Summer Skincare Routine: Protect & Hydrate Your Skin

The transition from cool, dry winters to the vibrant heat of summer calls for more than just a change in your wardrobe; it demands a strategic shift in your skincare. As the environment changes, so do your skin's needs. The heavy creams and rich oils that protected you from harsh winds can feel suffocating in the humidity, while increased sun exposure puts your skin on the defensive. Creating a dedicated summer skincare routine isn't about adding more steps; it's about making smarter, lighter choices that protect, hydrate, and balance your skin, ensuring you maintain a healthy glow all season long. This guide will walk you through a simple, effective five-step process to adapt your regimen for the warmer summer months.

☀️ Australia’s summer is beautiful — but harsh.

The long, sun-drenched days of an Australian summer are iconic, but the intense heat, high humidity, and powerful UV rays can create significant challenges for your skin. This dramatic environmental change increases oil production for many, leading to shine and congestion. In contrast, for others, the constant cycle of sun, saltwater, and air-conditioning can paradoxically cause dehydration and dry skin. The primary goal of any effective skincare routine during this time is to protect against cumulative sun damage from prolonged sun exposure. Without the proper care, the effects of the potent Australian sun—such as fine lines, pigmentation, and a compromised skin barrier—can become long-term concerns.

At Yaye, we lean on the wisdom of Indigenous bush medicine and the power of native botanicals to help your skin thrive, even in extreme heat. By adapting your daily habits, you can keep your skin radiant, balanced, and resilient all season long.

💧 Step 1: Cleanse Gently (But Thoroughly)

During summer, your skin accumulates more sweat, sunscreen, sebum, and environmental pollutants, making a thorough cleanse non-negotiable. However, the goal is to remove impurities without stripping the skin's protective barrier. Over-cleansing with harsh soaps can disrupt your skin's natural moisture balance, leading to irritation and rebound oiliness.

For a truly deep clean that respects your skin, consider the double cleansing method, especially in the evenings. Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve stubborn, oil-soluble products like sunscreen and makeup. Follow up with a gentle, water-based cleanser, such as a foaming cleanser, to wash away any remaining residue. This two-step process effectively prevents clogged pores and breakouts without leaving your skin feeling tight or squeaky clean. Tailor your choice of skincare products to your skin type; those with sensitive skin should opt for fragrance-free, soap-free formulas to avoid inflammation.

👉 Try: Yaye Lemongrass & Lime Hand & Body Wash—a fresh, lightweight, and naturally uplifting formula perfect for your second cleanse.

🌿 Step 2: Exfoliate Weekly for Smooth, Glowing Skin

The combination of sweat and multiple layers of sunscreen is a perfect recipe for congestion and dullness. Exfoliating one to two times per week is essential for sloughing away dead skin cells, clearing clogged pores, and revealing a smoother, brighter complexion. This step ensures that your hydrating products can penetrate more effectively.

However, it's crucial to be gentle, as your skin can be more sensitive during summer due to increased sun exposure. Avoid harsh, abrasive scrubs that can cause micro-tears and weaken the skin barrier. Instead, opt for a scrub that combines gentle physical exfoliants with nourishing oils. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, incorporating exfoliating skincare products containing salicylic acid can be particularly beneficial. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve the debris that leads to breakouts.

👉 Recommended: Yaye Body Scrub — designed to soften and refresh without irritation, leaving you with glowing skin.

🌸 Step 3: Lock in Moisture with Lightweight Oils

It may seem counterintuitive to add oil to your skin in hot, humid weather, but it’s one of the best ways to combat summer dehydration. Heavy, rich creams can feel occlusive, but lightweight botanical oils absorb quickly to hydrate and nourish deeply. Many people experience surface oiliness but underlying dehydration, which is a sign of an imbalanced skin barrier. This can lead to dry skin that feels tight and uncomfortable.

To combat this, look for products containing powerful humectants, and, for instance, apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin before your oil can work its wonders. Hyaluronic acid is a moisture magnet, drawing water into the skin, while the oil on top seals it all in. This helps restore the skin’s water-oil balance, keeping it plump and comfortable without any greasy residue.

Yaye’s Red Ochre Face & Body Oil hydrates without residue and delivers powerful antioxidants from Tomato Seed Oil, Native Sandalwood, and Safflower Oil. Perfect for sun-exposed skin that needs comfort and nourishment.

👉 Pro tip: Apply to damp skin, ideally after a hyaluronic acid serum, to seal in maximum hydration.

🧴 Step 4: Sunscreen, Every Single Day

No summer skincare routine is complete without the most critical step: daily sun protection. The sun’s UV rays are the leading cause of premature aging and, more importantly, can lead to severe long-term sun damage. Consumer focus on this essential step is rightly growing, with Google Trends data showing peak search interest for 'Summer Sunscreen' at the start of the season.

For adequate protection, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher. "Broad-spectrum" means it protects you from both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Despite this, recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals that between November 2023 and February 2024, only about 38.1% of Australians aged 15 and over reported using sunscreen on most days. Make it a non-negotiable part of your daily skincare routine. Apply it generously as the last step in your routine, and reapply every 2 hours, or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating.

Sun protection prevents:

• Premature ageing
• Dark spots and pigmentation
• Dryness and inflammation
• Long-term cellular damage

(And yes—sunscreen always goes on after your moisturiser or oil.)

🌞 Step 5: Hydrate from the Inside Out

Truly glowing skin starts from within. Topical products are essential, but internal hydration is the foundation of a healthy complexion. Dehydration can make your skin look dull, accentuate fine lines, and impair its natural barrier function.

To boost your skin’s hydration levels, make sure you are:

• Drinking plenty of water regularly throughout the day.
• Replenishing electrolytes with coconut water or a supplement after intense sweating or exercise.
• Eating water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, celery, and berries. These foods also often contain antioxidants like Vitamin C, which helps your skin fight free radical damage from sun exposure.

Keeping a hydrating mist in your bag is also an excellent bonus for quick, cooling refreshes on the go.

🌺 The Yaye Glow Ritual

To maintain soft, radiant, summer-ready skin, follow this simple and effective ritual inspired by the resilience of Central Australian desert botanicals and powered by Indigenous knowledge. This five-step skincare routine is designed to keep your skin healthy in the most challenging conditions.

• Cleanse with Lemongrass & Lime Body Wash
• Exfoliate with Berrigan Bush Body Scrub
• Hydrate with Red Ochre Face & Body Oil
• Layer daily SPF for ultimate sun protection
• Keep water close by throughout the day

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“My skin has never felt this soft in summer!” — Emma, NT “I switched to the Red Ochre Oil a few weeks ago and wow — my skin drinks it up. No greasiness, just a gorgeous glow that lasts all day. Perfect for Darwin humidity!”

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“The only products that stop my skin drying out.” — Jayde, SA “Every summer, my skin flakes no matter what I use. Yaye’s scrub-and-oil combo is the first routine that’s actually worked. My legs and arms look so smooth!”

1. What is the best skincare routine for the Australian summer?

The ideal summer skincare routine for Australia focuses on protection and lightweight hydration. It should include a gentle double cleanse at night, weekly exfoliation to prevent congestion, a lightweight hydrator like a hyaluronic acid serum followed by a non-comedogenic oil, and, most importantly, daily application of broad-spectrum SPF 30+ for essential sun protection.

2. Should I switch my moisturiser in summer?

Yes, absolutely. As humidity and oil production increase, the rich, heavy creams that served you well in winter can feel suffocating and lead to clogged pores. This product category is crucial, with face creams and moisturisers accounting for nearly 40% of all skincare sales. In summer, switch to lighter formulas such as body oils, gels, or lotions that absorb quickly and support the skin barrier without feeling heavy.

3. How often should I exfoliate in summer?

For most skin types, exfoliating 1–2 times per week is sufficient. While the Australian summer can lead to more build-up from sweat and sunscreen, over-exfoliating can damage the skin barrier, cause irritation, and increase sun sensitivity. Listen to your skin and adjust based on your specific skin type.

4. Is body oil too heavy for hot weather?

Not at all. Modern, high-quality botanical oils, like Yaye’s Red Ochre Face & Body Oil, are formulated to be lightweight and fast-absorbing. They are excellent at sealing in moisture to prevent dehydration from the sun and heat, helping to balance your skin's oil production without making your skin feel greasy.

5. Can I apply sunscreen over body oil?

Yes. This is the correct order of application. Apply your body oil first to clean, damp skin, and let it absorb for a minute or two. Then, layer your broad-spectrum sunscreen generously over the top. The oil hydrates the skin, while the sunscreen sits on the surface to provide sun protection.

6. Why does my skin feel drier in summer?

This is a common issue. Even if you feel oily, your skin can be dehydrated. Factors like intense heat, prolonged sun exposure, saltwater, chlorine from pools, and constant air-conditioning all draw moisture from your skin, leading to transepidermal water loss and dry, tight skin.

7. What ingredients should I look for in summer skincare?

Look for lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid and nourishing botanicals like Safflower Oil and Sandalwood. Potent antioxidants, especially Vitamin C, are crucial for fighting free radical damage from UV rays. For those with oily skin, ingredients like salicylic acid can help manage breakouts and clogged pores.

8. How do I stop my skin from looking shiny in humidity?

Managing shine is about balance, not stripping. Start with a proper cleansing routine (like a double cleanse) to manage excess oil. Avoid heavy creams and instead use lightweight skincare products like a hyaluronic acid serum and a fast-absorbing oil. Properly hydrated skin is less likely to overproduce oil in response to dehydration.

9. Can I still use body scrub if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, but with caution. If you have sensitive skin, choose gentle exfoliating products. Look for natural scrubs with fine, smooth particles and nourishing ingredients, and avoid those with harsh microbeads or sharp-edged abrasives. Always patch-test a new product and limit exfoliation to once a week.

10. Do I need a different routine for face and body?

Yes. The skin on your face is generally thinner and more delicate than the skin on your body, and it has more oil glands. Facial skincare often requires targeted ingredients like Vitamin C serums and specific moisturisers tailored to your skin type (oily, dry, combination). Your body benefits greatly from regular exfoliation and nourishing oils to combat dryness and maintain smoothness.