Lifestyle & Smart living

A guide to summer-ready skin that glows all season

A guide to summer-ready skin that glows all season

Summer brings wedding invitations, holiday bookings and a packed social calendar. Whether attending a best friend’s big day or jetting off for a long-awaited getaway, glowing skin becomes the ultimate accessory. The good news? Achieving that coveted radiant complexion doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul.

From simple at-home tweaks to professional treatments that deliver real results, there are plenty of ways to prep skin for the season ahead. Let’s explore how to get a complexion summer-ready, so the focus can be on making memories rather than worrying about skin.

Master the basics first

Before diving into advanced treatments, it is worth nailing the daily routine. Summer skin needs protection, hydration and gentle care. Start with a lightweight cleanser that removes sunscreen and sweat without stripping the skin. Follow with a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid – the skin will drink it up, especially in air-conditioned environments.

SPF remains non-negotiable. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours. For special events, consider a tinted moisturiser with SPF that evens the complexion while protecting it.

Do not forget to exfoliate regularly. Dead skin cells can make even the healthiest complexion look dull. Use a gentle chemical exfoliant with AHAs or BHAs twice weekly to reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath.

Achieving glass skin at home

The Korean beauty trend of “glass skin” – that dewy, translucent glow – has captured attention worldwide for good reason. It is achievable with the right approach and patience.

Start with double cleansing to ensure the skin is completely clean. Follow with an essence or lightweight toner to prep the skin for the products that follow. Layer a hydrating serum, then seal everything with a moisturiser suited to the skin type.

Face masks become a weekly ritual. Sheet masks infused with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide can provide an instant glow boost. For a DIY option, mix honey with a few drops of facial oil for a hydrating treatment that leaves skin looking luminous.

The key lies in consistency rather than complexity. Stick to the routine for at least four weeks to see real improvement in the skin’s texture and radiance.

Professional treatments that deliver

Sometimes an at-home routine needs professional backup. Skin boosters have gained popularity for good reason – they deliver deep hydration from within, creating that plump, glowing effect that is hard to achieve with topicals alone.

These treatments involve micro-injections of hyaluronic acid into the skin, improving texture, hydration and overall radiance. Results typically last three to six months, making them ideal for wedding season or extended holidays.

Dermal fillers offer another option for enhancing a natural glow. While often associated with volume replacement, subtle filler placement can restore skin structure and create a lifted, refreshed appearance that photographs beautifully.

Professional facials tailored to the skin type can also work wonders. HydraFacials, for example, combine cleansing, exfoliation and hydration in one treatment, leaving skin immediately glowing.

Finding the right practitioner

Professional treatments are only as good as the person administering them. Research is crucial when choosing an aesthetician or practitioner for skin boosters or dermal fillers.

Look for qualified professionals who have proper training and certification. They should be willing to discuss their qualifications and show before-and-after photos of their work. A reputable practitioner will also conduct a thorough consultation, discussing goals and any potential risks.

Equally important is ensuring the practitioner sources products responsibly. When practitioners buy Juvederm or other dermal fillers, they should purchase from authorised distributors only. This guarantees product authenticity and safety. Similarly, when practitioners buy dermal fillers, they should be able to provide documentation proving the products’ authenticity and proper storage.

Never compromise on safety for price. Legitimate practitioners invest in quality products and proper training, which is reflected in their pricing. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Quick fixes for last-minute events

Sometimes an instant glow is needed with zero downtime. Face oils can work miracles – apply a few drops to clean skin for immediate radiance. Choose lightweight options like squalane or rosehip oil that absorb quickly without leaving residue.

Facial massage should not be underestimated. Spend five minutes massaging the face with upward strokes to boost circulation and create natural colour. Use a jade roller or gua sha tool if available, or simply use the hands.

For photography-friendly skin, mix a tiny amount of liquid highlighter with moisturiser. This creates an all-over glow that looks natural in person but photographs beautifully.

Summer skin action plan

Start preparing the skin at least six weeks before any major events. This allows time to establish a routine, try professional treatments and make adjustments if needed. Book consultations early, especially during peak wedding season when appointments fill quickly.

Great skin is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistency with a daily routine will always trump sporadic intensive treatments. Stay hydrated, eat plenty of antioxidant-rich foods and get adequate sleep – the skin will thank you.

Summer’s social calendar does not have to stress the skin. With the right combination of daily care and professional treatments when needed, it is possible to achieve an enviable glow that lasts all season long.

The editorial unit

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