As temperatures rise, our skin often becomes a battleground.
Sun exposure, heat, humidity, and sunscreen can all contribute to irritation, clogged pores, and excess oil. That’s where natural oils shine. With the right essential and carrier oils, you can build a summer skincare routine that’s light, nourishing, and packed with natural goodness.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to keep your skin glowing all summer using only pure essential oils and approved natural ingredients. Say goodbye to heavy creams and synthetic overload, hello, botanical brilliance.
Why Use Natural Oils in the Summer?
Using essential oils for summer skincare is a powerful way to care for your complexion without clogging pores or overloading your skin.
Benefits include:
- Natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory support
- Lightweight hydration for all skin types
- Aromatherapeutic benefits to boost mood and calm the senses
Oils like Lavender, Tea Tree, and Geranium offer multi-tasking benefits that are perfect for sunny-day skin woes.
Build Your Natural Summer Skincare Routine
1. Cleanse Gently with Witch Hazel & Geranium
Ditch harsh cleansers. Instead, try a soothing, clarifying cleansing routine using witch hazel (a natural astringent) paired with Geranium essential oil.
Geranium helps balance oil production and tightens pores, making it ideal for combination or acne-prone summer skin.
How to use: Mix 100ml witch hazel with 6–8 drops of Geranium oil in a bottle. Shake well and apply to a reusable cotton pad. Wipe gently over your face to remove impurities and prep your skin.
2. Soothe and Hydrate with Aloe & Lavender
After cleansing, your skin is ready to drink up some hydration. Aloe vera gel combined with a drop or two of Lavender essential oil makes a light, cooling, and calming summer hydrator.
Lavender is well known for its skin-soothing properties, perfect after sun exposure or shaving.
DIY Summer Skin Soother:
- 50ml aloe vera gel
- 4–6 drops of Lavender oil
- Optional: a dash of cooled green tea for extra antioxidants
- Store in the fridge for extra refreshment!
3. Lightweight Facial Oil for Daytime Glow
Avoid heavy creams in summer. Instead, opt for a custom facial oil blend using light carrier oils and non-comedogenic essential oils.
Recommended oils:
- Grapeseed oil (lightweight, great for oily or acne-prone skin)
- Petitgrain essential oil (helps tone and clarify)
- Ylang Ylang III essential oil (balances oil and supports skin health)
DIY Facial Oil Blend:
- 30ml grapeseed oil
- 3 drops Petitgrain oil
- 3 drops Ylang Ylang oil
Apply 2–3 drops to damp skin in the morning to lock in moisture and boost glow.
4. Target Blemishes Naturally
Heat and sweat can trigger breakouts. For a natural spot treatment, Tea Tree oil is your summer best friend.
How to use:
Dilute 1 drop of Tea Tree oil in 1 tsp of a carrier oil like jojoba or grapeseed. Dab directly onto blemishes once or twice daily.
Optional night blend: Add Juniper Berry for added detoxifying support.
5. After-Sun Skin Recovery Oil
Too much sun? Make your own after-sun repair blend with Lavender and Cedarwood Atlas - two oils known for calming skin and reducing redness.
Soothing After-Sun Oil:
- 30ml sweet almond oil
- 4 drops Lavender oil
- 2 drops Cedarwood oil
- 1 tsp aloe vera gel (optional)
Gently massage into warm skin after sun exposure to cool and comfort.
6. Mist Your Way to Radiance
A hydrating mist helps maintain moisture levels throughout the day.
DIY Facial Mist:
- 100ml distilled water or rose water
- 1 tsp witch hazel
- 2 drops Geranium oil
- 2 drops Petitgrain or Lavender
Shake before each use and spritz as needed, especially if you’ve been outdoors.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Light, Keep It Natural
A good summer skincare routine with essential oils should be:
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Calming and balancing
- Packed with botanical goodness
With essential oils like Tea Tree, Lavender, Geranium, and Ylang Ylang, you can enjoy beautiful, balanced skin all summer, naturally.
Disclaimer:
Information and other content provided in Lily & Loaf blogs should not be construed as medical advice and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical expertise. If you have any medical concerns, you should consult with your health care provider.
