AD – GIFTED | Have you ever noticed that your skin performs differently in summer compared to winter? And that the light quality, depending on the time of day, can either make you look like a goddess (or god), or cruelly highlight every single breakout? Glowing summer skin is the Holy Grail for most of us, isn’t it? And the great news is that it’s neither frighteningly expensive, nor impossible to achieve. Here’s my six step morning skincare routine that I swear by for healthy, glowing summer skin.
Glowing summer skin – what’s involved?
I’ve written many times about our skin being a blank canvas. And if you don’t start with a good base, then no amount of paint is going to camouflage that. I’m not talking about a few spots, I’m talking about dull, lifeless, flaky skin that looks as if it’s never seen a cleanser or moisturiser. Of course there are some lucky folk that seem to be able to thrive on soap and water but that’s not usually the case for the majority of us. And it’s not just what you put on top of your skin either. Hydration, diet and a healthy lifestyle all play their part too. Here are my favourite products that I’ve been using religiously, with Amazon links* to buy in case you want to try them for yourself.
Skincare Routine Step One – cleanse and exfoliate
First up is my go-to budget buy, ALDI’s Lacura Refining + Mattifying Pink Clay Exfoliating Face Scrub for Normal Skin. (Spot the dupe 😉 ) In theory, you’re supposed to use it twice a week for best results. But because I have normal to combination skin, I use it every morning in the shower. It’s super gentle and leaves my skin feeling fresh, soft and clean. You can also use it as a mask, although I don’t need to. Kudos, it’s vegan and cruelty free too. Tragically, it’s no longer available online at ALDI, although you might be lucky and find some in a store near you. If not, hooray, you can still get it on Amazon.
Lacura Refining + Mattifying Pink Clay Exfoliating Face Scrub for Normal Skin *
Skincare Routine Step Two – serum
As you might have seen on my Instagram, three months ago Mila Simone* kindly gifted me a gorgeous Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid serum. Made in the UK, this is a vegan, cruelty free, fragrance free, oil free, light weight serum, suitable for all skin types. The blend of antioxidants targets dull and dehydrated skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and blemishes. And the payoff is plumper, smoother and hydrated skin, perfect for that all important summer skin glow. Never having tried a Vitamin C serum before, I was utterly amazed at how my skin did in fact literally GLOW within a few days use. Oh, and all those fruit acids smell fantastic too. At the time of writing, I’m just about to run out, so I’ll be ordering another one shortly.
Mila Simone Azzura Essence Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Serum *
Skincare Routine Step Three – moisturise
Now I know that you don’t necessarily have to spend a lot on moisturiser, but I’m a long-standing fan of Origins Skincare. It works for me and I believe my skin, which I wear every day, is worth the investment. I reviewed their Original Skin Matte Moisturizer a while ago and loved it. Other moisturisers come and go, but this one is a staple in my summer skincare routine. It’s a lightweight but hydrating pale pink water cream, with a lovely, light, gel like consistency that melts into my skin straight away. And leaves my skin soft, smooth, hydrated, and not at all overloaded, perfect for glowing summer skin. This is cheaper on Amazon than via John Lewis with their minimum spend for free P&P 🙂
Origins Original Skin Matte Moisturizer *
Skincare Routine Step Four – SPF protection
While Vitamin D is a must for healthy skin, too much Vitamin D can exacerbate skin ageing. As a gardener, I spend a fair amount of time outside so wearing sunscreen with adequate SPF protection is a must, even in the UK on a cloudy day. Step forward FREZYDERM Sun Screen Velvet FACE SPF 50+ a non-comedogenic, transparent, sun protection face cream that leaves a matte, velvety feel on my combination skin, rather than a film of oil. As an added bonus, it doesn’t discolour in sunlight and makes an excellent base for make up. I’ve used this SPF for years, at home and abroad on holiday, and it’s gentle enough for Flora’s face too 🙂 And if you’re using a Vitamin C serum in the morning, SPF is a MUST as their combined power is a benefit multiplier for your skin.
FREZYDERM Sun Screen Velvet FACE SPF 50+ *
Skincare Routine Step Five – supplements
Heeding my mother’s advice about supplements, for the last few weeks I’ve been taking some kindly gifted new LQ Collagen Skin Hair Nails Powders* before breakfast. (I tried some LQ Collagen daily 50ml liquid supplements last year and saw a huge improvement in my skin.) When I say powders, you mix them with water or a smoothie, because our bodies absorb liquids much faster and more easily than pills. Gluten, lactose and dairy-free, each Marine Collagen serving contains Hyaluronic Acid, Biotin & Selenium and Vitamin C for a perfect beauty boost. And yes, once again my skin is very happy, along with my nails and hair this time too. In fact my nails are the strongest they’ve been for months, despite all my gardening. So, despite the acquired taste (!), I’d say they do really work, and I’ll be re-ordering before my tub runs out.
LQ Collagen Skin Hair Nails Powder *
Skincare Routine Step Six – water
What kind of summer skincare routine (or indeed any skincare routine) doesn’t involve drinking lots of water? Did you know that our bodies are also made up of between 60% and 70% water? Which is one of the main reasons why we need to drink so much water every day; to keep hydrated and help our kidneys flush out the toxins. And, if you can manage it, using a steam water distiller for 99.9% pure water is best as there are no impurities left, so your body doesn’t need to act as a filter. (There’s a reason scientists use distilled water for their experiments, after all). But whether you drink plain water, flavoured water, or herbal teas, it all counts towards your recommended six to eight glasses a day.
Glowing summer skin – my six step morning routine
So this is my six-step healthy summer skincare routine – not too onerous, I think. With one or two exceptions, I don’t believe you need to spend a lot on your skincare. It’s about consistency, application, and finding what works best for you. I’m all for testing products recommended by others but if after a fair trial (3-4 weeks) I don’t see any measurable benefits, I know it’s time to move on. Because what works for one enthusiast may not work in exactly the same way for another person. Worst case scenario, you might suffer an adverse reaction, but you could be lucky and find it works even better too! The main thing to remember is that once you achieve your summer skin nirvana, it’s consistency and application which will help you keep that glow all summer long. Kathy over on Glitz and Glamour Make Up has some more great summer skincare tips as well, but in the meantime, happy testing, and happy summer!
What do you like to use for your morning skincare routine? Have you tried any of these products before? What tips do you have for achieving – and keeping – glowing summer skin?
* This post features some gifted items and some affiliate links (please see my disclaimer) but all opinions are my own.
Aimsy says
I love seeing other’s routines, and seeing whether there is anything that I can add to mine. I really like the sound of the aldi facemask…hooray for amazon! I generally just use water on my face in the morning, with a spritz of lush’s ‘Eau de Roma’ toner. Then I place on some of Lush’s ‘Grease lightning’ spot treatment, followed by my own mix of rosehip oil with lavender and theatre. When that has soaked in, I then use my Lush moisturiser…I know very lush product heavy, but I have found that these work perfectly for my skin. I often remove my make up with my own lush ‘ultrabland’ dupe and then use rose water as a toner, finishing with more of the rosehip serum.
I definitely need to use more SPF and drink more water!
Thanks for sharing your routine!
Aimsy xoxo
Aimsy’s Antics
Lisa says
Ooooh, I love the sound of your homemade mix: rosehip and lavender are so good for skin! I think Lush would be too heavy for my skin, it needs a very light moisturiser, even in winter. But you’ve reminded me I have a rosehip serum in my draw which would be great before bed time so thank you! x
Sue Berk Koch says
Nicely outlined! I have been skipping step 5. I’ll need to look into supplements. Thanks so much for the recommendations.
Lisa says
I’ve been a fan of supplements from childhood, my mother was very firm on that, haha. Thank you, I’m glad this was helpful!
Lauren says
These are some great products and some great tips to help you get healthier glowing skin. I have been really trying to focus on my skincare and having a consistent healthy routine. I have found a vitamin c serum that is working well so far too. Thank you for sharing these steps Lisa xxx
Lisa says
Vitamin C serums are game changers, aren’t they? I wish I’d started using one ages ago! Thank you, Lauren, I’m glad this was helpful 🙂 xx
Jaya Avendel says
Drinking water as well as moisturizing is a great way to keep hydrated and keep that precious water inside you! I remember reading a post on Korean skincare methods from you, and I love this post as well.
My skin tries to dry out in the hot summer days so it is important for me to keep a glass of water handy, as well as eat hydrating foods, like yogurt and cucumbers. I also love a good soak in my hot tub to open my pores. 🙂
Lisa says
Ah, thank you for remembering my K-beauty skincare post, Jaya! And yes, those are great tips about keeping hydrating foods handy on hot days too – we love watermelon from the fridge 🙂
Teresa says
This sounds like a wonderfully straight-forward routine. I just realized I don’t have much of a morning routine skin-wise… I cleanse and moisturize my face every evening but don’t actually do anything in the morning. I wonder what a difference it might make if I did start using a serum and moisturizing in the mornings as well. My skin’s super particular, though. I went through some super hard core acne medication in my teens and ever since if I’ve even tried a new moisturizer my skin retaliates with a 3-week war 😀 But I think it might be okay with a morning routine, though… x
Teresa Maria | Outlandish Blog
Lisa says
I’m all for simple, the Korean 10-step takes too long for me! You might find your make up would sit better on a moisturised face though and serums tend to penetrate the skin very quickly too. If you haven’t tried a Vitamin C serum I’d honestly recommend giving one a go, they really do make a massive difference to the skin’s texture and plumpness! x
Meera says
My skin has been acting up loads recently so this is much needed! I usually just wash my face with water morning and night and then always use a very light (usually Lush) moisturiser in the morning. I find that when I put too mny products on my face it can sometimes make it worse! To be honest the one thing I found works the best for me is drinking loads of water and increasing my fruit intake (esp. blueberries!) Thanks for the recommendations!
Lisa says
Oh, I’m so pleased it was helpful although if your skincare routine is working for you then that’s great. I know what you mean about too many products making things worse though. And that’s a great tip about blueberries, they’re full of antioxidants, aren’t they!
Aaliyah says
I love doing my skincare routine in the morning and evening, I also find it so relaxing as well. I haven’t tried anything from Aldi’s skincare range but I’ve heard such good things about it and I really want to give it a try! X
Lisa says
Oh yes, ALDI has some fantastic dupes, you should definitely check them out – Sand & Sky, Pixi, Nars, Naked, they’re all there from time to time! x
Adam says
I struggle to drink water routinely, never mind anything else. I do have a draw full of lotions and potions (I’m a modern man 👀😂) my hands and feet need all the help they can get. I have face stuff to, but I’m too lazy to use it routinely….yes dabbing a bit of cream on my face is too much like hard work 😂
Lisa says
Well, it’s good to hear you have lots of products to choose from if and when the mood takes you then! 😂
Lisa says
Ooh I love reading other people’s skincare routines! And you have such beautiful skin so I’ll definitely be using some of your tips!
I’ve seen that skincare in Aldi so next time I’m in there I’ll pick some up! I’ve also just received some skincare vitamins in my lasted beauty box so I’ll get on them. I’m so guilty of not drinking enough water though 🙈 that’s my hint to go and get a glass now! Thank you ❤️
Lisa says
Oh Lisa, thank you, that’s so kind of you, wow! Yes, do try some of ALDI’s Lacura range if you can, it’s fab. And I hope you get on well with your skincare vitamins too 🙂 x
Liz Hartley says
I don’t currently take any supplements for my skin as I don’t want to rely on anything like that, but that one looks so good for an all round beauty boost! x
Lisa says
I normally take cod liver oil daily anyway but this one has made a real difference to my skin and nails! x
melissa major says
Such a great summer skin morning routine, I need to start taking supplements!
Mel 🌙
Lisa says
Thank you – and yes, they do seem to make a real difference!
Carolyn says
I absolutely love Origins! I use their pink clay mask every week and my skin always feels so incredibly soft afterwards. I’m just at that age where fine lines and wrinkles are starting to show (eep!), so I’ve doing a lot of research on skincare. The problem is I’m allergic to so many things, so it’s hard to find something that works for me without spending a lot of money. A hyaluronic serum has been on my list for a while, and the Mila Simone brand looks very promising (I love that it has Vitamin C included). I’m going to check to see if they sell that brand here in the States. Great list!
Lisa says
Hooray, a fellow Origins Original Skin fan! Their products are just fantastic, aren’t they? And I just checked, Mila Simone do ship to America so definitely search them out and give their serum a go, I’m sure you’ll love it too!
Lisa Marie Alioto says
I could use a little glow in the morning – these sound like great products! Thanks for introducing them to us!
Lisa says
You’re welcome, I’m glad they might be helpful!
Amy says
I’ve heard all about Aldi doing some amazing product dupes and I’m gutted I’ve not managed to get to one as I would have stocked up! I’ve found recently that some of Superdrug’s skincare products are really good – especially their vitamin E cream! Thanks for sharing x
Lisa says
I do think some drugstore skincare ranges are really good, I’ve heard great things about Superdrug’s Vitamin E cream too x
Kalin says
I just used the last of my serum so I was hoping to order more to day! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on these products!
Lisa says
Oh did you get the same serum? It’s amazing, isn’t it? 🙂
Fadima Mooneira says
The Mila Simone Azura Essence looks good. To me essence is very important for a supple glowing skin. Thank you for sharing this beautiful post.
Lisa says
Serums really are game changers, aren’t they? 🙂
The Exclusive Beauty Diary says
Thank you for sharing your routine. My is the same with different products.
New Post – https://www.exclusivebeautydiary.com/2020/07/2nd-anniversary-of-exclusive-beauty.html
Lisa says
Oh really, that’s great to hear!
Jenny in Neverland says
Oooh there’s such a fab range of products here. I stick religiously to the same range for my skincare and only deviate if I really need to but perhaps I should experiment with using different products? My skin is definitely a bit rubbish at the moment so I could do with a glow!
Lisa says
If I was going to suggest one product to experiment with it would be a Vitamin C serum, they really are amazing for all sorts of reasons but especially if you’re after a bit of a glow. Plus they feel like such a treat too! x
Nic | Nic's Adventures & Bakes says
Thanks for sharing your skincare rountine, mine has been the same for years, but it works 🙂
Nic | Nic’s Adventures & Bakes
Lisa says
That’s all that matters then – but thank you!
Aurenda says
I’ve been looking for a morning routine for so long. It’s safe to say I finally found it
Lisa says
Thank you, I’m so pleased it was helpful 🙂
lifestyleseason says
Great post! Thank you for sharing this! This is very useful to me!
Lisa says
You’re welcome, that’s good to hear!
Nyxie says
This is an excellent routine. I really must start getting into a skincare routine. I’m not getting any younger!
Lisa says
Thank you – and yes, I share your pain!
Anca says
You are so right on SPF. I use SPF 30 or 50 if I’m in the garden or outside. Only in late afternoons I don’t bother with it, the rest of the time I use it and re-apply regularly.
Lisa says
It’s so important, isn’t it? Especially on our faces.
Via Singh says
I loved to read about your simple skincare routine. You are absolutely right a few simple products can make a lot of difference to our skin. My skincare is simple and sometimes when I am in mood and work a little extra for my oily skin hehehe. In the morning I like to use a cleanser, some toner and serum. During afternoon I like to use a face mask according to what my skin needs. But at night I love adding a nice night cream or sleeping mask. The Origins moisturizer sounds lovely along with your collagen drink. I hope I can find one here or when I travel to US I will try to get that. I use biotin and it has helped a lot with my hair and nails. 🙂
Lisa says
Thank you, Via, I do appreciate that coming from you! My skin is very similar to yours, I think, so it sounds like we follow a similar routine. You can’t beat a good serum though, can you? And if you can find a collagen supplement, I’d recommend giving one a go, I’ve been very pleasantly surprised 🙂
Des | itsbetterinheels says
Very thorough morning routine! I currently don’t use a serum, but I’ve heard many rave about the importance. A lot of them are just so expensive though. I’ve been trying to make it a point to really drink a lot of water.
Thanks for sharing your routine and tips!
Des
Lisa says
Thank you, and that’s great to hear you drink plenty of water 🙂 I’d recommend giving a serum a go though, some aren’t that expensive and a little goes a long way so they last ages!
em wells says
This sounds like an amazing routine! I am really suffering with my skin at the moment – it’s very dry as I’ve been ill for a couple of days. I think I will invest in some of these products to try and bring it back to life. It seems to be such a simple routine and yet so effective! Thanks for sharing, I haven’t heard of many of these products before!
Em | http://www.loveemblog.com
Lisa says
Ah no, so sorry to hear you’ve been ill. If your skin is very dry then a facial oil would really help you – something with rosehip seed oil or frankincense would be perfect. Lots of good fruit acids and healing oils combined 🙂
Kayleigh Zara says
These are all some really great products I’ve heard alot about some of them mentioned and others are my first time seeing them! Moisturising and drinking a good amount of water is something that my nan used to really believe and it really does work too x
Lisa says
Your nan definitely had the right idea: that’s a combination you can’t go wrong with! x
Cassie says
I’m really curious about collagen. I’m going to have to check this one out. Thank you Lisa!
Lisa says
You’re welcome – I hope you see some good results too, if you do try some!
Kelly Diane says
This is such a great post and you’ve included some lovely products, some of which I’ve tried and enjoyed myself. I completely agree that water is so important. People think that there will be a big change after a couple of days and usually give up when it doesn’t happen for them but it can take so much longer to get the right routine for you skin.
Lisa says
Thank you, Kelly, and I’m so glad you said that. Any new product needs a little time to have any real measurable effect – at least 3-4 weeks in most cases, although I do have to say the Vitamin C serum made a difference in a matter of days!
Nikki - Notes of Life says
These look and sound great. I’ve been going down The Body Shop route this year as a friend is a Body Shop at Home seller.
Lisa says
The Body Shop do have some lovely products for sure 🙂
Natasha Evans says
I love seeing other people’s routines and I’m always looking out for new products to get a healthy glow! Love the sound of the Aldi scrub!
Tash
Lisa says
Honestly, I love it so much, I’m so glad Amazon do it as well as my local ALDI’s have sold out!
Loren says
Thank you for sharing this straightforward easy to understand morning routine! Water can make such a big difference in one’s countenance. I have to say that’s my favorite step lol! I know I should but I always forget to add SPF sunscreen to my routine, will have to remind myself every day.
Loren
Lisa says
Well, if you work indoors then SPF isn’t such a biggie but if you can find a moisturiser with SPF integrated then that would be brilliant!
Emma says
Thanks for sharing these simple steps. So many routines are overly complicated or have ridiculously expensive products in them. I love yours for it’s simplicity and high stress products!
Lisa says
Oh thank you so much, that’s so kind of you! I’m all for simplicity and not spending too much money so I’m glad you found my routine and favourite products helpful 🙂
Kathryn says
I find reading tips and routines from other people so helpful, especially when it comes to skincare. I would love to try a new serum. I’ve heard great reviews about the benefits of using a good serum.
Lisa says
If you do try anything I’d recommend a serum – especially a Vitamin C one, they really do work wonders on your skin 🙂
Calie says
I have a morning routine but it doesn’t include anything regarding my face and I think I should add this to my routine! Thanks for the great tips!
Lisa says
You’re welcome, I’m glad you found it helpful!
Rayo says
I love your morning skincare routine. It’s very simple without too much products and drinking water is very important. Thanks for sharing
Lisa says
Thank you so much, that’s so kind of you 🙂
Nkem says
I couldn’t agree more with your post, except to add… AVOCADOS! haha they are amazing for hair and skin.
Lisa says
Oh yes, they are, but I always want to eat them, haha!
Amie says
I always use SPF, at the moment, I’m avoiding make up at the moment due to ensuring I’m wearing my mask!
Love, Amie ❤️
The Curvaceous Vegan
Lisa says
I know what you mean, I’ve stopped wearing foundation and lipstick, it’s just not worth it at the moment!
Savannah says
Great post! I always enjoy posts like these, where I can learn more about other people’s skincare routines and find inspiration for my own. Thank you for sharing!
Lisa says
You’re welcome, I’m so pleased it was helpful!
Lindsey says
There’s some great suggestions here. I’m pretty bad for just doing the same thing the entire year around regardless of what my skin actually needs but some of these products sound amazing. I love light moisturisers that work without leaving you feeling greasy. And remembering to drink enough water can never be over-rated! Great post.
Lisa says
Thank you so much – and yes, I can’t bear a moisturiser that just sits on my skin! I’m glad you enjoyed this and also glad to hear you drink plenty of water 🙂
Jenni says
Glowing summer skin? Yes please! I have been on a lake for the past week and my hair has gone wild (I mean so wide it doesn’t fit in a selfie 😅) but my skin has zero glow at the moment. Need to get it back so thanks for the tips 💖
Lisa says
Ah, thank you, Jenni – a week on a lake sounds amazing though, I think I’d forego my glow for that opportunity!
The Exclusive Beauty Diary says
These products seems great. I need to check them. Thank you for sharing your tips for glowing skin.
New Post – https://www.exclusivebeautydiary.com/2020/08/atelier-des-ors-choeur-des-anges.html
Lisa says
You’re welcome, I hope you enjoy any you try.
Ellis James Designs says
Seeing others’ routines always inspire me to try new products or new ingredients or up my ante in the skincare game! Thanks for sharing.
Lisa says
You’re welcome, I love seeing other people’s routines too 🙂
Carolyn says
Great round up of products! Thanks for sharing your routine!
Lisa says
Thank you – I’m glad you liked them!