5 Things You Must Do to Look After Your Skin in a Heatwave

As the UK basks in a heatwave with temperatures soaring above 30°C, it's easy to forget just how much this kind of weather can affect our skin. Whether you're heading out to enjoy the weather or simply trying to stay cool at home, looking after your skin in extreme heat is essential, and not just for comfort, but also for long term health.

Here are 5 things you must do to keep your skin happy and healthy during a heatwave:

1. Hydrate Inside and Out

Hot weather means you're losing water faster—through sweat, sun, and even breathing. Dehydrated skin can feel tight, look dull, and be more prone to breakouts and irritation.

💧 Top tip: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and use a refreshing facial mist with natural ingredients (like rosewater or cucumber) to cool your skin on the go. Keep it in the fridge for an extra cooling hit.

2. Don’t Skip the SPF (Even if You’re in the Shade)

One of the most crucial things you can do is protect your skin from UV damage. Harmful UVA and UVB rays can still reach your skin through clouds, windows, and shade.

🌞 Top tip: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), and reapply every 2 hours. Apply your SPF after your skincare but before your makeup. If you need to reapply throughout the day, use a SPF mist over makeup.

3. Cleanse Gently (But Regularly)

Sweat, excess oil, sunscreen, and pollution can build up quickly in the heat, leading to clogged pores and irritation. However, harsh cleansers can strip the skin and make things worse.

🫧 Top tip: Use a gentle, natural cleanser that removes impurities without drying out your skin.

4. Switch to Lightweight Skincare

Heavy creams and rich oils can feel too much on the skin during a heatwave. Instead, opt for light, breathable formulas that nourish without clogging.

🌿 Top tip: Look for ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and jojoba oil. These hydrate without heaviness and help calm inflammation. Your skin will feel fresher, not suffocated.

5. Soothe and Restore After Sun Exposure

Even with SPF, skin can feel sensitive and tired after a long, hot day. Giving it a little TLC in the evening helps it recover and keeps it balanced.

🌙 Top tip: After cleansing, apply a soothing mist or serum. Look for calming ingredients like rosewater, aloe vera, or niacinamide to cool, hydrate, and help your skin recover overnight. Finish with a light moisturiser to lock it all in.

Final Thoughts

A heatwave can be fun and full of summer joy, but your skin needs your support to stay healthy and glowing. With a few simple swaps and some cooling rituals, you can stay radiant all summer long.

☀️ Stay cool, stay kind to your skin,