Summer Skin Prep: Andrea's Real-Deal Favorites

Summer doesn’t exactly ease in—at least not for me. One minute I’m in a sweatshirt, the next I’m sweat-glazed and rummaging for sunscreen that (hopefully) hasn’t expired. As much as I love a golden glow, my skin needs a little extra help this time of year: hydration, exfoliation, and let’s be honest—some damage control. Cause like, so much more of it is about to be on display.

These are some products I actually use and genuinely love. They’re not the cheapest options out there (I see you, drugstore aisle), but after trying more things than I care to admit—from “holy grail” hype to quiet little underdogs—these are the ones that have earned their keep. They work. They feel good. And they make a visible difference, which is all I really ask.

Sometimes (but not always), you do get what you pay for. And these? They’re worth it. IMHO.

1. For Silky, Glow-Ready Skin:

LILIS Instant Peel
The perfect pre-game for smooth summer skin.

If you want your skin to look fresh, even, and like it belongs in the sun, exfoliation is non-negotiable. I love this peel because it’s gentle but wildly effective. You apply it on dry skin, massage in circular motions, and you can literally feel the dead skin lifting off (gross but SO satisfying). No redness, no irritation—just baby-soft skin ready for SPF, self-tanner, or shorts. Bonus: it’s great before shaving.

Use tip: Apply before a shower and rinse off with a little body wash. Feels like a mini spa moment without the whole robe-and-cucumber-water thing. But you can of course add that part in too if you like

2. For Breakout-Prone Body Moments:

Almond Clear Mandelic Acid Serum (Level 2)  or Almond Clear Mandelic Acid Serum (Level 2)
Because sunscreen is essential, but bacne isn’t.

Every summer like clockwork, sunscreen + sweat = clogged pores on my chest, shoulders, or back. This mandelic acid serum is a lifesaver. It gently exfoliates, fights bacteria, and helps fade those annoying post-breakout marks. I use it right after I towel off from the shower—just a few drops rubbed into any problem areas.

Use tip: If you’re prone to ingrown hairs or folliculitis, this also works wonders there. Start with every other day if you’re sensitive.

3. The In-Shower Hydration Hack:

Hanni Splash Salve or Hanni Splash Salve
Moisturizer for people who hate moisturizing.

This is one of those products I didn’t know I needed until I had it—and now I won’t go without it. You apply it in the shower (!!!), after cleansing but before toweling off, and it seals in moisture so your skin stays hydrated all day. No sticky lotion dance in a steamy bathroom. And the smell? Divine.

Use tip: I keep this in the shower and use it daily. I barely need body lotion now—and my legs thank me for it.

4. For When You Want Glow and Protection:

Alastin HydraTint SPF 36
Tinted sunscreen that makes me look like I’ve had sleep and maybe a facial.

This is my go-to on days I’m skipping foundation but still want to look alive. It gives a beautiful, sheer wash of color, blends like a dream, and leaves your skin feeling hydrated and protected. It’s skincare, SPF, and a little glow-up in one.

Use tip: I use this as my “base” most summer days—just this, a bit of fold out face concealer/powder/blush, and I’m out the door.

6. For That Pre-Tan or Post-Tan Glow:

MUTHA Body Butter Glow
Glowy limbs, coming right up.

This is the product when I want my skin to look like it drinks water and goes on vacation. It’s a luxe, whipped body butter that leaves behind a subtle shimmer—nothing glittery or tacky, just healthy, light-catching skin. I use it on collarbones, shoulders, shins… anywhere you want a little extra something. Can really make it go further too by adding a bit to other favorite moisturizers. 

Use tip: Apply after the Splash Salve for max hydration + glow. It also makes legs look amazing in shorts. Just saying.

7. For a Quick Glow-Up, Anytime:

ISAMAYA x Conserving Beauty Hyaluronic Cleansing Cloths
Hydration, glow, and no waste? Yes please.

These little cloths are like a glow shot for your face. They’re soaked in hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and panthenol (again)—so they hydrate, brighten, and soothe all at once. I use them in the morning if my skin’s looking dull or before bed when I want something easy and calming. Plus, they literally melt away with water, which is so cool and convenient.

Use tip: Keep them in your skincare fridge if you have one—they feel amazingly cool on the skin.

Summer skin doesn’t have to be fussy—it just needs to be cared for. A little exfoliation, a lot of hydration, and daily SPF go a long way. These (and a swipe of Woosh’s Spin-on® gloss in Glimmer) are the staples that help me feel like I’ve got my act together, even if I’m chasing kids in flip-flops and haven’t washed my hair in three days. Hope they help you feel a little more glowy, too.