When the sun is out, it’s time to shine. So we’ve done you the favour of whittling down how to glow from head to toe in three easy steps.

STEP ONE

EXFOLIATE

Exfoliation is the first step towards radiance. Why, you ask? Well, studies show that polishing your skin on the regular can help to boost circulation while removing build-up from dirt and dead skin cells. If we break that down a bit, an increase in blood circulation pumps oxygen to your skin, which then encourages your lymphatic drainage system to bring down inflammation. While all of that is going on, the process of sloughing away dead cells and trapped dirt and oil also works to resurface the skin, revealing clear, smooth skin underneath. Making way for new cells to shine through is important every season, but especially during summer when skin tends to be oilier and clogged. Another benefit of exfoliating is that it will help other skincare products penetrate deeper into the skin, thereby increasing their efficiency.

Which exfoliator is best for me?

All that said, you could be harming your skin if you’re not using the right exfoliant for you. And what’s more, over-exfoliating can cause irritation—so it’s important to do your research, and remember that when it comes to skincare, easy does it. Now that we know why you should exfoliate and we’ve gotten the precautions out the way, keep reading to learn the best exfoliators for each skin type.

The Best Face Exfoliators for Dry Skin

The Best Face Exfoliators for Sensitive Skin

The Best Face Exfoliators for Combination Skin

The Best Face Exfoliators for Oily and Acne-prone Skin

The Best Face Exfoliators for Mature Skin

The Best Body Exfoliators

STEP TWO

BOOST

Now that your skin is prepped, it’s time to infuse potent ingredients below the surface – and the best way to do that is with a serum. Our pick for summer? If glowing skin is your goal (whose isn’t???) then vitamin C is the serum you need. With free-radical-fighting, anti-inflammatory, melanin-inhibiting, and collagen-stimulating properties, it’s basically a glass of brightening orange juice for your skin. The natural antioxidant can help protect skin from oxidative damage from UV rays and pollution, clear acne, fade dark spots, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also proven to boost the effectiveness of sunscreen — overall, making it the perfect serum for summer.

Which vitamin C serum is best for me?

Not all vitamin C serums are created equal since they all have different formulations. Look for L-ascorbic acid (the purest form of vitamin C) or ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate (a more stable derivative) in the ingredients list. Look for a concentration between 10 and 20 percent but start off slow and pay attention to how your skin reacts. Air-tight packaging is also important, otherwise the active ingredient can break down.

The Best Vitamin C Serums for Dry Skin

The Best Vitamin C Serums for Sensitive Skin

The Best Vitamin C Serums for Combination Skin

The Best Vitamin C Serums for Oily and Acne-prone Skin

The Best Vitamin C Serums for Mature Skin

STEP THREE

MOISTURISE

Now it’s time to lock all that goodness in with a cream. Just because your skin is oilier in summer, doesn’t mean you should ditch your moisturiser. In fact, your skin produces oil to overcompensate for dryness. What you can do is switch from heavy moisturisers and opt for something lightweight instead.

Which moisturiser is best for me?

Our picks for the best summer moisturisers are fast-absorbing and lightweight, adding an instant hit of hydration without any unnecessary oils.

The Best Summer Face Moisturisers

The Best Body Moisturisers

Your ultimate summer glow starts here.

Yours in skin,

Dr Alek and the SkinMiles Team