5 Skincare Swaps to Make for Spring and Summer

Words by Anna Gosling

The transition to spring and summer signals a new mood in beauty – namely that it’s time to consider a seasonal reset for your skincare routine. “As we enter the warmer months, it’s time to make a few swaps to keep your skin comfortable and protected,” advises Dr Christine Hall, GP and aesthetic physician. From breathable textures to glow-enhancing treatments, we’ve unpacked the key changes to make to keep skin supported and revitalised for the season ahead.

In: Exfoliating Cleansers

Out: Cream-based cleansers

Warmer weather can mean a welcome reprieve from dry winter skin, but that doesn’t necessarily translate to better skin. “Higher humidity and temperatures in the warmer months mean skin naturally produces more oil,” explains Jon Rummins, global head of education at Eve Lom. If you’re prone to an oilier complexion come summer, then take Rummins’ advice and opt for “gentle exfoliation and pore-refining steps to maintain clarity”.

Noble Panacea’s Elemental Cleansing Balm & Exfoliating Refiner buffs away winter dullness while keeping skin balanced. Low-level exfoliating acids help to keep pores clear as the balm lifts away sweat, SPF and excess sebum. If your skin leans particularly sensitive or dry, consider an acid-free formula like Eve Lom’s Cleanser, which comes with a muslin cloth for manual exfoliation.

Remember, it’s essential to follow exfoliation with SPF in spring and summer to help limit potential irritation and UV sensitivity.

In: Lightweight Hydrating Formulas

Out: Thick, rich textures

Seasonal layering isn’t just for your wardrobe; it applies to your skincare too. “In winter, we’re often layering rich creams, balms and oils to boost the skin’s moisture levels,” says Michaella Bolder, facialist and skincare expert. “When it comes to spring and summer, it’s about switching to lighter, more breathable formulas.”

The occlusive formulations that worked wonders in winter can start to feel heavy, leading to excess shine, product build-up or sliding make-up. Look to gel- and water-based serums and moisturisers that hydrate without heaviness.

Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Face Cream Light is a fast-absorbing formula that layers seamlessly with SPF and make-up without pilling. Plus, calming actives help to soothe any redness or irritation triggered by increased sun exposure. Oilier skin types need an extra line of defence against congestion and breakouts. Try Murad’s Clarifying Oil-Free Water Gel.

In: Amped-Up Protection

Out: Super strong actives

Powerful actives such as retinoids are a brilliant skincare step, but they can increase the skin’s sensitivity to heat and UV. For a seasonal switch, follow this advice from Axa Toyloy-Ashi, training manager at Tatcha: “Summer is the season to focus on antioxidants that defend, brighten and support the skin.”

Vitamin E is a great choice, since it helps to neutralise free radicals and reinforce the skin’s natural defences. Find it in Neuraé’s Harmonie The Serum. Another superstar antioxidant is vitamin C which not only helps to brighten skin but also boosts SPF efficacy too. Try Omorovicza’s Daily Vitamin C.

In: Multi-Tasking SPF

Out: Single-use sun protection

While SPF is a year-round commitment, some of us may be guilty of becoming a little lax during the colder seasons. But during spring and summer a single application won’t cut it. “SPF should be reapplied every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors or sweating,” advises Dr Hall. Multiple applications mean formula matters more than ever, so opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic options.

Enter Tatcha’s The Milky Sunscreen SPF 50, which has been designed for seamless reapplication without disrupting the skin. In fact, Vitamin E and ectoin help hydrate and protect the skin barrier, while Okinawa aloe works to reduce the appearance of dark spots and redness caused by UV exposure. A true skincare–sun-protection hybrid. These days, it’s even possible to reapply SPF without having to redo your make-up thanks to mist formulas such as Skin Cycles’ Lumina Mist SPF 50 – no rubbing required.

In: Radiance-Boosting Treatments

Out: Recovery-heavy procedures

The right treatments can be just the boost skin needs – but come summer, a lighter touch is key. “The skin is naturally more reactive and prone to pigmentation with sun exposure,” explains Dr Marwa Ali, aesthetic doctor and expert in cosmetic dermatology. “It becomes less about intensity and more about support – treatments with minimal downtime, done consistently, tend to deliver a more stable and refined result over time.” It’s worth scaling back on deep chemical peels and microneedling in favour of gentler, radiance-enhancing options.

For a lit-from-within glow that doesn’t compromise on resilience, try Dr Ali’s Korean Glass Skin Facial. Combining RedTouch Pro laser, LDM ultrasound and medical-grade Dermalux MD LED therapy, it works on a cellular level to calm inflammation and boost hydration. The result? Clearer, smoother, more luminous skin.