Freshen Up: 10 Summer Grooming Swaps Every Man Should Make

Winter grooming is about survival. Summer grooming? That’s about control — controlling shine, sweat, smells and surprise sunburns. The products that saw you through cold winds and central heating will not save you when the mercury rises and your face feels like it’s melting by 10AM.

Here’s the truth: your grooming routine should shift with the seasons. Just like you wouldn’t wear an overcoat to the beach, you shouldn’t be layering on a rich moisturiser in 30°C heat. So, we’ve compiled the ultimate grooming swaps every man should make for summer — for skin that behaves, hair that holds, and scent that doesn’t assault.

Moisturiser

From Heavy Cream to Lightweight SPF

Thick creams trap heat, clog pores and encourage breakouts. In the colder months, they’re your best mate. But in summer, they become your skin’s worst enemy.

Instead, go for a lightweight, gel-based formula that hydrates without suffocating. Ideally, it will include a broad-spectrum SPF to shield you from those age-accelerating rays.

Look for products labelled non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog your pores, and if you’re on the oilier side, ingredients like niacinamide can help reduce shine.

Cleanser

From Occasional Splash to Twice-Daily Rinse

Summer means more sweat, more SPF and more grime. If your idea of face washing is a quick splash of water, you’re storing up problems. Your skin needs a proper cleanse morning and night to remove build-up and prevent breakouts.

Go for a gentle gel or foam cleanser if your skin is oily, or a creamy one if it runs dry. For those prone to acne or congestion, a product that includes salicylic acid can make a huge difference.

Deodorant

From Basic to Full Protection

There’s a massive difference between not smelling bad and actually smelling good. In summer, you need something that does more than just delay the inevitable.

Antiperspirants are your first line of defence, blocking sweat and reducing odour, while natural deodorants focus on masking smell without stopping the sweat.

Go for the right one for your body and your lifestyle, but don’t be afraid to upgrade from that old standby you’ve been using since uni.

Fragrance

From Dark & Woody to Light & Fresh

What works in winter — smoky woods, spicy ambers, rich ouds — will feel like a sledgehammer in summer. Fragrance blooms in heat, and heavy scents can become overpowering fast.

The summer alternative? Go for crisp citruses, aquatic notes, airy florals and green accords. Due to their lower concentration, Eau de toilettes or colognes tend to work better in the heat.

And don’t just spray it on your skin; hit your clothes, too. Natural fabrics hold scent better and help you stay smelling fresher longer.

Hair Styling

From Glossy to Dry Texture

Winter may have allowed for high-shine pomades and heavy waxes, but summer demands lighter, matte-finish products that won’t melt and run down your face.

A dry clay, paste or sea salt spray offers texture and hold without that weighed-down feel. And remember to wash your hair thoroughly to eliminate product build-up — especially important if you’re swimming regularly or sweating more than usual.

Body Wash

From Gel to An Exfoliator

Exfoliating in summer is crucial for removing dead skin cells, preventing ingrown hairs and keeping bacne at bay. Go for a scrub or a body wash with chemical exfoliants like glycolic or salicylic acid a couple of times a week.

The result? Smoother, clearer skin that looks and feels good. And if you want an extra edge, try something with a cooling sensation, like peppermint or menthol.

Facial Hair

From Overgrown to Groomed/Gone

Facial hair traps sweat, oil and bacteria, which can lead to irritation and spots. If you’re keeping the beard, commit to proper maintenance: using a dedicated beard wash, softening oil and comb/brush to keep things tidy.

If you prefer the freshness of being clean-shaven, invest in a soothing post-shave balm to calm the skin, particularly if you’re in the sun. Aloe and chamomile are great ingredients for reducing redness and inflammation.

Feet

From Hobbit to Acceptable

If you’re breaking out the sandals or slides, please make sure your feet aren’t offensive. Use a foot file in the shower to remove rough skin, moisturise them daily, and consider a foot spray or powder to keep things dry and odour-free.

It’s basic maintenance, but it makes a massive difference.

Sun Protection

From Occasional Use to Daily Habit

Daily SPF is non-negotiable. Whether you’re walking the dog, working outside or downing a well-deserved pint in the beer garden, UV rays are ageing your skin daily.

Go for an SPF 30 or higher, and make it part of your morning routine, not just something you slap on at the beach. If you’re outside for long periods, reapply every couple of hours. No exceptions.

Skincare Storage

From Cupboard to Fridge

Keeping your moisturiser, eye cream or facial mist in the fridge doesn’t just feel incredible on a hot day — it also helps reduce puffiness and soothe irritated skin.

Go for this simple upgrade if you want your skincare to feel more like self-care.