Summer baby skincare: why moisturising matters in hot weather - Colief

Written by Colief | Jul 14, 2026 1:42:20 AM

Summer usually means more time outside, more face-wiping, more baths or swims, and more exposure to heat, sun and wind. All of that can leave your baby’s skin needing a little extra care.

Baby skin is thinner and more delicate than adult skin, and it can lose moisture more easily. That is one reason dry patches and irritation can show up more quickly, especially when the weather is warm and routines change.

Why moisturising matters in summer

Moisturising helps support the skin barrier and lock in hydration. In warmer weather, that can be especially helpful after a bath, after swimming, or anytime skin starts to look dry or feel a little rough. A simple rule is to keep skincare gentle. Lukewarm baths, soft patting dry, and applying moisturiser soon after washing can all help reduce dryness. Guidance also recommends moisturising straight after bathing, while the skin is still fresh from the bath.

Do not forget the face

Your baby’s face often needs the most attention in summer.

Cheeks, chin and nose are exposed to the elements, and they are also the areas most likely to be wiped throughout the day. Add dribbling, snacks, warm weather and outdoor time, and it is easy to see why little faces can end up looking dry or irritated.

That is why a balm can be useful as part of your summer routine. Colief Baby Face Balm fits perfectly here, helping moisturise exposed areas such as the cheeks, chin and nose. The stick format is handy for quick, mess-free top-ups when you are out and about.

A simple summer moisturising routine

You do not need a long routine to care for baby skin well in hot weather. A few gentle steps are usually enough:

  • cleanse gently with a soft damp cloth
  • pat skin dry rather than rubbing
  • moisturise after bathing or swimming
  • reapply to dry facial areas if needed during the day
  • keep a simple balm in your nappy bag for on-the-go top-ups

The aim is not to layer on lots of products, but to help keep skin comfortable, soft and supported.

What about SPF?

Sun protection matters just as much as moisturising.

According to NHS, sunscreen is not recommended for babies under 6 months. Instead, the focus should be on keeping them out of direct strong sunlight, using shade, lightweight clothing and a hat. Another advice is taking extra care when the sun is strongest, especially between 11am and 3pm.

For babies 6 months and over, the NHS advises using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and protection against both UVA and UVB rays, and reapplying it regularly, including every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.

If your baby has sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens can be a good option to look at. Formulas containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to irritate sensitive baby skin.

Moisturising and SPF can work together

Moisturising and sun protection do different jobs, and both matter in summer.

Moisturiser helps support hydration and comfort. SPF helps protect exposed skin from the sun. Together, they can help you care for your baby’s skin more confidently through warmer days, outdoor walks and summer travel.

Keep summer skincare simple

Summer skincare does not need to be complicated. A gentle moisturising routine, a little extra care for the face, and age-appropriate sun protection can go a long way.

Some days that might mean a balm after a bath. On other days it might mean a quick top-up on dry cheeks before heading out. Small, simple steps are often the ones that help most.

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