„Glow is the essence of beauty.“- Estée Lauder, Summer Glow
product placement
I don’t know about you, but as soon as the sun says hello a little more often and the temperatures finally rise to a level where you can leave the house without a jacket in the morning, all I really want is one thing: to glow. Not just on my face, not just from the inside—but from head to toe. And yes, I mean that literally.
For me, the summer glow is that golden something you can’t quite put your finger on, but you see immediately. Skin that looks healthy. Fresh. Lightly tanned. Like a vacation—even if you’re really just sitting by the Danube Canal with an iced coffee and five too many mosquito bites.
And because I’m in full glow mode again this season, today I’m sharing my favorite tricks, products, and little rituals to make your skin glow. Not just on your face—but all over your body. Let’s glow, baby.
1. Preparation is everything
peel, babe
Before you try bronzer, fake tan, or glitter oil: exfoliate first.
Dry skin cells not only block your glow, they also make your skin look dull and uneven. And we really don’t want that when shorts are getting shorter and tops are getting airier.
I swear by body scrubs with fine grains or an enzyme body scrub (M. Asam has a really good one right now—I love it!). It’s best to massage it in once or twice a week in the shower using circular motions, preferably with a sisal mitt or an exfoliating brush. Afterwards, your skin feels like new—and is so ready for whatever comes next.
2. Fake it till you glow it
hello self-tanner
I’ll be honest: I’m Team Fake Tan. (to be honest I started this year fort he first time!) Because it’s faster, healthier than sunbathing, and—if you have the right products—looks super natural.
My favorites:
Important: Always apply plenty of sunscreen or bodylotion (especially on dry areas like elbows, knees, and feet), use a tanning mitt, and never try to apply it in the dark. I speak from experience. Turn on the lights! No matter how tired you are – you will thank me later!
And if you’re really in a hurry? There’s also body makeup with a tanning effect that works instantly – for example, from Vita Liberata or Charlotte Tilbury. Ideal for events, weddings, or simply when you want to feel especially good.
3. Not all oil is created equal
– it can glitter
What once sounded a bit like an Ibiza party in the 2000s is now a real must: body oils with shimmer.
And no, they won’t make you look like a glittery vampire from Twilight, but simply like the best version of your summer self.
My current favorites:
* Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Or – the classic, smells like a summer holiday in the South of France
See the product -> Link
* Tom Ford Soleil Blanc Shimmering Body Oil – incredibly expensive, but worth it
See the product -> Link
* Sol de Janeiro GlowMotions – smells of coconut and vacation, gives a real glow
See the product -> Link
You can apply these oils either neat or mix them with your body lotion for a more subtle effect. And here’s the trick: apply a little more to your shoulders, collarbones, and shins—that’s where the light reflects most beautifully.
4. Water, darling. From within.
So banal, but so true: No glow without enough water. Period.
I know, we’ve all heard it a thousand times – but our skin immediately notices when we’re not drinking enough. And in summer, the body needs more fluids.
My personal trick: I mix myself a huge jug of water with lemon, cucumber, and mint in the morning – it tastes like a spa, looks beautiful, and reminds me to drink a glass regularly. Sometimes I add a splash of coconut water – for that tropical feeling.
5. Body care that really works
Summer skin wants more than just a run-of-the-mill body lotion. It wants glow, care, fragrance—and maybe even a little luxury.
For example, I love:
For best results, apply the lotion immediately after showering—this allows your skin to better lock in moisture. For extra pep, add a few drops of Glow Oil afterward.
6. Don’t forget the SPF
– seriously!
Glow yes – sunburn no thanks.
A light glow with SPF is ideal for hot summer days, for example, with Hello Sunday The One That’s a Body Glow SPF 50 or Nivea’s glowy sun protection sprays. This way, you protect your skin AND it looks like it’s just stepped out of a beach campaign.
Tip: Feel free to add a little oil here as well – many SPF products are matte or leave a slight white residue. A little shimmer oil on top, and everything’s back to glow.
my summary
Let it glow.
Summer is short, and that’s exactly why I want to make the most of it – with radiant skin, a little shimmer on my shoulders, and the feeling that the day can only get better.
Because glow isn’t just about skin – it’s a statement. A small homage to the season when everything seems lighter, warmer, and more beautiful. I love that feeling when the sun hits my skin and I simply feel alive. When my body is well-groomed, smells lightly of vanilla or coconut, and every movement sparkles in the light – that’s summer for me.
So: Treat your skin. Wear your favorite dress. Let your leg sparkle in the sunlight like a golden statue.
Because you’re allowed to shine. And how.
Happy glowing,
Vanessa ✨
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