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Are You Ready for Summer? Check Out These Must-Have Skin Care Products!

Updated: Dec 4, 2025

As summer approaches, you may find yourself out and about more in 2021 than you did in 2020. But with travel plans, pool time and backyard BBQs come with summer skin problems, such as sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and even bug bites.


Sunglasses with gold lenses rest on a concrete ledge, overlooking a clear blue swimming pool. Reflections create a calm summer vibe.

I will admit, it has felt warmer and warmer outside over the years and the sun’s rays can take a toll on your skin. I have made more effort to taking care of my body's largest organ, the skin. Here are the 5 must-have summer skin care products.


Sun Care and Protection Skin Care Products

Sunscreen

Black Girl Sunscreen tube with gold logo. Text: "Oxybenzone and Paraben Free, SPF 30, Ultra Sheer, Fragrance Free, 3 fl oz (89 mL)."

The # 1 reason I love Black Girl Sunscreen, it does not leave a white cast on dark skin tones! This come in SPF 30-45 and SPF 50 for kids.


"There is a myth that black people and POC don’t need sunscreen because of the melanin in our skin, but there are a number of reasons why sunscreen can be helpful for dark skin. Unfortunately, many people with dark skin have a hard time finding a sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white or gray cast, so this one was made specifically for darker skin tones to avoid that issue." – Jasmine Seales


Specialized Sun Protection & Application

Product Category

Specific Product Idea

Why It Works

Mineral Sunscreen Powder

Brush-on SPF 30 or 50 powder (e.g., Supergoop Re-Setting Powder or alternatives)

Perfect for reapplying sunscreen over makeup throughout the day without messing it up.

High-SPF Lip Balm/Treatment

SPF 30+ Lip Balms (e.g., EltaMD, COOLA, or Aquaphor Lip Protectant)

Lips are often forgotten but highly susceptible to sun damage and peeling in the summer.

SPF for Scalp/Hair

Sunscreen Mist or Powder specifically for the scalp/hair parting.

Addresses a common issue for people with thin hair or darker hair who don't want a greasy feel.

UV Protection Accessories

Sun hats (wide-brimmed UPF 50+) or UPF 50+ clothing items.

Expands the content beyond topical products into sun gear.

After Sun Body Lotion

Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil
Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil

I will admit, there are times that I've spent long periods in the sun and missed reapplying sunscreen. I use after sun gel anytime I’ve been outdoors for an extended period and have found that it can help nip the symptoms of potential sunburn in. Applying after sun body lotion is great for people who spend a lot of time outdoors and people in sunny regions.


Pro-tip: "Keep a bottle in the fridge for an added cooling sensation.” – Tess Catlett.


Post-Sun Treatment & Repair

Product Category

Specific Product Idea

Why It Works

Vitamin C Serum

A powerful Vitamin C and Ferulic Acid serum.

Pre-emptive summer care. It's recommended for daytime use under sunscreen to enhance UV protection and brighten skin, combating sun-induced dark spots.

Cooling Under-Eye Gels/Patches

Hydrogel eye masks kept in the fridge.

Excellent for de-puffing and soothing tired eyes after a long, sunny day.

Anti-Chafe/Friction Balm

Clear, invisible anti-chafing stick (e.g., Body Glide).

Addresses a body care issue that is crucial in summer, especially for active people or travel.


Moisturizer

Day and Night Moisturizer


White and blue jar of Essential Moisture Face Cream for normal to combination skin, oil-free, 1.7 fl oz/50 ml, against a white background.
SEACRET Day-To-Night Moisturizing Duo

After drying out my skin from having too much fun in the sun, replenishing the moisture is essential to keeping my skin healthy and restoring my glow.


The Day and Night Moisturizer Set is designed to combat dryness and revive dull skin for all skin types. It helps to deliver refreshing and lightweight hydration to the skin while working to improve skin tone.

Heat and Humidity Control

These products address the increased oil, sweat, and redness associated with summer temperatures.

Product Category

Specific Product Idea

Why It Works

Oil-Control/Setting Spray

Mattifying makeup setting spray or a dedicated hydrating facial mist (e.g., Urban Decay All Nighter or Mario Badescu)

Essential for locking in skincare/makeup and controlling shine caused by humidity.

Cooling Facial Spray/Mist

A travel-sized, hydrating mist with ingredients like cucumber or rosewater.

Provides an instant cool-down and hydration boost during outdoor activities.

Oil-Blotting Papers

Eco-friendly or charcoal-infused blotting papers.

A simple, low-cost impulse buy that solves the problem of midday shine.

Masks

Mud Mask

Black and silver jar labeled "M4 Mineral-rich Magnetic Mud Mask." Text states "All skin types." Simple, sleek design against white.

Do you schedule weekly spa treatments? Because I sure don't and I know that most of don't as well, but we do like skincare products that we can use at home makes us feel like we spent whole day at the spa.


The M4 Mineral-Rich Magnetic Mud Mask rejuvenates your complexion and fight visible signs of aging with bio-magnetic power. It cleanse, relax, and smooth your skin; while leaving a silky finish that hydrates and protects again moisture loss.

Bug Spray

Insect Repellent Spray


Green Repel insect repellent bottle with orange cap. Text highlights 25% bonus, 40% DEET. Outdoorsy design with trees and mountain.
Repel Insect Repellent Sportsman Max

I have major bug issue where I live: mosquitoes, gnats, and biting flies. Something about the warm, humid temperatures love bringing out bugs out the wood works. My skin is itching thinking about now!


Repel Insect Repellent Sportsmen Max Formula 40% DEET repels mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, biting flies, chiggers and fleas. A tough repellent for any adventure. This insect repellent is designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts exposed to the toughest conditions. Repels mosquitoes that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.


Provides long-lasting protection in the great outdoors: Especially for campers, hikers, golfers, bikers, joggers, ball players and others who are active outdoors.



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Rissa What's Next is a travel and lifestyle blog where I share my journey and talk about a variety of topics from travel to beauty to personal development to health and wellness.

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