As the weather warms up, my skincare routine naturally shifts. Gone are the layers of heavier products, and in comes a simplified, lighter lineup with one non-negotiable: SPF, and lots of it. Some of the items I’ll share below have been with me for years, while a few are newer discoveries that I’ve quickly grown to love. Together, they make up a routine that feels refreshing, effective, and season-appropriate.
Morning Routine
A Gentle Start
I used to reach for a cleanser every single morning, convinced that a squeaky-clean face was the best way to start the day. These days, I’ve changed my tune. Unless my skin feels particularly oily or grimy, I simply splash my face with cold water. It’s enough to wake me up and refresh my skin without over-stripping it. I’ve found that if my nighttime routine has done its job, there’s no need for a cleanser first thing in the morning. From there, I move right into toner.
Biologique Recherche P50
This is the one product I’ve stayed loyal to for over a decade, and for good reason. P50 is my go-to toner and gentle exfoliant in one, and I use it three to four mornings a week. It helps keep my skin balanced, minimizes excess oil, and refines texture without being harsh. On the days I skip it, I move straight into my next step.
Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is one of those ingredients that my skin just loves. Over the years, I’ve experimented with several formulas, but I always circle back to a few favorites. Right now, I’m using Skinceuticals CE Ferulic—a splurge, yes, but in my opinion, one of the best on the market.
That said, there are other great options depending on your budget: Obagi’s version is excellent, and for something more wallet-friendly, Maelove’s The Glow Maker delivers impressive results at a fraction of the cost. No matter which one I use, Vitamin C is a staple for brighter, healthier-looking skin.
U Beauty The Return Eye Concentrate
I’m selective when it comes to eye creams, because so many of them miss the mark for me—either too thin, too watery, or just not effective. U Beauty’s The Return Eye Concentrate, however, has been a standout.
Its creamy, cushiony texture feels deeply hydrating at night, yet light enough to work beautifully under makeup during the day. Since incorporating it into my routine, I’ve noticed my eye area looks smoother and more refreshed. It’s on the pricier side, but if you’re willing to splurge a little, I think it’s worth every penny. (Tip: U Beauty often offers a discount code for first-time shoppers, which helps soften the blow.)
U Beauty The Super Hydrator
This product has officially earned “can’t live without it” status in my collection. I mentioned it in my roundup of favorite products last year, and I still stand by that claim. The Super Hydrator is exactly what the name suggests: a big, luxurious drink of water for your skin.
What I love most is its versatility. Some mornings, I’ll use it under my SPF in place of a moisturizer. Other times, I’ll layer it at night beneath my cream for an added boost of hydration. If your skin leans dry, you might still want a traditional moisturizer afterward, but for me, this serum often does the job on its own.
Innisfree Daily UV Defense SPF 36
Of course, no morning routine is complete without sunscreen. For the past year, my go-to has been Innisfree’s Daily UV Defense SPF 36. It checks all the boxes: lightweight, absorbs quickly, leaves no white cast, and plays nicely under makeup.
On days when I want a little extra glow, I’ll swap it out for Supergoop’s Glow Screen, which adds a subtle radiance without feeling heavy. But regardless of which formula I reach for, sunscreen is non-negotiable—especially in the summer months.
Final Thoughts
This pared-down routine feels just right for the warmer months. It gives my skin everything it needs—gentle exfoliation, antioxidants, hydration, and, most importantly, sun protection—without layering on unnecessary steps.
Some of these products are longtime staples (looking at you, P50), while others are more recent discoveries that I now consider essentials. I love that mix of old and new—it keeps my routine both reliable and exciting.
If you’re in the process of tweaking your own skincare for the season, my best advice is to simplify. Listen to what your skin needs, streamline where you can, and never skip SPF.
