Long summer days are made for backyard barbecues, vacations, afternoons at the pool, and soaking up sunshine. But when temperatures climb into the 90s (or higher), staying cool becomes about more than comfort. It’s about necessity, health and staying safe.
While air conditioning certainly helps, nature also offers plenty of ways to help your body stay refreshed. From hydrating foods to soothing botanical ingredients, a few thoughtful habits can make even the hottest days more enjoyable.
Here are 5 natural ways to stay cool this summer while treating your body and your skin with the gentle care each deserves.
1. Eat Foods That Naturally Hydrate
One of the easiest ways to cool down starts on your plate. Many fruits and vegetables contain more than 90% water, helping replenish fluids while providing important vitamins and antioxidants.
Reach for foods like:
- Watermelon
- Cucumber
- Strawberries
- Cantaloupe
- Celery
- Tomatoes
- Leafy greens
- Citrus fruits
These fresh foods not only help support hydration, but also feel lighter than heavy meals, making them perfect for hot afternoons.
Pro Tip: Pair fresh fruit with herbal iced tea or infused water for an extra refreshing treat.
2. Choose Cooling Botanical Ingredients for Your Skin
Hot weather can leave skin feeling sticky, irritated, or uncomfortable. Gentle plant-based ingredients can help provide a refreshing experience without relying on harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances (which can also attract unwanted animal and insect visitors).
Look for body care products made with ingredients like:
- Aloe vera (for lightweight hydration)
- Peppermint (for a naturally cooling sensation)
- Cucumber extract (to refresh tired skin)
- Chamomile (to comfort dry or sun-exposed skin)
- Calendula (to nourish sensitive skin)
The quality of these ingredients matters. High-quality botanical extracts and thoughtfully selected plant oils help create products that are gentle enough for everyday use while leaving skin feeling clean, soft, and refreshed.
3. Cool Your Body from the Inside Out
Planning ahead can make hot days much more comfortable. Consider keeping these items on hand:
- A reusable insulated water bottle
- Frozen grapes, berries or homemade fruit popsicles (in a cooler, of course!)
- Electrolyte-rich coconut water (avoid kinds with added sugars)
- Herbal iced teas like peppermint or hibiscus
Staying hydrated consistently throughout the day is more effective than trying to "catch up" after you've already become thirsty.
4. Dress Your Skin in Breathable Fabrics
Natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, and linen allow air to circulate more freely than many synthetic materials. The same philosophy applies to what you put on your skin.
Heavy products made with unnecessary fillers or harsh ingredients can sometimes leave skin feeling weighed down during summer. Lightweight formulas made with nourishing plant oils and carefully selected ingredients can help skin feel fresh and comfortable instead.
When choosing body care products, ingredient quality is just as important as ingredient quantity. Simpler formulas featuring recognizable botanical ingredients often provide exactly what your skin needs—without the extras it doesn't.
5. Think Ahead Before You Head Outside
Summer comfort starts before you leave the house. A few simple habits include:
- Applying moisturizer after your morning shower (while skin is still slightly damp).
- Keeping a travel-sized lotion or body mist in your purse or beach bag.
- Bringing a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight cover-up.
- Packing extra water for longer outings.
- Planning outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the evening whenever possible.
Just as eating wholesome foods supports your overall wellness, using high-quality ingredients on your skin is one more way to care for your body every day.
You CAN Stay Cool (Naturally) This Summer!
The best summer routines don't have to be complicated. Hydrating, whole foods, thoughtful planning, lightweight clothing, and gentle body care all work together to help you feel refreshed - even when temperatures soar!
At Real Purity, we believe caring for your skin starts with caring about what goes into every product. That's why we focus on high-quality ingredients chosen for their simplicity, gentleness, and effectiveness, allowing you to enjoy healthy-looking skin EVERY season.
Here's to staying cool, staying hydrated, and embracing summer – naturally!