansing your skin properly in the morning.

So why use it? Retinol can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, stimulate collagen production and cell turnover, unclog pores and fade dark spots. But it comes with a list of potential side effects, especially if you have sensitive skin, like skin irritation and redness.

READ More: A complete beginner’s guide to retinol

Here is one of the retinols I’ve been using this summer, and it’s been a great addition to my skincare regimen. 

10. innisfree Retinol Cica Serum with Salicylic Acid

Price: $34, was $37 at Amazon; $37 at Innisfree.com

Best for: Acne Prone, Combination, Dry, Normal, Sensitive and Oily

Concentration: 0.015% | Ingredients: Glycerin, Niacinamide, Allantoin, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide, Salicylic Acid

Why we chose it:

• Great beginner-friendly Korean retinol serum
• Water-based formula, skin-soothing ingredients
• Designed for daily use
• Formulated without alcohols, fragrance, gluten, paraben, phthalates, and sulfates according to the company

My results: I have combination skin, and when I first started using this serum, I thankfully saw very very little retinol purging. A couple of spots (largely hormonal) that disappeared quickly and nothing further. This is a very gentle beginner-friendly option with low retinol concentrations. 

However, I’m still noticing results - my skin feels smoother the next morning, fewer clogged pores and the small lines around my eyes and lips have seen some noticeable (to me) improvements. I do need to use a good cleanser in the morning, as there is some shiny residue left behind from the retinol serum.

And since I do spend a lot of time outdoors, I’ve been much more proactive about applying sunscreen as well, so that I don’t get sun sensitivity after retinol use. My recent combination has been the Innisfree retinol + Supergoop Unseen gel sunscreen.

Hot Weather Application And Use Tips

Not all products are created equal, and there’s no use overwhelming your skin when it’s already calling code red during the summer heat.

We suggest starting with one product at a time to see how your skin reacts to certain ingredients and applications before slowly adding in more products. There’s no need to jump into a five or 10-step routine when it’ll just slide off your skin anyways. In extreme heat, less is more.

1. Morning routine:

• Cleanse and dry your skin. 
• If you choose, apply Vitamin C serum. Try to wait 10 minutes before the next step.
• Follow with lightweight moisturizer.
• Finish with sunscreen and reapply every two hours while outside, or more often if sweating.

2. Evening routine:

• Consider a double cleanse (combination oil balm and face wash) if you wear heavy water-resistant sunscreen or makeup during the day.
• If you start retinol, limit use to 1-2 times per week before gradually increasing the amount. Apply to completely dry skin; we suggest waiting 20 minutes after cleansing if possible.

Application tip: You do not have to apply vitamin C serums, salicylic acid or retinol to your entire face. Spot treatment in problem areas is perfectly acceptable!

Heat Wave Protection Hacks

After you purchase your products, here are a few product and application tips during the hottest seasons.

1. Store your vitamin C serums and moisturizers in the refrigerator or a small beauty fridge for an extra cooling effect. It also helps extend the life of the vitamin C serums from excessive oxidation due to sunlight and heat.
2. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside to let it fully absorb.
3. Layer products thinnest to thickest consistency. The closer you can apply serums to your skin in the layering process, the better.
4. If you're sweating heavily, blot (don't rub) and reapply sunscreen.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few tips, tricks and products we’ve been testing out this season. There’s no hard and fast rule that you must use a ton of products in your skincare lineup, but stick to a routine that your skin responds to. 

Be sure to let us know your favorite summer skincare products, we’d love to hear from you!

Price accurate and item in stock at time of publish.