The Ultimate Summer Body Care Routine for Hydrated, Radiant Skin

Every year, my skin lets me know summer is around the corner—usually the second I grab my favorite pair of shorts and realize, oof… I’ve been ignoring everything from the neck down. While my face routine is pretty dialed in (you can read about it here), my summer body care routine? Let’s just say it needed some love.

That changed when I stumbled on a few viral body products that seriously live up to the hype. Now, I actually look forward to this little ritual—it’s simple, it smells amazing, and it leaves my skin soft, hydrated, and ready for sunshine. If you’re looking for a summer body care routine that’s low-effort but high-reward, you’re in the right place. Spoiler: the African exfoliating net sponge completely changed my shower routine—thank you to the Black girl shower routines on TikTok for putting me onto that gem. And a huge shoutout to Nina Pool for introducing me to my new favorite lotion. Total bliss.

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My Summer Body Care Routine

Dry Brushing Before Shower

Dry brushing is a step I never skip now—it wakes up my skin and gets things moving before I hop in the shower. Dry brushing makes my skin feel smoother instantly, and there’s something so satisfying about that quick, invigorating ritual before jumping into the shower. Plus, it gets your circulation going in the best way.

Here’s why dry brushing deserves a spot in your summer body care routine:

• Gently exfoliates dry, flaky skin
  Removes dead skin cells so your skin looks fresher and feels baby soft.
• Boosts circulation and lymphatic flow
  Stimulates blood flow and helps support your body’s natural detox process.
• May reduce the appearance of cellulite
  While it’s not a miracle cure, consistent brushing can temporarily smooth the skin’s surface.
• Unclogs pores and preps skin for moisture
  Helps your lotions and oils absorb more effectively post-shower.
• Feels energizing and calming at the same time
  Think of it as a mini massage that wakes you up but also helps release tension.

A quick note on the science:
Dry brushing is one of those rituals that’s been around forever, especially in Ayurvedic practices, but the science is still catching up. There aren’t many medical studies to back up claims like lymphatic drainage or cellulite reduction, but dermatologists do agree it’s a great way to exfoliate and boost circulation at the surface level. For me, it just makes my skin feel smoother and gives me that energized, fresh-start feeling—which is reason enough to keep it in my summer body care routine.

What I use:

EcoTools Dry Body Brush

Cleansing with a Gentle Soap

After dry brushing, I always start my shower routine with a solid cleanse. This step might seem simple, but using the rightcleanser has made a huge difference in how my skin feels afterward. Some days I reach for my tried-and-true Dove Beauty Bar—other days, when I want a little extra glow and hydration, it’s all about the Natrium Glow Getter.

This step in my summer body care routine makes sure my skin is fresh, clean, and ready to soak up all the goodness that follows.

Here’s why cleansing matters:

• Washes away sweat, sunscreen, and buildup
  Especially in the summer when you’re outside more and your skin goes through it.
• Keeps skin clear without drying it out
  The right cleanser removes impurities while still respecting your skin’s natural oils.
• Creates a fresh base for exfoliating and moisturizing
  Cleansing helps everything else work better—your scrub, your lotion, even your body mist.

What I use:

Natrium Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash 

A rich, hydrating oil-to-lather formula that makes my skin feel like silk. It’s packed with nourishing oils and leaves behind a glow without any greasy feel. Think spa moment, but in your own shower.

Dove Beauty Bar 

A gentle classic that never lets me down.

Exfoliating in the Shower

Once I’ve dry brushed, it’s time to exfoliate in the shower—and honestly, this step feels the most luxurious. There’s just something about buffing away all that dry, dull skin and stepping out feeling soft and smooth that makes me feel like I have my life together (even if I don’t). It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference in my summer body care routine.

I rotate between a few tools and products depending on my mood, but my African exfoliating net sponge is a non-negotiable—especially for my back. If you’ve never tried one, it’s a game changer. It stretches, it scrubs, and it dries quickly (no funky loofah smell!).

Here’s why exfoliating is a must for glowing summer skin:

• Removes dead skin buildup
  Buffs away rough patches and flakes so your skin feels smoother to the touch.
• Prevents ingrown hairs and razor bumps
  Especially helpful if you shave or wax during the summer.
• Helps even out skin tone and texture
  Exfoliating regularly can give your skin a brighter, more radiant appearance.
• Maximizes product absorption
  When you exfoliate first, your oils and lotions can actually soak in instead of just sitting on top of the skin.
• Preps skin for self-tanning or a natural summer glow
  Smooth skin = an even, streak-free tan (faux or sun-kissed).

A Note on Over-Exfoliation: Exfoliating can make your skin feel amazing, but overdoing it? Not so much. It can lead to irritation, sensitivity, or even damage your skin’s barrier—especially with physical scrubs. According to Healthline, 1 to 3 times per week is usually just right, depending on your skin type and exfoliation method. Trust me—your skin will thank you for the balance.

What I use:

Exfoliating Gloves 

Fantastic for exfoliating your feet!

Tree Hut Body Scrub

Smells amazing and leaves my skin buttery soft.

Moisturizing While Skin is Damp

This is the magic step. Let’s talk about one of the easiest changes I made that gave me the biggest glow-up—moisturizing while my skin is still damp. I used to hop out of the shower, towel off, and forget about lotion until later (if at all). But once I started applying my lotions right away, it made a huge difference. My skin stays soft and hydrated all day, and I’m not constantly reapplying or dealing with dry patches. It turns out there’s even science behind it—your skin actually holds onto moisture better when you seal it in while it’s still slightly wet. Who knew such a simple shift could make everything feel a little more luxurious?

Why this combo?

• Applying on damp skin seals in moisture
• Oils provide deep hydration while lotions soften
• Helps maintain skin’s natural barrier

The Science Behind Moisturizing Damp Skin: A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that applying moisturizer immediately after bathing significantly increased the water content in the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin) compared to delayed application. The study concluded that moisturizing damp skin enhances the skin’s hydration levels and supports its barrier function.

Source:
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021 – View on PubMed

My faves:

Eco Shea Butter Body Lotion 

I’ve been using the Vanilla Cashmere scent lately and to me—it smells just like cupcakes. So good. What I really love is how lightweight it feels going on, but it still leaves my skin super moisturized without feeling sticky or greasy. I can’t stand lotion that leaves my skin sticky!!! It sinks right in when I apply it to damp skin, and I don’t have to wait around to get dressed. If you’re looking for something that smells amazing and keeps your skin soft all day, this one’s a keeper.

Palmers Raw Shea Nourish Lotion in Vanilla

This one’s a bit richer and thicker—which my reptilian skin absolutely loves. And guess what? Still not sticky. 🙌 I’ll even mix it with my EOS Vanilla Cashmere lotion sometimes, and it’s chef’s kiss. The combo is the perfect balance of deep moisture and sweet, cozy scent. If your skin’s craving that extra layer of hydration without the mess, this one’s for you.

For My Feet

Let’s be real—summer = sandals, and sandals mean my heels need extra love. I don’t do fancy pedicures, but I do have a little system that works. I use exfoliating gloves mainly on my feet (especially in the shower after dry brushing), and then follow up with Kerasal Intensive Foot Repair—aka the stuff that makes my heels look like I actually take care of them.

If your feet get dry, cracked, or a little “ehh” looking by midsummer, this combo is your new best friend.

Kerasal Intensive Foot Repair

This is my holy grail product for smooth feet. Ever since I started using it regularly, my heels haven’t gotten anywhere near the cracked, painful mess they used to be (yep—even the kind that bleeds 💀). It’s that effective. And the best part? If you stay consistent, you won’t even need one of those scary foot files or “cheese graters” they break out during pedicures. Just smooth, healthy skin—no tools required.

My favorite way to use it:
At night, I slather it on and throw on a pair of soft socks. I wake up with feet that actually feel like they belong in sandals.

Finishing Touch: Body Mist

This is the part that just feels extra. After all the scrubbing, moisturizing, and pampering, I love giving my skin a little spritz of something that smells like summer in a bottle. It’s that final, feel-good step that makes me want to linger a little longer before getting dressed. Right now, I’m obsessed with Sol de Janeiro Body Mist No. 62—it’s warm, beachy, and just the right amount of bold. One spray and I’m instantly in vacation mode, even if I’m just heading to the grocery store.

Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Crush Cheirosa 62

Wrap Up: Why It’s Worth It

It took me a while to realize that taking care of your skin isn’t about being extra—it’s about showing up for yourself. This summer body care routine is quick, budget-friendly, and lets me feel confident in my skin (literally). If you’ve been meaning to upgrade your routine, let this be your sign.

And just a reminder—you don’t need high-end products to have beautiful, glowing, healthy skin. Most of the things I use are affordable, easy to find, and they work. It’s really about finding what feels good on your skin and sticking with it.

Oh—and don’t forget your sunscreen! Smooth, hydrated skin still needs protection, especially during those sunny summer days.

P.S. Want smooth summer skin from head to toe? Don’t miss my favorite foundations that play nice with rosacea-prone skin.