How to Switch Your Korean Skincare Routine for Summer in South Africa

To switch your Korean skincare routine from winter to summer, keep gentle cleansing and daily sunscreen, then adjust your moisturiser and extra layers if they feel too heavy. You may need a lighter lotion or fewer steps, rather than a whole new routine.

If the cream you loved in July now feels sticky before you've left the house, start there.

Key takeaways

• Swap rich textures only if your skin needs it.
• Keep moisturising, even when your skin looks shiny.
• Use fewer optional layers rather than less sunscreen.
• Change one product at a time so you can tell what suits you.

Watch RuZu Skin Talk on moisturiser

In Episode 5 of RuZu Skin Talk, we explain how to choose a moisturiser for your skin: richer textures for dry skin and lighter options for oily skin. It’s a useful reminder for summer. Adjust the texture to suit you, while keeping your skin comfortable.

Who this guide is for

This guide is for anyone whose winter routine feels heavy as South Africa warms up. If your skin still feels dry and comfortable with your current cream, there is no need to replace it.

Not sure where to start? Read our guide to identifying your skin type.

Why does your routine feel different in summer?

A rich cream can be welcome during a dry Highveld winter but feel less comfortable on a humid Durban afternoon. Cape Town's summer heat and wind bring a different mix, while hours in air conditioning may leave your skin feeling tight.

Your location is a useful starting point. How your skin feels matters more.

What to keep and what to change

Keep gentle cleansing

Warmer weather is not a reason to reach for a harsher face wash. In its acne guidance, the Dermatology Society of South Africa recommends gentle cleansing and avoiding harsh scrubbing or over-cleansing. Stick with a cleanser that leaves your skin comfortable.

At night, remove sunscreen and makeup thoroughly. An oil or balm followed by a gentle cleanser can help when one cleanse isn't enough.

Try a lighter moisturiser

If your winter cream feels greasy or sits heavily under SPF, try a lighter lotion in the morning. Keep your richer cream for evenings or dry areas if it still works for you.

You don't need to throw out a half-used jar just because the season changed.

Trim the optional layers

Using a toner, essence and hydrating serum every morning? Try keeping just the one you find most useful. Fewer layers may feel better under sunscreen and makeup.

Keep any treatment that suits your skin and has a clear purpose. Summer does not call for a stronger exfoliant.

Keep sunscreen generous

Choose broad-spectrum SPF30 or higher and apply it as directed. CANSA’s March 2026 fact sheet recommends broad-spectrum SPF30 or higher for sun protection.

CANSA’s SunSmart advice is to reapply at least every two hours and after swimming, sweating or towel drying. It also recommends avoiding direct sun between 10am and 4pm. For beach days and exercise, choose a sunscreen labelled water-resistant, and use shade, protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat too.

A lighter texture should never mean a smaller amount. Our Korean sunscreen guide explains the different formats.

Where to start with RuZu Beauty

For lighter daily moisture

Daily moisturiser

Anua Heartleaf 70 Daily Lotion 200ml

A lightweight lotion with heartleaf extract, panthenol and betaine. Consider it if a rich morning cream feels heavy, particularly on oily or combination skin.

R489.00 R559.00Shop now →

Apply after any optional toner or serum, before sunscreen.

For daily sun protection with hydration

Daily sunscreen

K-Secret SEOUL 1988 Sun Collagen Complex 7 + Plum SPF50+ PA++++ 50ml

Broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection with collagen ingredients, plum extract and niacinamide, for sun protection with moisturising care.

R379.00Shop now →

Apply generously as the final skincare step before makeup.

Check the current ingredients if your skin reacts to fragrance, and patch test unfamiliar products.

Prices correct at time of publishing. Prices and availability may change.

A simple summer routine

Morning: Gentle cleanse or water rinse, optional hydrating step, light moisturiser, sunscreen.

Evening: Remove sunscreen and makeup, cleanse gently, use your usual treatment if needed, then moisturise.

If your skin feels tight, add back some moisture. If the routine feels sticky, reduce an optional layer first.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need moisturiser if my skin is oily in summer?

Oily skin still needs hydration. A light lotion may feel more comfortable than a rich cream. Shine alone is not a reason to stop moisturising.

Should I replace all my winter skincare?

No. Keep what works and change only the step that feels uncomfortable. Introduce one new product at a time.

Can I mix sunscreen into my moisturiser?

No. Apply sunscreen separately as the final skincare step before makeup, following the packaging directions.

Do deeper skin tones need sun protection too?

Yes. CANSA stresses that sun protection matters regardless of skin colour. Deeper skin tones have some natural protection from melanin, but they are still vulnerable to sun damage.