As the kids start counting down the days to the school holidays (and secretly hiding uniform items so they "can't possibly go to school"), I find myself drifting off into daydreams of holidays. You know the ones—somewhere warm, where breakfast lasts until noon, sandals are the only shoes you need, and you can almost read a book uninterrupted. Whether it’s Cornwall or the Canary Islands, as long as the sun’s shining, I’m happy. But while I’m busy planning outfits and packing beach bags, I also start shifting focus to one very important thing: my skin.

Summer is glorious, but it can really do a number on your complexion if you’re not prepared. Between the heat, UV rays, sweat, chlorine, saltwater, and air conditioning, skin often ends up dry, dehydrated, and looking a little lacklustre. I used to come back from holidays feeling great, but my skin? Not so much—until I learned how to properly protect and hydrate it during the warmer months.

Here’s how I keep my skin feeling fresh, healthy and glowing, no matter how hot it gets (or how chaotic the family holiday becomes):

1. Hydrate from the inside out
I used to think a good moisturiser was enough, but honestly, the biggest difference came when I started prioritising water. In the heat, your body loses fluids faster—through sweat, through sun exposure, and even through travel (thank you, dry airplane air). I aim for 2 litres a day during summer, and I notice it in my skin when I stick to it: fewer dry patches, smoother texture, and even less puffiness.

Tip: If you struggle to drink plain water, infuse it with things like cucumber, mint, lemon, or berries. It’s a small thing, but it makes drinking it feel like a treat—especially on hot days.

2. Never skip the SPF
SPF is non-negotiable in my routine, and not just for poolside lounging. Even when the UK sun is playing hide and seek behind the clouds, UV rays can still damage the skin. I use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 (at minimum) every single day and reapply if I’m out in direct sun for long.

I also remind myself that sun damage doesn’t just cause redness—it breaks down collagen, leads to fine lines, and can cause long-term pigmentation. Prevention really is better than cure.

Tip: Don’t forget sneaky areas like your ears, neck, chest and hands. They’re often the first to show signs of sun ageing.

3. Switch to lighter, summer-friendly products
During the winter, I love a thick, buttery moisturiser. But come summer, it can feel like it’s melting right off my face. That’s when I swap in lighter textures—think hydrating gels or serums with hyaluronic acid.

These products pull moisture into the skin without clogging pores or feeling greasy. I also look for ingredients like aloe, glycerin and niacinamide to calm and hydrate while keeping my skin barrier strong.

Tip: Apply products to slightly damp skin after cleansing to lock in moisture more effectively.

4. Care for delicate areas
The skin on your lips and around your eyes is thinner and more prone to sun damage and dehydration. I’ve learned the hard way that forgetting lip balm with SPF leads to dry, cracked lips—especially at the beach.

Now, I never leave home without a hydrating balm with sun protection. I also use a cooling eye gel in the mornings to de-puff and hydrate, especially if I’ve had a few too many late nights enjoying the local wine on holiday.

5. Keep a facial mist handy
One of my favourite discoveries is the magic of a good facial mist. I keep one in my handbag and another in the fridge, ready to spritz when my skin feels hot, dry or dull. Look for mists that include ingredients like rosewater, aloe vera, or chamomile—they hydrate and soothe without disturbing your makeup.

Tip: Use a mist before moisturiser to prep the skin, or throughout the day to freshen up. It’s like giving your face a little summer drink.

And when your skin needs more than DIY...
Sometimes, no matter how well we care for our skin, it just needs a little professional boost. That’s where my hydrating facials come in. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday or recovering after too much sun, these treatments deeply nourish and repair the skin—leaving you with that dewy, glowing look we all love.

And while you’re at it, why not go full-body? My body transformation treatments are perfect for getting beach-ready with confidence. Whether you're looking to contour, tone, smooth or simply feel amazing in your skin, we’ve got a range of options to help you feel your best.

So as the school bell rings one last time and the car boot gets filled to bursting with beach gear, don’t forget to pack a little love for your skin too. Here’s to sun, sea, sand—and skin that glows from the inside out!