Summer isn’t all sunshine and lemonade. With higher temps and longer days, your body reacts differently than it does in other seasons. You sweat more, you burn more easily, and your allergies can go into overdrive. That means your health essentials need a seasonal upgrade, too. If your medicine cabinet isn't summer-ready, you're playing defence instead of offence. A few well-chosen over-the-counter essentials in your medicine cabinet can help you handle the season’s surprises calmly and confidently.

Here’s what we recommend keeping close by:

From small cuts and blisters to unexpected tumbles, summer adventures can sometimes get a little rough. A well-stocked first aid kit with plasters, bandages, and basic supplies means you’re ready to patch things up quickly and carry on.

Even with the best sun precautions, there’s always the chance you’ll end up a little pink (or lobster red) after a day outdoors. Having something in your cabinet to cool and calm overheated or sunburned skin can make a big difference. It gives comfort and helps in recovery, especially in the first few hours after exposure.

Warmer weather often brings more exposure to plants, insects, and outdoor allergens, any of which can leave your skin feeling itchy or irritated. A soothing topical treatment can help reduce that urge to scratch and ease redness. It also prevents the irritation from getting worse over time.

Summer’s great for getting out and about, but all that activity can leave you feeling a bit sore, whether it’s from sun exposure, exercise, or just a long day on your feet. Having a trusted pain reliever in your cabinet means you can ease those everyday aches before they slow you down.

From pollen to pet dander to whatever’s hiding in that overgrown patch of wildflowers, summer allergies can hit hard. Keeping something on hand to ease symptoms like itching, swelling, or sneezing can save you from discomfort when reactions pop up unexpectedly.

Whether it’s a mosquito bite or a scrape from a summer stroll, the warmer months often come with minor skin irritations. An antiseptic cream is a good go-to to clean the area, reduce discomfort, and help it heal properly.

If you’re heading into the woods, out to the lake, or just spending the evening in the backyard, bugs are part of the deal. Having something to apply before heading outside can help you avoid itchy bites. It also protects you from possible insect-borne illnesses, especially in grassy or wooded areas.

Even when it’s cloudy, the sun can still do damage, especially if you’re outside for long stretches. Applying sunscreen daily and remembering to reapply during the day helps protect your skin and keeps sunburns at bay. It also helps prevent skin irritation and long-term sun damage.

If you find yourself dealing with a patch of poison ivy, an annoying bite, or a heat rash flare-up. Having a cooling gel or spray on hand can make things a lot more bearable. These types of treatments can offer almost instant relief and help stop a small irritation from becoming a big problem.

Stocking your medicine cabinet for summer isn’t about expecting the worst, it’s about making sure the little things don’t ruin your fun. A few key essentials can help you handle minor issues at home, so you don’t have to scramble for solutions when you’d rather be enjoying the sunshine. Visit Eastwood Health and chat with our team, we’re here to help you pick the right summer essentials and help you prepare for a safe, healthy, and relaxed summer.