Every year, I switch out my closet seasonally. When summer comes around, the sweaters and boots get put away and I take out the sundresses and sandals. It’s the same with my makeup drawer, too! It’s all about a lighter touch and faking a sun-kissed glow, without anything too heavy or full-coverage that I can sweat out. So, I present my five summer beauty must-haves.
Creme Blush
Creme blush is better for our skin, because it can create a fresher, more radiant complexion. Moisture is always a good thing, after all. Let’s start with the product that kicked off my beauty obsession: the Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks blush stick. I know it’s pricey, but it’s really worth it. Merit’s Flush Balm gives you a similar wash of color for a little less, and there’s always the Chanel Sheer Colour Stick when in doubt.
CC Cream
When you feel like you need a little something on your face, but can’t face the a heavy layer of foundation, CC Cream is your product. It’ll even out your tone, conceal, color correct, and even sometimes include SPF! Supergoop’s CC Screen is a newer product, but it works just as well as their cult-favorite sunscreen. bareMinerals and it! Cosmetics are two superstars as well.
Lip Gloss
I almost never wear a heavy lip in summer. Instead, I just slick on some lip gloss with a little bit of shimmer, usually in a pink or coral-y tone. It’s one step up from a nude lip, and feels fresh but never too serious. Westman Atelier’s Squeaky Clean lip gloss is a green beauty must-have, and the hydrating formula protects your lips. Charlotte Tillbury’s Collagen Lip Bath is a plumping formula for a bigger pout.
Waterproof Mascara
Whether you’re diving into a pool or it’s just really hot out and you are sweating, waterproof mascara is a perfect way to prevent the dreaded raccoon eyes. Diorshow’s Waterproof Mascara will give you super-long lashes perfect for a night out, and Too Faced can give you the same high drama for a lower price. Clinique is a classic for a reason. And you can never go wrong with Chanel.
Highlighter
Highlighter is my number one trick to faking a sun-kissed look without the accompanying sun damage. Just dab a little bit in a C shape from your brow bone to your cheek bone, and a little down the bridge of your nose. Anywhere the sun hits, really. Ilia’s illuminator is a favorite, as is Merit’s Day Glow stick and Pat McGrath’s Highlighter and Balm for a more dramatic look.
Shop the rest of my summer beauty must-haves below:
All of our recommendations are curated by Susan & the In The Groove editorial team. In some, but not all cases, we receive a small commission for leading you to what, how and where to buy all this wonderful stuff.
