HIGH SUMMER calls for laid-back days and pared-back beauty, but not at the expense of a luminous complexion, healthy and hydrated hair and smooth skin from head to toe.
Here, three industry experts share their skincare, haircare and self-tanning advice for creating a summer beauty routine that works smarter, not harder.
Related: How do you apply self-tan? Follow this beginner-friendly, expert-approved guide
1. Strengthen your skin barrier
While it might seem counterintuitive, your complexion can suffer from dehydration in the warmer months, too. “Humidity, artificial cooling and UV exposure can impact the skin barrier which means, regardless of the season, moisturising is essential,” says L’Oréal medical relations manager Rachel McAdam. She explains that a resilient barrier “is essential in keeping the skin healthy and hydrated as it ‘locks’ in moisture within the epidermis [while] helping keep irritants out”.
Another reason to ensure its integrity? “A healthy skin barrier also contributes to the skin’s luminosity,” she says. But when the weather is hot and calming creams can feel cloying, it’s time to update the products you use. “Tailor the richness of the formula accordingly,” McAdam advises. “Lighter formulations in the warmer months [will] ensure the skin is still receiving essential support.” She suggests employing this “golden trio” of ingredients: humectants, such as hyaluronic acid, which hold water in the epidermis for a plumped-up glow; lipids for barrier support, including ceramides and shea butter; occlusives to provide a protective layer.
Consider a skin-strengthening yet lightweight serum, such as Lancôme Génefique Ultimate, from $150, and to speedily improve an impaired barrier, turn to SkinCeuticals Epidermal Repair, $129.
2. Switch to a summer scent
“If you’re someone who gravitates toward richer, heavier fragrances like woods or spices, then a change could be refreshing,” says Nick Smart, the owner and director of Agence de Parfum and Libertine Parfumerie. “For summer 2025, it’s all about fragrances that embrace nature and elevate the everyday.”
Smart says green, herbal scents — think cooling mint, basil and earthy fig leaves — are making a comeback and feel right for hot days. He also cites grown-up aquatics, “with touches of salty ambergris or seaweed for that sophisticated, ocean breeze feel” as another fresh pick. Creed’s Millésime Impérial, $369, combines sea salt with citrus and marine notes to evoke seaside Sicily — an ideal and orange blossom, capturing the warmth of a beachside holiday.” Finally, citrussy scents make a refreshing change. “This summer, we’re talking exotic fruits like yuzu and blood orange, paired with saffron, pepper or ginger for an extra kick,” says Smart.
However, there’s no need to overhaul your entire collection — maybe just lighten things up a little. Smart suggests dialling down your regular perfume for summer vacations by switching to less concentrated options, such as an Eau de Toilette or Eau de Cologne. “These have a lighter blend of essential oils, which means they’ll still give you that fragrant lift, but in a more subtle way that’s perfect for the heat,” he concludes.
3. Beach-proof your lengths
Keep holiday hair in check with a few simple steps designed to protect and nourish fried strands. Before you dive into the sea or pool, “Start by rinsing your hair with fresh water”, says hair stylist and founder of Her on Oxford salon, Faye Redfern. “Hair acts like a sponge, so if it’s already saturated with fresh water, it will absorb less chlorinated pool water or salty seawater.”
She continues: “This simple step minimises the drying and weakening effects of chlorine and salt, which can strip hair of its natural oils, fade colour and cause breakage.” Redfern also advocates for the liberal use of a leave-in conditioner, such Wella Ultimate Repair Protect Leave-In, $60, or a lightweight oil like coconut or argan, when you’re beach bound. “This adds an extra layer of protection, locking in moisture and creating a barrier against salt, chlorine and UV rays.” Finally, she suggests a loose braid or low bun can help prevent tangles and breakage while reducing sun exposure and insists on a wide-brimmed hat as an essential extra layer against dryness and colour fade.
4. Be on trend with self-tan
Thanks to the new, fast-developing formulas, modern self-tanners look more natural than ever. “With the launch of our Isle of Paradise Express Mousse [$46], we’ve seen a trend in tri-tone tans,” explains Isle of Paradise founder and tanning expert Jules Von Hep. “Legs [are] tanned with the express solution first, prior to [application on] the top half of the body. The torso, arms and back are then ‘tanned’ for 30-60 minutes [followed by] the face for half-an-hour after that,” he says. “The final result is a totally tailored, three-shade tan with the face a natural, sun-kissed glow, down to the legs finishing in a subtle, deeper shade of bronze.”
Von Hep believes that more advanced application techniques are also key to the new faux glow. “With simple tricks, like moisturising hands pre- and post-tan application, and the creation of tanning tools, such as Isle of Paradise Shape and Glow Blending Brush [$29], a streaky, patchy tan is looking very 2019!” For effective, regular self-tanning, he advises: “Exfoliate your body twice a week to lightly remove a layer of tan each time.” Try an oil-free option such as Lillian Muir Freddo Espresso Transforming Body Scrub, $137, for a fresh finish.
5. Upweight antioxidants
They’re the free radical scavengers that can help protect your complexion from environmental aggressors such as pollution and UV damage. “An antioxidant is always a great skincare ingredient in our daily routine, as we are exposed to free radicals from many sources in our day-to-day life,” says McAdam. And while antioxidants aren’t enough to address the impact of UV rays alone, they can support a healthy skincare regimen.
“The ideal routine could include your favourite antioxidant serum, such as ascorbic acid, with your SPF 50+ formula on top,” McAdam advises. We like La Roche Posay Vitamin C 10 Brightening Serum, $75. A diet high in antioxidants may also be helpful and, as plants are a rich source, choosing a variety of summer fruits and vegetables is a smart choice.
Note that, “While naturally occurring antioxidants in a balanced diet are wonderful for general health, they are nowhere near enough to counteract the impacts of UV radiation,” warns McAdam. “A healthy balanced diet, rich in antioxidants, has been shown to improve skin health — but not UV protection.” So, incorporate a rainbow of plant-based options — but never skimp on the sunscreen.
6. Meet SPF minimums
“It only takes 10 minutes of sun exposure to start to incur damage to the skin,” warns McAdam, adding that both UVA and UVB rays can cause harm. “An SPF 50 or 50+ sunscreen is tested to mean it takes at least 50 times longer to cause sunburn (UVB damage), which is why I would opt for SPF50+, as long as it is applied correctly and as directed,” she says.
And while you may already be using yours religiously every day, regardless of the weather, you might not be applying enough. “A good rule of thumb is to use the teaspoon method,” advises McAdam. “A teaspoon of sunscreen to each arm, leg, front and back of torso and one teaspoon for the face and neck area,” she says, adding that a teaspoon is around 6ml — likely more than you’re currently using. Then remind yourself to top up. “The TGA recommends reapplication every two hours, but sunscreen should also be reapplied after swimming or water sports,” she says.
And remember her expert advice: “Sun protection doesn’t stop at sunscreen — remember to seek shade, wear a hat [and] protective clothing and eyewear.”
7. Bronze up your makeup
Dial down your regular glam for off-duty days with a little prep work. A face-specific fake tan is the ideal holiday companion, building a safe glow without the need for layers of makeup. “Keep your face topped up every other day using Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Face Drops [$46] — the face fades quicker than the body due to exfoliating skincare and cleansing routines,” says Von Hep. “Even if the tan on your body is fading, your face can remain glowy throughout the week.” He adds that staying hydrated is key to a radiant look, which takes a little extra work in the summer months thanks to the weather and those cheeky summer cocktails. “So, drink plenty of water and ensure you stay topped up on electrolytes so the skin — and tan — doesn’t dry out.”
The expert also suggests using an express tanner to contour your complexion. “Apply [a] mousse using makeup brushes to the outer brow, outer nose, jawline, upper eye lids and either side of the collar bone as part of a makeup routine,” he advises. “The contoured tan is applied a few hours before makeup, giving a contour that lasts for up to three days.” Think of it as makeup, made easy. Finally, enlist a liquid bronzer, such as Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Tinted Hue Drops, $58, as part of your holiday kit. Mix with moisturiser, foundation, body cream or wear alone for instant luminosity.