By this point in the summer, I’ve settled into the routine that always seems to work for me. The beach bag is packed, weekends are spent outside whenever the weather cooperates, and I’ve found myself reaching for the same handful of products over and over again.

Over the years, I’ve realized that getting a beautiful summer glow isn’t about spending hours in the sun with no protection. It’s about looking after your skin before, during, and after you’re outside. The better you treat your skin, the better your tan looks—and the longer it lasts.

These are the products I’ve been using all summer long and the ones I know I’ll be repurchasing next year.

Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen

If there’s one thing I never skip, it’s sunscreen.

For my face, I always wear La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Fluid Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50+. It has just enough tint to even out my complexion on no-makeup days, it’s incredibly lightweight, and it doesn’t leave my skin feeling greasy. I always wear SPF 50+ on my face, no exceptions.

For my body, I’ve been loving Bondi Sands Sunscreen Lotion. I usually wear anywhere between SPF 30 and SPF 50 depending on the day, but I always make sure I’m protected before I head into the sun.

And here’s the reminder I wish more people believed: you will still tan while wearing sunscreen. It may take a little longer, but you’re protecting your skin from unnecessary damage while still getting that natural summer glow. Just don’t forget to reapply throughout the day, especially after swimming.

For a little extra glow

Lately, I’ve been using the Carroten Intensive Tanning Gel, and I really have been loving it.

It definitely helps enhance your tan, but I do have one warning: it’s tinted. If you’re using it, be mindful of light-coloured towels, swimsuits, or clothing because it can transfer. Once you know that going in, it’s easy enough to work around, but it’s worth mentioning.

Don’t skip the after-sun care

I used to think the tanning part ended when I packed up my beach bag, but I’ve learned that what you do afterwards is just as important. Keeping your skin hydrated not only feels better, but it helps your tan look healthier and last longer, too.

One of my summer staples is the Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion. It’s so cooling after a long day in the sun, and if you keep it in the fridge, it’s even better. There is nothing quite like putting it on after you’ve been outside all afternoon.

If I don’t have it on hand, I always reach for my Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream. It’s a little thicker, so a little goes a long way, but it leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft and hydrated.

And if a beach day turns into dinner on a patio or drinks with friends, I’ve been obsessed with the Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Moisturizing Body Oil. I’ll smooth a little over my shoulders, collarbones, arms, and legs before I head out, and it gives my skin the prettiest healthy glow. It catches the light so nicely without looking glittery, and the best part is that it continues to hydrate your skin all night long.

A little reminder

A summer tan will always fade, but healthy skin never goes out of style.

Wear the sunscreen. Reapply it. Moisturize afterwards. Drink plenty of water. Your skin can still develop a beautiful, natural glow without sacrificing its health.

Sometimes the simplest routines really are the best ones.

Love, Laura