Which serum to use (or avoid) in summer? The expert guide to the best active ingredients to use in the sun

Summer rhymes with sun, heat, swimming… but also with skin stress. Faced with UV rays, dehydration, and external aggressors, it's essential to adapt your skincare routine. And it all starts with choosing the right serum . Some active ingredients are invaluable allies, while others can be problematic when exposed to light. Here's the expert guide to serums to use, or avoid, in summer , for radiant, healthy, and protected skin.

Why is it necessary to adapt your serum in summer?

Serum, a concentrated blend of powerful active ingredients, addresses specific needs: hydration, radiance, blemish control, or anti-aging. However, not all ingredients are designed to withstand light or heat. In summer, skin is more vulnerable, and some formulas can further sensitize it.

In summer, we favor:

• Lightweight, water-based, and non-comedogenic textures

• Moisturizing, soothing and antioxidant active ingredients

• Formulas that are well tolerated, even during prolonged sun exposure

The right serum for summer: why choose a formula adapted to the heat

In summer, it's crucial to prioritize serums that support the skin barrier , boost hydration , combat oxidation , and allow the skin to regenerate without irritation. MONO Skincare 's Intense Hydration Night Serum meets these criteria with a formula designed to soothe, smooth, and revitalize the skin overnight—the ideal time to deliver targeted active ingredients.

1. Inulin : the prebiotic that soothes and balances

Derived from plant roots, inulin is a key ingredient for strengthening the skin's microbiome , which is severely impacted in the summer by sweat, swimming, and UV rays. It helps maintain healthy, resilient skin that is less prone to inflammation or blemishes.

2. Sodium Hyaluronate : intense hydration without a greasy feel

This stable, lightweight form of hyaluronic acid easily penetrates the skin's surface layers to plump, smooth fine lines , and maintain optimal hydration, even in dry or very sunny environments. Perfect for dehydrated skin after a day in the sun.

3. Sodium Retinoyl Hyaluronate : the next generation of retinol

This innovative retinol derivative is vegan, stabilized, and combined with hyaluronic acid . Used exclusively at night, it stimulates collagen production , improves skin texture , and helps reduce dark spots . Unlike traditional retinol, it is less irritating while retaining its powerful anti-aging effects. This makes it a gentle yet effective alternative , ideal for summer when applied in the evening, followed by sunscreen in the morning .

4. Citrus Aurantium Amara (Neroli) : a boost of radiance and sensory appeal

This precious floral oil is renowned for its regenerating, toning, and mildly astringent properties. It helps to revive the complexion's radiance , while offering a refreshing and natural sensory experience.

Serums to avoid or use with caution in summer

MONO Skincare's Intense Hydration Night Serum avoids aggressive or unstabilized forms of photosensitizing active ingredients.

However, in summer, it is good to remember a few precautionary principles:

• Avoid using retinoids or AHA/BHA in the morning , as they increase skin photosensitivity.

• Prefer nighttime applications .

• Always protect your skin upon waking with a broad-spectrum sunscreen , to safely complement the effects of your nighttime skincare routine.

An expert serum designed for summer needs

With its 100% natural , vegan , cruelty-free formula enriched with hydrating , anti-aging , and soothing active ingredients, MONO Skincare's Intense Hydration Night Serum is the perfect ally for maintaining healthy, radiant, and protected skin throughout the summer. It perfectly illustrates how targeted and well-formulated skincare can meet seasonal needs without compromising on effectiveness or naturalness.

Choosing the right serum in summer means maximizing the benefits of your routine while protecting your skin from the sun's harmful effects. Opt for lightweight, hydrating, antioxidant, and non-photosensitizing formulas. And never forget that the best summer routine always starts with daily sun protection.

Discover MONO Skincare serums : refillable, clean, high-performance, designed for all seasons.