10 Best Essential Oils for Glowing Skin in Summer

Summer is the perfect season to show off your natural glow, but the heat, humidity, and sun exposure can challenge your skin.

If you’re looking for a natural, affordable way to keep your skin fresh, radiant, and healthy, essential oils are your secret weapon.

Below is a list of the 10 best essential oils for glowing skin in summer, perfect for summer skincare, along with detailed tips on how to use each one safely and effectively.

1. Tea Tree Oil – Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Tea tree oil is a powerhouse when it comes to fighting summer skin issues, especially acne. The heat and humidity of summer often lead to clogged pores, increased oil production, and breakouts. Tea tree oil’s strong antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties help clear up pimples, reduce redness, and calm irritated skin.

It also helps control sebum (oil) production, making it ideal for oily and combination skin types. The best part? It works quickly and doesn’t dry out the skin when used correctly.

How to Use Tea Tree oil for skin:

• Spot Treatment: Mix 1–2 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel and apply it directly to blemishes.
• Face Mist: Add 2 drops to 100ml of rose water for a refreshing anti-acne face mist.
• Face Pack Add-In: Add a drop to your summer face pack (like multani mitti or sandalwood).

Caution:

Never apply tea tree oil directly to your skin without dilution—it can be too harsh and cause irritation. Always do a patch test, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Why It’s Perfect for Summer:

Because it keeps your skin clear, reduces inflammation, and controls oil—tea tree oil is a go-to solution when your skin feels sticky, sweaty, and prone to breakouts.

2. Lavender Oil – The Skin Soother

Lavender oil is a summer must-have for its incredible calming and healing properties. It soothes irritated or sunburned skin, reduces redness, and promotes skin cell regeneration. Thanks to its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities, it helps reduce minor burns and sun damage while giving your skin a soft, even glow.

This essential oil is especially great for sensitive skin or anyone struggling with redness, irritation, or inflammation from too much sun exposure. Its light floral scent also makes it ideal for your summer nighttime routine—it helps you relax and even sleep better.

How to Use Lavender oil for skin:

• Soothing Mist: Mix 5 drops of lavender oil with 100ml rose water or witch hazel to create a calming face mist.
• After-Sun Gel: Combine 3 drops of lavender oil with 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel for a cooling after-sun treatment.
• Night Oil: Blend 2 drops with 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil and massage gently into your face before bed.

Caution:

While lavender oil is generally gentle, always do a patch test, especially if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Avoid contact with eyes.

Why Lavender oil Perfect for Summer:

Lavender oil soothes sun-stressed skin, reduces inflammation, and leaves a gentle glow. Plus, it adds a calming effect that helps balance your skin and your mood during hot, tiring days.

3. Lemon Oil – The Glow Booster

Lemon oil is your go-to for brightening dull, sun-damaged skin. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, it helps reduce pigmentation, dark spots, and tanning caused by harsh summer sun exposure. Lemon oil can also help exfoliate dead skin cells and tighten pores, giving your skin a refreshed, glowing appearance.

However, lemon oil increases your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. That means it should never be used during the day or before going outside. It’s best used at night and always mixed with a carrier oil to avoid irritation.

How to Use Lemon oil for skin:

• Night Serum: Mix 1–2 drops of lemon oil with 1 teaspoon of jojoba or almond oil and apply at night only.
• DIY Brightening Mask: Add 1 drop to a yogurt and honey face mask to reduce tan and brighten your skin.
• Spot Treatment: Dilute with aloe vera and apply only to dark spots or pigmented areas.

Caution:

Never use lemon oil undiluted or before sun exposure. It can cause photosensitivity and may lead to rashes or skin burns.

Why Lemon oil is Perfect for Summer:

Lemon oil is a natural glow enhancer. Used correctly at night, it helps fade sun spots and uneven skin tone, leaving you with a brighter, clearer complexion.

4. Frankincense Oil – The Age-Defying Wonder

Frankincense oil is an underrated gem for summer skincare. It has strong anti-aging and healing properties, helping to smooth fine lines, fade scars, and improve overall skin tone. Rich in antioxidants, it supports skin regeneration, which is vital after long sun exposure.

Frankincense also reduces redness and swelling and helps tighten the skin naturally. For anyone dealing with mature or sun-damaged skin, this oil is a must.

How to Use Frankincense oil for skin:

• Anti-Aging Night Oil: Add 2 drops of frankincense oil to 1 teaspoon of argan oil and use nightly.
• Healing Mask: Mix 1 drop with honey and sandalwood powder for a rejuvenating face mask.
• Toner Boost: Add 2 drops to your regular toner for a firming effect.

Caution:

Frankincense oil is generally safe but should be diluted. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before use.

Why Frankincense oil is Perfect for Summer:

It rejuvenates sun-stressed skin, reduces signs of aging, and promotes healing. It’s like a spa treatment in a bottle!

5. Rose Oil – The Hydration Hero

Rose oil is perfect for dry, sensitive, or inflamed skin. It deeply hydrates, soothes, and tones the skin, which is essential during hot and drying summer winds. It helps retain moisture and gives your skin a natural dewy look.

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, rose oil also reduces redness, calms inflammation, and evens out your complexion. Its natural floral aroma adds a luxurious feel to your skincare routine.

How to Use:

• Hydrating Serum: Add 2 drops of rose oil to 1 teaspoon of almond oil and apply as a serum.
• Glow Mask: Mix 1 drop with yogurt and besan (gram flour) for a cooling face mask.
• Toner Add-On: Add a few drops to your rose water spray for extra nourishment.

Caution:

Always dilute and do a patch test. Pure rose oil is potent and expensive—be sure you’re getting real rose essential oil.

Why Rose oil is Perfect for skin in Summer:

Rose oil keeps your skin moisturized, glowing, and calm—even when the heat tries to dry it out.

6. Peppermint Oil – The Cooling Champion

Peppermint oil is a refreshing treat for hot summer days. It has a natural cooling effect that soothes irritated or inflamed skin, making it excellent for post-sun care. It also has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that help cleanse the skin and control breakouts.

Its menthol content gives an instant cooling sensation, making it ideal for oily or overheated skin. If you’re dealing with summer rashes, itchiness, or heat boils, peppermint oil can be a lifesaver.

How to Use Peppermint essential oil for Skin:

• Cooling Face Mist: Add 3 drops to 100ml of cucumber water and spritz for a refreshing midday lift.
• After-Sun Treatment: Mix 2 drops with aloe vera gel and apply to sun-exposed areas.
• Body Spray: Blend with water and witch hazel for a homemade cooling body spray.

Caution:

Peppermint oil is strong—never apply directly without dilution. Avoid using it around the eyes or on broken skin.

Why Peppermint essential oil for skin is Perfect for Summer:

It cools the skin, calms itching and rashes, and provides instant relief from sunburn. Your summer skincare isn’t complete without this minty must-have!

7. Geranium Oil – The Balancer

Geranium oil is known for its balancing effect on the skin—it regulates sebum production, tightens pores, and promotes an even skin tone. It’s especially helpful during summer when your skin tends to get oily, sweaty, and congested.

Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help prevent breakouts while promoting smooth and radiant skin. Plus, it has a lovely floral aroma that instantly uplifts your mood.

How to Use Geranium oil for skin in summer:

• Balancing Serum: Add 2 drops to 1 teaspoon of rosehip oil and apply daily.
• Face Mask Add-In: Mix a drop into clay-based masks to help detox and balance.
• Facial Steam: Add 2 drops to hot water and let your skin absorb its balancing benefits.

Caution:

Always dilute before applying. Do a patch test to check for sensitivity.

Why Geranium oil is Perfect for skin in Summer:

Geranium oil helps balance oiliness, reduces breakouts, and keeps your skin looking fresh and toned throughout the day.

8. Ylang Ylang Oil – The Skin Softener

Ylang Ylang oil helps boost skin elasticity, reduce signs of aging, and improve the appearance of tired summer skin. It promotes cell regeneration, controls excess oil, and leaves your skin soft and glowing.

Its sweet, exotic scent also acts as a natural mood enhancer—perfect for lifting your spirits on hot, draining days.

How to Use Ylang Ylang oil for skin in summer:

• Moisturizer Booster: Mix 1–2 drops with your daily moisturizer.
• Massage Oil: Blend with coconut oil for a hydrating body massage.
• Glow Serum: Combine 2 drops with jojoba oil and use at night.

Caution:

Avoid overuse, as it can be overpowering. Stick to 1–2 drops and always dilute well.

Why Ylang Ylang oil Perfect for skin in Summer:

It revives dull, tired skin and adds a soft, summer glow while controlling oil production.

9. Chamomile Oil – The Sensitive Skin Savior

Chamomile oil is incredibly gentle and perfect for those with sensitive, allergy-prone, or reactive skin. It soothes redness, reduces inflammation, and heals minor irritations caused by sun exposure or sweat.

This oil is also calming for your senses, making it great for your nighttime skincare routine during stressful summer days.

How to Use Chamomile oil for skin:

• After-Sun Balm: Mix 2 drops with aloe vera gel and apply after sun exposure.
• Gentle Face Oil: Blend with calendula or sweet almond oil for a sensitive skin remedy.
• Relaxing Steam: Add 2–3 drops to warm water and breathe in the calm.

Caution:

Chamomile is usually safe, but do a patch test if you have ragweed allergies.

Why Chamomile oil is Perfect for skin in Summer:

It’s soothing, calming, and healing—everything your skin needs after a long, sunny day.

10. Carrot Seed Oil – The Sun Shield

Carrot seed oil is rich in beta-carotene, antioxidants, and vitamins that help protect your skin from sun damage. It doesn’t replace sunscreen but adds an extra layer of defense and nourishment.

It promotes cell regeneration, fades pigmentation, and improves skin tone. If your skin feels dull and tired from sun exposure, carrot seed oil brings back life and glow.

How to Use Chamomile oil for skin in summer:

• Day Oil (with Sunscreen): Mix 2 drops with a light carrier oil and apply under sunscreen.
• Glow Mask: Add 1 drop to multani mitti and rose water for a brightening face pack.
• Night Recovery Oil: Combine with rosehip oil and apply before bed.

Caution:

Always dilute. Do not use as a standalone sunscreen.

Why It’s Perfect for Summer:

Carrot seed oil helps restore skin health after sun exposure and supports natural sun protection.

Conclusion

Glowing skin in summer isn’t just about what you apply—it’s about choosing the right natural ingredients. These essential oils, when used properly, can deeply nourish, hydrate, and protect your skin through the hottest months. Always dilute essential oils and patch test before use.

Pair your routine with hydration, good sleep, and sun protection for radiant, healthy skin that glows from within.

Also Read- Best Foods for Glowing Skin