The summer of our lockdown dreams is finally within our grasp, and it is not just our winter wardrobes that require a seasonal refresh. Luckily, there are many summer skin products that you can incorporate into your everyday routine to protect your skin and keep it looking and feeling its best.

From lightweight holy grails to the sun safe and sweatproof, we have listed our top 5 skincare essentials for your make-up bag this summer.

SPF

An undeniable necessity of any skincare routine, SPF not only reduces your risk of skin cancer but also signs of ageing. As we spend more time outdoors, increased exposure to UVA & UVB rays can lead to a variety of skin concerns such as increased sebum production, acne flare-ups, increased dryness, and hyperpigmentation. While in the past, the greasy aftermath and white cast caused more frustration than protection, 2022 has seen considerable developments in sunscreens and serums that protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays and everyday pollutants.

Check out our top lightweight, non-greasy and fast-absorbing sun creams to leave you feeling fresh and protected:

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50 50ML- €19.50, Boots 

Eucerin Sun Oil Control Face Protection Sun Cream for Oily & Blemish Prone Skin SPF 50+, 50ml-€ 21.00, Boots 

Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Hydrating Face Sun Cream Mist SPF50 75ml, €9.50, Boots 

Holland & Barrett Mineral Sunscreen SPF 15 150ml, €10.99, Holland & Barret

Cleansing Balms 

Washing away the Day is the key to any successful skin routine, even more so in the summer. Cleansing balms are an effective yet gentle way to tackle everyday grime, sunscreen and sweat to help you maintain a healthy complexion. Allow your skin to reset and prep for the rest of your carefully curated skin routine. Cleansing balms work for all skin types and concerns and are especially great for the summer months due to the fact they provide immediate moisture while removing make-up build-up and increase SPF protection.

Our top cleansing balms for 2022 below:

Elements Boutique Spa Cleansing Balm, €25.00, Holland & Barrett.

Clinique Take The Day Off™ Cleansing Balm 125ml, €31.00, Boots

e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm, €11.00, Boots 

Versed Day Dissolve cleansing balm 74ml, €20.00, Boots

Chemical Exfoliation

While SPF protection and cleansing are two non-negotiables regarding your summer skin routine, exfoliation is not to be underestimated. It is not only essential for improving your skin's texture and tone but also for offering a perfect base upon which your following skin care products can penetrate and work more effectively.

Gone are the days of facial scrubs and microbeads as 2022 has embraced chemical exfoliation products. Despite the intimidating and abrasive name, chemical exfoliation is quite the opposite. While physical exfoliation can agitate and potentially damage or compromise the skin's natural barriers, chemical exfoliants gently resurface the skin.

Our favourite antioxidant product recommendations:

 The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, €8.30, Boots

 The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum 30ml, €12.99, Boots

 YSL Top Secrets Natural Action Exfoliator - 75ml, €.4500, Boots

Antioxidant Serums 

All skincare routines will benefit from the addition of antioxidants, particularly in the summer as they prevent skin damage but can also reduce inflammation and redness formation of sunspots. Despite their incredible benefits, the world of antioxidants can seem intimidating, which is why we have narrowed down the key ingredients you should look out for vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A and niacinamide.

Our go-to antioxidant product recommendations:

The Inkey List Vitamin B C And E Moisturizer 50ml, €6.99, Boots

 Holland & Barrett Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Serum 30ml, €17.49, Holland & Barrett 

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% & Zinc 1% S 60ml, €12.19, Boots

Face & Body Mist 

It is important to keep our face & body feeling refreshed and moisturised, but applying a barrage of lotions, oils and creams can be time-consuming. Make the most of your summer evenings and save time with quick-drying and convenient moisturising sprays. These quick, lighter-weight options are perfect in warm weather. Our top tip? Pop your spray in the fridge in the morning and then treat yourself you a cooling and refreshing spritz after your Day by the poolside.

Find our favourites below:

Aveeno Daily Moisturising After-Shower Mist 200ml, €5.33, Boots 

Glow Hub Calm & Soothe Serum Mist 90ml, €12.00, Boots 

Sukin Rose Hydrating Mist Spray 125ml, €7.95, Holland & Barratt 

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Deep Moisture Body Mist 200ml, €6.66, Boots 

Make the most of the summer and embrace and protect your natural skin with these skincare essentials in 2022.  

Find everything you need this summer at Marshes Shopping Centre. Keep your eye out on our Instagram & Facebook for more Summer Fest giveaways and competitions!