Summer is here, and with it comes longer days, beach adventures and plenty of sunshine. When it comes to my summer staples, I like to keep things low-tox and additive-free. Whether it’s sunscreen, bug spray, skincare or snacks, I’m all about finding products that nourish and protect without unnecessary nasties. Here are my go-to essentials for a happy, healthy summer season.
BEACH ESSENTIALS - SUNSCREEN
Protecting your skin from the sun’s harsh rays is a must, and I’m currently trialling two fantastic sunscreens this summer. Choosing a low-tox sunscreen is essential for avoiding potentially harmful chemical ingredients affecting your skin health and the environment, particularly marine ecosystems.
MOTHER SPF SUNSCREEN
I’m absolutely obsessed with their range! I’ve tried all their products, but right now, my go-to picks are:
Mineral Matte Mousse Sunscreen – ideal for the face; it’s lightweight, non-oily, and truly matte. Plus, it’s slightly tinted, so you won’t have to worry about a white cast! If you’d like an option with even more tint, I also love their Tinted Touch Up SPF 50 Face Sunscreen (this one has a brush applicator, too).
Face & Body Sunscreen (for my body) – it has a slightly oilier texture (but in a good way). It’s not heavy, and the extra slip makes it effortless to apply evenly.
They’re both super easy to rub in – no streaky residue!
P.S. They’re all SPF50 as well; I just haven’t gotten through the old SPF30 original version as it’s lasted me quite a while!
You can use the discount code “JORDIE15” for 15% OFF (valid until the 28th of Feb 2025). And as a bonus, if you spend over $100 you’ll get a free Mother of Pearl serum ($68 value) with your order.
MAD MARGOT SUNSCREEN
This is a true multitasker: a 4-in-1 product that works as a serum, moisturiser, primer, and sunscreen – all in one! It combines clean SPF with skincare, making it a convenient choice for those who love simplicity in their routine.
It’s not tinted (just in case that’s your thing!)
While it’s not heavy, it’s slightly richer than I expected – however it’s still very wearable and comfortable on the skin.
So far, I’ve only worn it to the beach a few times, so I can’t speak to how it performs under makeup (I haven’t worn makeup in a while), but as a beach sunscreen, it’s been fantastic so far!
You can use the discount code “JORDANPIE15” for 15% OFF.
For more sunscreen recommendations, check out our updated Instagram post on Sunscreen Swaps. In it, I share a full list of low-tox options – including our "Avoid," "Better," and "Best" brand picks!
BUG SPRAY FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
If you’re heading out in the late afternoons, you’ll know how buggy it can get. I’m very prone to mosquito and sandfly bites, so I rely on a bug spray. This summer, I’ve been using Aurapel Bug Spray. It’s organic and low-tox, making it a great choice for sensitive skin and the environment compared to conventional bug sprays loaded with harsh chemicals. I’ve found it to be super effective at keeping mosquitoes and sandflies away – thank goodness, a real summer saviour!
Aurapel currently have this bundle on special which has a few different sizes. Perfect to have one in your beach bag, one in the car for those spontaneous beach or outdoor adventures and one for camping, so you’ll always be prepared!
You can find even more recommendations for low-tox bug-repellent brands right here!
SKINCARE FOR SUN-KISSED SKIN
Between swimming in the ocean, soaking up the sun and the dry weather in New Zealand, my skin often ends up feeling very dry and a little sun-kissed. Using natural and organic skincare is essential for repairing and protecting sun-exposed skin, as these products nourish deeply without introducing unnecessary chemicals. Here’s what I’ve been loving lately:
Byron Pure Tallow (Body and Face Balm): Made from organic, grass-fed tallow with rosehip and essential oils, this balm is deeply nourishing and smells divine. You can use the code “JORDIE15” for 15% off with Byron Pure Tallow
Mukti Marigold Hydrating Crème: Super hydrating and perfect for my dry summer skin.
Mukti Queen of the Night Crème: Another favourite – it’s rich and nourishing. My skin just soaks both of these moisturisers right up.
Mukti Rose Blossom Hydrating Mist: I keep this in the fridge for a refreshing spritz on hot days. Such a lush, cooling treat for my face and neck!
- You can use the code “JORDIEPIEFACE” for 20% OFF your first order with Mukti Organics
STAYING HYDRATED - WATER BOTTLES & WATER FILTER
Don’t forget to drink your water! I’ve been using my trusty 1.6L Cheeki stainless steel water bottle for years. Stainless steel is a fantastic low-tox choice as it’s free from BPA and other harmful chemicals that can leach into your water from plastic bottles. It’s durable, keeps your water cool and is an eco-friendly option (it’ll last!).
For filtered water, I love the Waters Co Jug, which is perfect for camping trips. At home, I use a benchtop water filter daily to remove chlorine and other nasties that can negatively impact gut health and overall wellbeing. Filtering your water ensures you’re drinking clean, safe water that’s free from contaminants (like chlorine) to reduce your toxin exposure and support digestion.
If you would love to try these water filters out, you can use my discount code ‘JORDIEPIE7’ for a cheeky discount on any of their water filters.
HOMEMADE ELECTROLYTE DRINK
Staying hydrated is even more fun with my homemade electrolyte drink. Here’s my simple version:
Base: Coconut water or coconut water kefir (fermented coconut water) for added probiotics.
Minerals: I use Changing Habits’ natural, preservative-free minerals.
Flavour: Frozen lime or lemon juice cubes, ginger, frozen passionfruit cubes, or any fresh/frozen fruit or fruit juice you like.
Optional Add-In: A small spoon of Eden Healthfoods additive-free electrolyte powder (two flavours available).
It’s refreshing, hydrating, and easy to make. All ingredients are available through Jivita—use code “jordiepieface” for $15 off your first order over $130.
ADDITIVE-FREE SUMMER SNACKS
Summer is all about spontaneous adventures, and having delicious, healthy snacks on hand makes jumping in the car and heading off easy! Choosing additive-free snacks is not just about better taste – fewer preservatives help reduce inflammation, which goes a long way when it comes to health and wellbeing. Here are my current favourites:
Dona Cholita Corn Chips: Additive-free, vegetable oil-free and organic. These pair beautifully with a quick homemade guacamole or a dip made with tuna, mayo, avocado and fresh herbs.
Boulder Olive Oil Chips or Avocado Oil Chips: Great for an additive-free, vegetable oil-free potato chip option.
Activated Almonds: A pantry staple for emergency snacking. Easier to digest, super crunchy and long-lasting.
Loco Love Chocolates: These are such a luxurious treat! Additive-free, vegan, organic and made with real food ingredients.
Barbell Foods Burn Air Dried Steak: A protein-packed snack that’s perfect for adventures.
I get all these goodies through Jivita, you can use the discount code “jordiepieface” for $15 OFF your first order over $130.
For more snack inspiration, check out my Instagram post on Summer Snacks. Think fresh fruit, veggie sticks and more!
EXTRA NOURISHMENT
All the summer fun can be exhausting! To keep my energy levels up and support my body to do its thing, I’ve been taking Cell Squared’s Organic Beef Liver Capsules. They’re packed with nutrients and give me that much-needed pick-me-up. My partner swears by their Men’s Innate Capsules for all their benefits, too.
Use exclusive code “JORDIE10” when shopping online with Cell Squared for 10% off everything
Whether you’re hitting the beach, going on hikes or enjoying lazy afternoons at home, these low-tox, additive-free staples will help you stay healthy, nourished, and energised all summer long. What are your summer essentials? Let me know in the comments!