Surviving a South African summer requires a smart change in body care textures. Here is how to stay cool when the temperature rises.
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Swap heavy creams for lightweight gels.
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Utilise your fridge for extra cooling power.
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Look for ingredients like mint and aloe.
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Apply cooling mists for instant relief.
December in South Africa hits differently. But it’s not always pretty: the air is thick, the sun relentless, and the thought of slathering on thick body butter after a shower just sounds unbearable. Yet your skin still cries out for a little more hydration.
The secret to feeling more comfortable this summer is having a proper “cool-down strategy”. Find the best body mistsandcooling products to refresh your skin here.
Why You Should Swap Out Your Cream For Gel
The most effective change you can make is trading your rich winter creams for gel-based lotions. Gel formulas absorb instantly, sinking into the skin without leaving a greasy residue that traps sweat. They provide water-based hydration, which feels like a cool drink for your skin.
Look for formulas with "aqua" or "jelly" in the product name. These textures glide onto skin. A highly effective option is a lightweight cooling jelly that provides instant relief, such as theDermalogica Cooling Aqua Jelly.
Which Ingredients Actively Cool The Skin?
Be on the lookout for ingredients that trigger a physical cooling sensation when applied to the skin.
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Mint and Mentholgently stimulate the cold receptors in the skin, giving off a tingling freshness that lasts long after application. Look for dedicated moisturisers that actively lower skin temperature upon application (like the Bluebeards Revenge option).
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Aloe Verais a non-negotiable for its anti-inflammatory properties, which pull heat out of the skin and soothe the inevitable summer redness.
Stay Extra Cool With These Hacks
Abody mist is your on-the-go air conditioner. Keep a mist in your bag for a midday reset.
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Mists Rehydrate:Unlike perfume, cooling products often contain hydrating agents, allowing you to cool down and rehydrate your skin in a single spritz. (The Soopa Skin HOCl Rescue Mist is perfect for this.)
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The Fridge Hack: Store your products in the fridge to turn your daily routine into a cryotherapy session. Applying a chilled leg gel after a long day at the beach constricts capillaries and instantly calms flushed, overheated skin.
Stay fresh when the heat hits. Finding the right summer bodycare means knowing which cooling products offer lasting relief, not just a temporary fragrance. Have a look at our collection to build the ultimate cool-down kit this summer.
FAQS
Q: Do gel lotions hydrate as well as creams?
A: Yes, for the right purpose. While creams add oil, gels add water. In summer, your skin is often dehydrated (lacking water) rather than dry (lacking oil), making gels highly effective.
Q: Can I put any skincare product in the fridge?
A: Most water-based toners, gels, and sheet masks love the fridge. Avoid putting oil-based products or thick butters in there, as they may harden and become difficult to use.
Q: What is the best ingredient for sunburn?
A: Aloe Vera is the gold standard. It is anti-inflammatory and helps draw heat out of the skin while providing breathable hydration.
