Women who live in the hottest countries share their sun skincare routine
Rachael Martin
Beauty & skincare
Reading time: 11 minutes
From Nigeria to Australia & the US, five women give us the lowdown on how they keep their complexions cool, calm & collected in the face of extreme heat – & how we can do the same on our holidays or here, when temperatures start to rise
Whether you’ve got that holiday booked, or are counting on a UK heatwave (fingers crossed), nothing quite beats the joy that some sunshine can bring. But while we shouldn’t complain, there’s always something to grapple with on blazing hot days. Our beauty routine, in particular.
Yup, we’re talking about everything from burnt noses to chafing thighs. Thankfully, we’re privy to a group of women who have all the secrets on dealing with hot-weather beauty. How? Because they live in some of the hottest countries in the world. From Nigeria to Australia and Singapore to Florida, these women have all the tips and tricks when it comes to perfecting our skincare and make-up when the temperature rises. So, whether it’s dealing with those ‘embarrassing’ hot-weather hassles that we all struggle with, or wondering what SPF could work well for you, here’s their insider info on getting gorgeous, glowing skin this summer.
Your make-up is only as good as your skin.
Meet… Sarah-Louise
I’m a 30-year-old Northern Irish expat living north of Sydney where I’ve been for more than five years. I own grow getter, an email marketing agency, and mimi and frank, a demi-fine jewellery store.
My relationship with my skin is…
Evolving. I’ve dealt with hormonal acne in the past and after one too many flare-ups in our humid summers, I finally took steps to fix it. “Your make-up is only as good as your skin” is something I stand by and, honestly, I most like myself when I go barefaced. However, I still struggle with acne and excess oil.
How is your approach to skincare different now compared to 10 years ago?
When I was 20, I would wash my face with the latest “hyped” cleanser and call it a day. Now I understand it’s about knowledge, consistency and accepting that bad skin days are a rite of passage. Now, I don’t buy skincare products on a whim, I religiously wash my face and I think facials are an underrated confidence booster.
I never leave the house without…
Lanolips Lip Ointment with Colour SPF15 Rhubarb. I love going make-up-free and this adds a perfect pop of colour to my complexion.
How do you stop your make-up from melting off?
NYX Professional Makeup Setting Spray – Dewy Finish, is my holy grail. I once read a review about a girl who wore this, was hit by a car AND hospitalised, but her make-up didn’t come off (she did make a full recovery!). I can attest; it’s amazing.
My skincare routine consists of…
I begin my day by religiously reaching for my cooling EcoTools – Dual ended Jade Roller, and a coffee. They’re my ultimate “I look awake” duo. I normally go for a walk immediately after, which means I apply just over half a teaspoon of Lancaster Sun Perfect Fluid SPF50 High Protection, – it’s my fail-safe.
At night, I cleanse with cold water and usually follow up with The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, or a retinol*. I’ve got olive skin, but my face is pale, so I adore the Bondi Sands Pure Self Tanning Sleep Mask. The result is so natural.
Shower or bath?
As it’s so hot here, I shower morning and at night, which calls for boujee shower supplies. I love anything luxurious – Kiehl’s Creme de Corps Smoothing Oil-to-Foam Body Cleanser, is often my go-to.
Any tips for dealing with the not-so-embarrassing things all women experience in hot weather?
I get salon laser hair removal. Not only does it decrease underarm BO, it eliminates ingrown hairs and last-minute leg shaving. During Covid, I bought an at-home device. It takes longer to see results, but it’s effective.
My ultimate skincare tip is…
Add lymphatic drainage into your skincare routine – it stimulates blood flow and helps reduce water retention. My sister-in-law also gave me some great advice: whenever I feel upset by how my skin looks, she always calmly reminds me, “It will pass”. And you know what? It does.
Sarah-Louise’s favourite splurge beauty product
Lancôme Advanced Génifique Hydrating Face Serum
- Size: 50ml
- Contains prebiotic and probiotic-derived extracts
Taking inspo from Sarah-Louise’s gorgeous, glowy skin? Turns out her favourite splurge serum is by Lancôme and it’s great for helping to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier.
I like a quick and simple routine with the occasional “treat yourself” mask thrown in.
Meet…Yemisi
I’ve lived in Nigeria for almost six years. I’m a public health professional for a health tech company and I lead the research operations team.
My relationship with my skin is…
Good now, although it’s been a bit tumultuous as I suffer from eczema. I was prescribed a steroid cream and when I stopped, I went through horrendous withdrawal. This resulted in acne and dry patches. Only now, after serious research, am I back on track to loving my skin. I like a quick and simple routine with the occasional “treat yourself” mask thrown in.
How is your approach to skincare different now compared to 10 years ago?
I’ve come to realise that less is more, and the importance of not overcomplicating things. My main concern now is limiting sun exposure (meaning avoiding the hottest parts of the day) and sweating.
I never leave the house without…
Nivea Lip Balm, Hydro Care with SPF15. It’s the only lip balm I’ve found to provide long-lasting nourishment in the heat. One of the brands that really helped when I was struggling with my steroid withdrawal was Avène. I love its Hydrance Rich-UV Hydrating Cream SPF30.
How do you stop your make-up from melting off?
I use a Nigerian, black-owned beauty brand called Nuban Beauty and I swear by its make-up, which stays put on even the hottest of days. Rimmel London Exaggerate Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, is another foolproof option.
My skincare routine consists of…
I use a cleanser, toner and exfoliant by another Nigerian, black-owned brand called Skin by Zaron. This is followed by Avène Hydrance Intense Rehydrating Serum, and the above mentioned Avène hydrating cream for a dose of SPF. Night-time is a more simple process using a cleansing oil, and The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane*.
Shower or bath?
Definitely shower. In terms of shower scents, I love anything fresh with eucalyptus or lemon in it. Dove Reviving Body Wash Pomegranate & Verbena, is gorgeous! I handle any ingrown hairs using a good loofah.
Any tips for dealing with the not-so-embarrassing things all women experience in hot weather?
Sweaty, smelly feet aren’t an issue for me, but they are for my husband. I recently bought him Boots Foot and Shoe Spray. It keeps feet feeling fresh and helps prevent shoe odour.
My ultimate beauty advice is…
Use a toner for unclogged pores all the way! And exfoliate at least once a week. It removes excess sebum – a necessity when it’s hot.
I often see influencers espousing new wonder products, but it’s important not to get swept up by that hype. You have to find what works for you.
Meet…Ruth
I'm 42 and married with three kids. I’m from Northern Ireland and now live in Singapore, where I’ve been since 2009. I work in Google APAC’s Strategy & Operations team.
My relationship with my skin is…
Improving. In Singapore, the minimum daytime temperature is 30°C and relative humidity is in the range of 70-80%. To counter this, we have a love affair with air con and I always make sure I avoid the midday sun. One thing’s for sure, my skincare works overtime!
How is your approach to skincare different now compared to 10 years ago?
As I’ve learned to understand my skin, I’ve been able to take better care of it. I’d suggest seeing a dermatologist if you’re ever struggling. I’ve dealt with sensitivity and some redness in the past and was prescribed a medicated cream, which really helped. Since then, I’ve paid more attention to my complexion. It took me a while to realise that you’ve got to stick with your products to see the benefits.
Often, I see influencers espousing new wonder products on social media, but it’s important not to get swept up by that hype – or if you’re curious, try a sample first.
I never leave the house without…
SPF. I’m a big fan of La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sun Protection Face Mist. It provides SPF50 protection, has a lovely texture and I keep it topped up every two hours if I’m out and about.
How do you stop your make-up from melting off?
For make-up that isn’t affected by the heat and humidity, IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Illumination SPF 50+, is worth the hype. It contains collagen for a natural radiance that lasts all day.
My skincare routine consists of…
I start by cleansing with Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash. Then I’ll moisturise with something fragrance-free. If you’re prone to dry skin or even blemishes, this can help prevent irritation. At night, I keep things simple by using the same Kiehl’s cleanser, followed by Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator.
Shower or bath?
I love a shower. Luxurious, fruity shower scents, such as lime or blackberry, make me feel great.
Any tips for dealing with the not-so-embarrassing things all women experience in hot weather?
For deodorant, I buy Nivea Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Spray, Double Effect, 48 Hours Deo, which is amazing for offering protection against BO and sweat.
My ultimate beauty advice is…
Cleanse really well, and find a moisturiser that suits your skin type. It doesn’t have to be crazy expensive – be patient and find one that works.
Drink more water than you think you need to and always use SPF50. Simple, but honestly life changing.
Meet…Vishali
I've lived in sunny Sydney for four years and I work in finance – it’s all go!
My relationship with my skin is…
I’m forever learning with my skin. It’s been fairly unproblematic, but since moving to a hot country, I’ve noticed it change in texture. I’ve taken time over the last few years (especially during the lockdowns) to be kinder to my complexion. I always use more than one moisturiser, drink lots of water and try to be mindful about what I’m actually putting into my body.
How is your approach to skincare different now compared to 10 years ago?
I’ve learned to drink more water than I think I need to and always use La Roche-Posay Anthelios Age Correct SPF50, £25 – it sits very well under make-up. Simple, yes, but honestly life changing.
I never leave the house without…
I’m obsessed with Dr.PawPaw Original Balm. It’s packed full of skin-nourishing goodness like papaya fruit and aloe vera.
How do you stop your make-up from melting off?
My top tip is using a damp Beautyblender Original, to apply foundation. This gives a dewy look that is absolutely perfect when going for brunch in the sun.
My skincare routine consists of…
In the morning, I begin with a water-based cleanser then follow with a face mist. I then use Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum – it’s a firm favourite thanks to the skin-plumping antioxidants. I then apply my SPF50 – a non-negotiable. In the evenings, I double cleanse, use retinol*, and then opt for an overnight mask for added nourishment.
Shower or bath?
I love a good bath. I don’t have to deal with hair removal regularly as laser removal is big in Australia (and the cheapest option, believe it or not!).
Any tips for dealing with the not-so-embarrassing things all women experience in hot weather?
Deodorant is a must. I always choose a high-strength option, such as Sure Maximum Protection Anti-perspirant Cream Stick Clean Scent, to keep myself feeling fresh. I also like a mattifying powder to keep shine at bay. Benefit Dr Feelgood Silky Mattifying Powder, is amazing for giving you a fresh-looking complexion.
My ultimate beauty advice is…
Invest in you. And always moisturise – even if you think your skin is too oily.
Vishali’s favourite splurge beauty product
Fenty Skin Instant Reset Overnight Recovery Gel-Cream
- Size: 50ml
- Non-comedogenic
Need some extra TLC? Fenty has got you covered with its overnight recovery gel mask. Perfect for after sun exposure, Vishali likes to use it as the final step in her night-time routine.
My mantra is “love the skin you're in".
Meet…Donna
I’ve been a beauty editor for more than 20 years. This experience led me to start my own content and brand consultancy company, The Beauty Ed Inc. I moved to Florida with my husband and two sons in September 2021. A big lifestyle change!
My relationship with my skin is…
I have always had a positive relationship with my skin. My mantra is “love the skin you're in”. I’m very much part of the #nofilter movement, and I’ve followed this throughout my life. Now, living in Florida, my main skin concern is sun damage and ageing. I make sure I go beyond just applying an SPF. I wear hats and sunglasses, and cover up with clothes.
How is your approach to skincare different now compared to 10 years ago?
When I was younger, I was lucky with my skin, which I attributed to genes. However, growing up in the 80s, people weren’t as educated about the dangers of the sun. Now, I’m extra careful.
Skincare to me now is about self-care, and I’m strict about taking my make-up off properly. I use products with luxe textures and smells to make the process relaxing.
I never leave the house without…
SPF. I do love Ambre Solaire Super UV Anti-age Face Protection Cream SPF50. Not only does this cream offer great protection against UV rays, but it helps keep the appearance of wrinkles at bay thanks to two hero ingredients – hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.
How do you stop your make-up from melting off?
Less is more. I wear a lightweight base, such as Max Factor Miracle Pure Skin Improving Foundation, which has added skincare benefits. I don’t really wear mascara as I find it smudges quickly, so I just curl my lashes.
My skincare routine consists of…
In the morning, I massage a balm or cream cleanser into my skin. Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, is great. A trick I’ve learned from facialists is finishing with cold water. I’ll then apply a serum and a moisturiser with SPF. At night, I’ll follow my cleansing with No7 Pure Retinol Night Repair Cream*, or, if I’m not using that, a relaxing lavender face oil.
Shower or bath?
Shower – I get too restless in the bath. I shave my arms and lower legs every day and I try to use a body scrub every week as my skin is more exposed to the sun. This also helps minimise ingrown hairs.
Any tips for dealing with the not-so-embarrassing things all women experience in hot weather?
I use a roll-on deodorant rather than sprays as I feel they are less drying. Dove Invisible Care Anti-perspirant Deodorant Roll-On, keeps me smelling fresh. For things like thigh chafing, it’s important to keep the skin dry, so I always take a towel out with me.
My ultimate beauty advice is…
Ageing skin is dry skin so moisturise! Use a hyaluronic acid serum to keep skin healthy and hydrated. Also, diet can play a big part in skin health. Your skin is your largest organ, treat it well.
Donna’s favourite splurge beauty product
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex
- Size: 50ml
- Oil-free
In need of a fast-absorbing serum that reduces the appearance of environmental wear and tear? Us too. This one’s perfect for when that drying hot weather hits.
So there we have it, the beauty tips from the women who live in some of the hottest countries in the world. Whether you like to take time to indulge in your beauty rituals like Sarah-Louise or identify better with Donna’s “less is more” mantra, there’s definitely more than just a few nuggets of advice to better equip you with your own approach to hot-weather beauty. Bring on that sunshine…
