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Water is life—and in the thick of a Texas summer, I feel that truth more deeply than ever. When the heat hits in full force, I’m reminded that hydration isn’t only about drinking water (though yes, I’m never far from my tumbler). It’s about creating daily rituals that feel cooling, nourishing, and naturally radiant from the inside out.
From what I eat to how I care for my skin and hair, hydration touches every part of my routine these days. And thanks to my weekly Target run (our partner on this post), staying dewy and refreshed all summer long is something easily attainable and affordable. Ahead, I’m sharing my go-to hydration rituals and the staples I rely on for a glowy, feel-good season.
Hydrate From Within: My Summer Water Upgrade
Of course, drinking more water is a non-negotiable this time of year, but it’s not just about drinking more. Drinking smarter is the goal. While plain water is always a win, I love keeping a stash of electrolyte packets on hand to help replenish minerals lost through sweat and support my energy levels.
Also, don’t underestimate the OG practice of infused spa water. It’s so much more fun to drink, and not to mention beautiful. Some of my favorite pairings:
- Lemon + Cucumber + Mint: Lemon helps flush toxins, cucumber is ultra-hydrating and anti-inflammatory, and mint soothes the stomach. This trio is ideal after a sweaty workout or a long day in the sun.
- Raspberry + Mint: Raspberries are loaded with antioxidants that support healthy skin and fight free radicals, while mint adds a refreshing zing and can help with digestion.
- Orange + Basil: Oranges add a dose of vitamin C and natural sweetness, while basil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help ease stress. This one feels a little fancy and is perfect for serving in a pitcher at brunch.
I stock up on all the fresh berries, veggies, and herbs from Good & Gather at Target and let my mood guide my elixir each day.
Cooling Spa Salad = Instant Refresh
Another way of hydrating smarter? Eat your water (yes, you heard me.) What I mean: Many fruits and vegetables are naturally water-rich, so incorporating them into meals can be an easy way to boost hydration—especially when the weather is scorching and you’re craving something light and fresh.
One of my favorites for summer is this grapefruit and avocado salad. It’s the perfect mix of juicy, creamy, and crunchy. Ingredients like grapefruit, cucumber, and romaine are packed with water and electrolytes, while avocado adds healthy fats to help lock in moisture from the inside out. Add the golden-turmeric dressing, a pinch of flaky salt, and some chopped mint or basil, and it’s basically a spa treatment in salad form, with the added satisfaction of crunchy chickpeas. Even better, everything you need for this recipe is readily available from Good & Gather.
Skin Quencher: My 3-Step Hydration Routine
In the summer, everything simplifies, including my skincare. Between sun exposure, heat, sweat, and extra time outdoors, my skin can feel more reactive and easily congested. That’s why I swap out heavier creams for light, breathable layers that quench my skin without clogging pores. I layer on from lightest to thickest so each one can absorb properly and do its job—leaving my skin refreshed, not overwhelmed.
Here’s my foolproof 3-step routine:
- Start with a hydrating mist. I love spritzing a rosewater or thermal spring mist straight out of the fridge. Not only does it feel amazing, but it gives your skin a quick drink of hydration and preps it to better absorb whatever comes next.
- Follow with a hyaluronic acid serum. This is the MVP of my summer skincare. Hyaluronic acid helps bind water to the skin, plumping, and smoothing without feeling sticky or heavy. I’ve been loving this hyaluronic serum from Korean skincare brand Torriden that visibly plumps the skin and keeps it feeling nourished all day.
- Apply a gel-based moisturizer or hydrating SPF. Finish with a lightweight gel moisturizer to really lock in that hydration, along with an SPF to help prevent any further UV damage. Look for formulas with aloe, squalane, or ceramides for that supple-skin finish.
- Bonus: Treat your lips to major moisture. Nothing feels quite as pampering as a lip mask, and I’m obsessed with this one from Versed. It’s buttery but not sticky, and I smooth it on before bed and wake up with baby soft lips.
Hair Recovery After Pool Days
As much as I love a pool day, my hair often needs some TLC afterwards. Over time, the chlorine can strip its moisture and natural oils, leaving my strands feeling dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage. Just like being diligent with my water intake and skincare, I’ve also built a simple hair recovery routine that brings my summer locks back to life—keeping them soft, shiny, and fulI of bounce.
My post-swim ritual includes:
- Clarifying shampoo: I start with a gentle clarifying wash to remove chlorine, sunscreen residue, and product buildup without over-stripping. This resets my scalp and leaves everything feeling super clean.
- Hydrating mask: Next, I apply a rich, hydrating hair mask—usually with ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or aloe—to restore moisture and smooth frizz. I’ll leave it in for 5–10 minutes while I finish my shower.
- Wide-tooth comb: I use a wide-tooth comb in the shower to detangle gently (starting from the ends up). This keeps breakage to a minimum and helps evenly distribute the mask.
I also love sleeping with a silk scrunchie and satin pillowcase. These reduce friction, help retain moisture, and prevent those dreaded overnight tangles.
For more of my entertaining, food, decor, and fashion faves, explore and shop my Target storefront.
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