Summer Skin, Sorted: A Parent’s Guide to Keeping Sensitive Skin Cool

Summer Skin, Sorted: A Parent’s Guide to Keeping Sensitive Skin Cool

When the temperature climbs, little skin feels it first. Heat, sweat, sunscreen, saltwater - it’s a lot for delicate skin to handle.

For children with sensitive or eczema-prone skin, summer can trigger flare-ups fast. Sweat can trap irritants against the skin, humidity can upset the balance of their skin barrier, and all that fun in the sun can leave skin dry and itchy by bedtime.

But summer doesn’t have to mean red cheeks and restless nights. With the right care (and a few tweaks to your daily routine), you can help their skin stay calm, cool, and happy - no matter how high the temperature climbs.

Why Sensitive Skin Struggles in Summer

Children’s skin is thinner and more reactive than adult skin. It loses moisture faster and doesn’t regulate temperature as efficiently. Add in heat, salt, chlorine, and sweat and that delicate barrier can quickly become overwhelmed.

The key? Support their skin’s microbiome and barrier function - the two layers of natural defence that keep moisture in and irritants out.

That’s where gentle cleansing, hydration, and consistency make all the difference.

Your Summer Skin Cooling Guide

  1. Dress Light & Loose. Keep things simple. Breathable cotton or bamboo lets skin breathe and reduces friction. Avoid scratchy fabrics, synthetic fibres, or tight elastics that trap heat. Loose layers also make it easier for moisture to evaporate - nature’s built-in cooling system.
  2. Cool the Air (and the Mood). If possible, keep rooms between 16–18°C - a sweet spot that helps skin stay calm and itch-free. Fans and air conditioning are great allies, but even a cool, damp cloth or a light mist can work wonders when you’re on the go.
  3. Post-Play Care. After playtime or swimming, rinse off sweat, salt, and sunscreen with cool (not cold) water. Use a soap-free wash like Soft Suds - formulated with Oat and Kawakawa - to cleanse without stripping moisture.Then pat dry gently (no rubbing!) and apply Lotion Potion on damp skin to lock in hydration before it evaporates.
  4. Spot Soothing. For any hot spots, bites, or rashes that appear out of nowhere (because they always do), keep Calm Balm handy. It’s rich in Prebiotics, Kawakawa, and Zinc, which help calm irritation and support healing naturally.
  5. Stay Consistent. Hydration is the best prevention. Even on “good skin” days, keep up your moisturising routine morning and night. Consistency helps strengthen the skin barrier so flare-ups become fewer, shorter, and less intense.

Bonus Tip: Rethink Bath Time

Hot baths might be cosy in winter, but in summer they can dry and irritate skin. Stick to short, lukewarm baths or showers, and always follow up with moisture while skin is still damp.

Let Them Play. We’ll Handle the Skin.

Summer memories shouldn’t come with sore skin or scratchy nights. With gentle, prebiotic-powered care, you can protect their skin barrier, calm the flare-ups before they start, and keep the fun rolling all season long.

That’s the kind of summer we’re here for.