Every summer, I turn to the same checklist: Dig those old shorts out of the back of my closet, remember to hydrate more, and (most importantly) switch my skin care routine. As a person with super sensitive skin, my daily lineup is pretty short—once I find a product I like, I tend to stick with it. But warmer temperatures bring with them a ton of new problems to consider, including chlorine, saltwater, sweat, and sunburns. And that means it’s time to shift away from the thick creams and ultra-hydrating serums I rely on during winter in favor of lighter, more soothing options that are gentle on my face and body.
A quick note about me: I’ve been a member of the sensitive skin club my entire life. I also deal with eczema, breakouts, and the occasional allergic reaction to new products (so fun). As a result, I often reach for lotions and potions that are fragrance-free and have shorter ingredient lists, which makes it easier to avoid potential irritants.
If your skin also goes through it in warmer months, then you might want to avoid or limit your use of ingredients that can make your skin more prone to sunburn, including retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (like glycolic acid), beta hydroxy acids (like salicylic acid), and benzoyl peroxide, Emily Milam, MD, board-certified dermatologist at NYU Langone Dermatologic Associates and assistant professor at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine, tells SELF. You may also want to avoid using scrubs on your face and body, which can be too harsh, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology.
In general, when it comes to your summer skin care routine, Dr. Milam recommends following the golden rule: “Keep things simple!” Below are the only seven items I need in my medicine cabinet to become the smoothest, glowiest version of myself all summer long. While my essentials may not work for you (because everyone’s skin is different), I’ve tested them for months—or years, in some cases—and they’re always my first line of defense when I need some relief.
1. SkinSmart Antimicrobial Facial Cleanser Spray
The key ingredient in this spray, hypochlorous acid, is an editor favorite for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. It’s gentle, soothing, and can be used to treat a whole host of conditions, including acne and dandruff, Dr. Zeichner tells SELF.
I use SkinSmart twice a day, after I wash my face but before I slather on my moisturizer. A few spritzes of this doesn’t just feel great, it also helps combat my heat- and sweat-related breakouts and can even make eczema patches feel less itchy. Pro tip: Invest in some mini bottles to toss in your tote bag for quick relief on the go (game-changer!).
2. Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream
In the summer, “it’s important to maintain adequate skin hydration without weighing down the outer skin layer,” Dr. Zeichner says. With its velvety texture, hydrating ingredients, and easy-to-use tube, Vanicream is my holy grail moisturizer when temperatures start to rise. A pea-sized amount is enough for my entire face and neck—plus, it sinks in quickly and layers well underneath the rest of my skin care and makeup.
3. Good Molecules Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Finding a good sunscreen for sensitive skin can feel impossible. I highly recommend this one from Good Molecules, which is broad spectrum (to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays) and rated SPF 30 (the minimum factor derms recommend to make sure you’re getting enough protection). It rubs in easily and contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump your skin.
