Summer is my favourite season in the saddle—longer hacks, light evenings, and yes, those cute matchy sets we all love. But if there's one thing I've learned from life on the yard, it's that summer can be tough on the skin—for both us and our horses.

From itchy fly bites and sweaty scurfy patches to those dreaded post-yard breakouts, the season brings unique skincare challenges. That’s why I'm sharing my go-to routine for keeping skin calm, clean, and comfortable—all anchored around Four Hills Equestrian products you’ll actually find in stock.

Whether you're prepping for a show or want a fresher feel after every ride, here’s everything you need for a summer glow-up—for both horse and human.

🌞 Why Summer Demands Skincare

Imagine a perfect morning ride—until the heat builds, sweat sticks, and flies swarm. For horses, this means scurf, rubs, and sore spots; for us, it’s clogged pores and heat rash. It’s not just annoying—it’s a genuine comfort and health issue.

That’s why a consistent summer skincare routine is essential—it protects, promotes shine, and saves you time (and fuss) later.

🐎 Horse TLC: Targeted Protection & Repair

Nothing beats the power of NAF Love The Skin He’s In Skin Spray—herbal-infused with MSM, aloe, carrot, and licorice, it soothes scabs and hot spots fast. A quick mist helps calm irritation and gives visible relief.

To fend off flies effectively, the Equilibrium Net Relief Riding Mask offers UV protection and keeps insects away during hacks and turnout. Approved by British Showjumping and British Dressage, it's a summer essential that works and looks good.

For daily protection, layer on NAF’s D‑Itch Lotion for barrier support, and follow with Gold Label Sunguard to shield sensitive muzzle and pink skin from sun and irritation.

🧼 Grooming Essentials: Tools to Boost Skin Health

Cooling and cleaning are critical post-ride—and here’s what I reach for:

• Effol Orca Sweat Scraper – Ergonomically designed to effortlessly clear water and sweat, ensuring quicker cooling and less rub. I personally love how the curve fits the body perfectly.

• Imperial Riding Grooming Glove – Dual-sided for gentle cleaning and massage under sweat-soaked saddles. Only £4.50 and perfect for sensitive areas.

Tip: Grab a microfiber towel and grooming mitt from the summer collection—great for detail cleaning, especially under tack.

💆 Rider Reset: Simple Skin TLC

Don’t leave your skin behind—summer yard days do a number on us, too. Here’s my quick refresh kit:

• Hydrating & cooling spray (aloe, cucumber, rosewater) soothes flushed areas and refreshes.

• Lightweight moisturiser seals in hydration and protects from elements—no sticky residue.

• Extend the towel from grooming to dab yourself dry, keeping your kit minimal and efficient.

💡 Clever Towel Hacks

One towel, double duty! While scraping your horse, use the same towel to dab your arms and neck—less kit, less mess. Wrap a towel around your horse’s neck between washes to cool them down easily—a little yard magic that’s hugely effective.

💛 Final Thoughts from Tilly

Our horses rely on us for comfort, and we deserve to feel amazing too. From NAF Skin Spray to the fly mask, sweat scraper, and grooming mitt, this toolkit will transform your summer routine—leaving both horse and rider fresh, itch-free, and ready for anything.

👉 Ready to stock up?
Visit our Summer Essentials Collection

Thanks for diving in—I can’t wait to hear how these tips upgrade your seasonal rides! Here’s to glowing skin, happy horses, and breezy summer days.

Love,
Tilly x