Summer Glow: The Best Products for Golden, Radiant Skin
There's something magical about summer skin — that effortless, sun-kissed radiance that makes you look like you've just returned from a beach holiday. But here's the secret: you don't need actual sun exposure (and the damage that comes with it) to achieve that golden glow.
I've tested dozens of products to find the absolute best for creating that lit-from-within summer look. Whether you want subtle luminosity or full-on bronze goddess vibes, this guide has you covered.
The Foundation: Healthy, Hydrated Skin
Before we get to the fun stuff, remember that the best glow starts with well-prepped skin. Dehydrated skin looks dull, no matter how much highlighter you pile on.
Must-Have Base Products
Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream (£68 at Cult Beauty)
This is my holy grail for summer. It gives skin that plump, hydrated, dewy finish that photographs beautifully. The Japanese botanicals leave skin looking like glass.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (£6.20 at Superdrug)
Layer this under your moisturiser for next-level hydration. Plump, hydrated skin reflects light better — it's science!
Tatcha The Water Cream (£62 at Cult Beauty)
For oily skin types, this lightweight gel cream delivers hydration without heaviness, leaving a natural luminous finish.
SPF That Actually Glows
Please, please wear SPF. But gone are the days of chalky, white-cast sunscreens. These formulas protect AND enhance your glow:
Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 (£34 at Space NK)
The name says it all. This pearlescent sunscreen gives an instant lit-from-within glow while protecting your skin. It's become a cult favourite for good reason.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid (£18 at Boots)
If you prefer invisible protection, this lightweight formula disappears completely and works beautifully under makeup.
Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Glow Luminous Moisturiser (£12.99 at Boots)
Budget-friendly with a gorgeous subtle shimmer. Perfect for everyday summer protection.
The Bronzers: Sculpt & Warm
A good bronzer is essential for that sun-kissed look. Here are my favourites for different finishes:
Cream/Liquid Bronzers (Most Natural)
e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter (£14 at Superdrug)
This viral product deserves the hype. It's a complexion booster that gives the most natural, diffused warmth. Mix with foundation or wear alone for an effortless glow.
Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Bronzer Stick (£26 at Space NK)
Creamy, blendable, and buildable. The perfect shade range means everyone can find their match.
Powder Bronzers (Buildable & Long-Lasting)
Benefit Hoola Matte Bronzer (£32 at Boots)
The classic. This matte bronzer works on virtually every skin tone and gives the most natural-looking warmth.
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Bronzer (£49 at Charlotte Tilbury)
Expensive but worth it. The finely-milled powder melts into skin and looks like you've spent a week in Ibiza.
Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer (£30 at Cult Beauty)
Smells like chocolate, looks like vacation. The matte finish is perfect for contouring and all-over warmth.
Highlighters: The Glow-Up
This is where the magic happens. Strategic highlighting makes skin look healthy, youthful, and radiant.
Natural Glow (Everyday)
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter (£39 at Charlotte Tilbury)
Not technically a highlighter, but this complexion booster gives the most beautiful, natural glow. Use under foundation or tap onto high points.
Glossier Futuredew (£22 at Glossier)
The "just finished a facial" look in a tube. This oil-serum hybrid gives a realistic dewy finish that lasts.
Intense Glow (Going Out)
Fenty Beauty Killawatt Highlighter (£28 at Boots)
Rihanna knows glow. These highlighters are INTENSE but blend beautifully for a blinding highlight or subtle sheen.
MAC Extra Dimension Skinfinish (£32 at MAC)
Buildable from sheer to show-stopping. The shade "Double Gleam" is perfect for summer.
Body Glow: Don't Forget Your Limbs!
Summer means more skin on show. These products make arms and legs look incredible:
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream (£48 at Cult Beauty)
The smell, the shimmer, the softness — this body cream is a summer essential. The subtle gold shimmer catches the light beautifully.
The Body Shop Honey Bronze Drops of Sun (£16 at The Body Shop)
Mix with your body lotion for a customisable, natural-looking tan and glow.
Vita Liberata Body Blur (£29 at Look Fantastic)
Instant leg makeup! This washes off but makes your legs look flawless and subtly bronzed for events.
My Complete Summer Glow Routine
Here's exactly how I create my summer glow look:
Skincare Prep
Makeup
Body
Budget vs Luxury Picks
Under £15 Summer Glow Kit
Luxury Summer Glow Kit
Final Tips for the Perfect Summer Glow
Shop My Summer Glow Edit:
What's your go-to summer glow product? Let me know in the comments!
