My Favorite Summer Beauty Staples (Copy)
Summer Glow Guide: My Favorite Beauty Products and Tips for Staying Cool & Confident
Best Summer Beach Hacks
Lightweight, glow-boosting, and humidity-proof favorites that keep me cool and fresh all day.
There’s something magical about summer—the long days, warm nights, and that golden hour light that makes everything feel like a movie. But let’s be honest: staying fresh and feeling good in the heat takes a little strategy. My summer mantra is always, “less is best”. I wear less makeup and fewer clothes (appropriately, of course), and I relax more, doing less. Summer is for spending time doing nothing, catching up with people, reading, and reflecting on the joy of the season.
Over the years, I’ve discovered some favorite beauty products and easy tips that help me feel like my best self, even on the stickiest days. These are the things I reach for again and again to stay cool, comfortable, and glowing all summer long…because I still like to look and feel my best while I am working on doing nothing.
🌿 My Go-To Summer Beauty Products
1. Tinted Moisturizer with SPF
I love a product that does double duty, and Supergoop Tinted Sunscreen is my summer favorite. A close second is Elta MD. They even out my skin tone without feeling heavy, and the added SPF keeps me protected when I’m out and about. Both are perfect for no-makeup days that still need a little polish - they each have different tint options.
2. Cream Blush for a Natural Flush
Cream blush is one of those small things that make a big difference. I’ve been using Jones Road Miracle Balm and Ogee Trio, and both blend so easily, giving my cheeks a healthy, sun-kissed look. They both stay in place even in the heat and provide just the right amount of glow and an all-day moisturized feeling
3. Waterproof Mascara That Actually Lasts
For me, a good mascara has to survive long days, summer sweat, and maybe even a dip in the pool. Lancome Waterproof Mascara checks all the boxes—lightweight, lengthening, and no smudges by mid-afternoon.
4. Cooling Face Mist
This is one of those little luxuries I didn’t know I needed until I tried it. I keep Avène Thermal Spring Water Mist in my bag or fridge and use it for a quick refresh throughout the day. It’s calming, hydrating, and gives my skin a soft boost.
5. Lightweight Hair Oil or Cream for Frizz Control
Humidity and I have a complicated relationship. Color WOW Extra Strength Dream Coat helps me keep my hair smooth and soft without weighing it down. It’s great post-shower or even mid-day when I need to tame flyaways.
6. A Deodorant That Actually Works
I’ve tried so many natural deodorants over the years—and let’s just say not all of them held up in summer. But EvolveTogether Plant Powered Deodorant has been a game-changer for me. It goes on smoothly, smells clean (body heat activated and not overpowering), and most importantly, keeps me feeling fresh even on long, sweaty days. I really enjoyed the sample pack of four scents - Of course, I love them all. I keep a travel-sized version in my bag, just in case. It’s one of those small things that make a big difference.☀️
Simple Tips for Feeling Cool and Looking Good
Keep hydration front and center.
It’s easy to forget, but water makes a big difference in how I feel and how my skin looks. I love using a pretty glass or bottle and adding lemon or cucumber to make it feel a little special. I am not one of those people who remember to bring a water bottle everywhere I go. I have to remind myself to drink water, and when I feel a little off, I've learned to try water first to solve all problems before resorting to anything else. My favorite water to buy is Liquid Death. Aside from the fact that it resembles a beer (because it comes in a can - not always the look I’m after), the taste is fantastic!
Choose breathable fabrics.
Loose cotton, linen, and anything flowy are my go-to summer staples. They help me stay cool and feel comfortable, especially when I’m running around hot and humid NOLA. I have my eye on this Tuxedo Vest from Anthropologie, this linen shirt from Tuckernuck and these staple white jeans from Franke and Eileen (I found a dupe of these that I might try from Quince 😉 )
Blot instead of powder.
I used to pile on powder in the heat, but now I reach for blotting sheets like Oil Absorbing Blotting Papers to gently remove shine without disturbing my makeup. It’s quick and makes a big difference.
Go for one bold feature.
If I’m short on time or energy, I’ll swipe on a vibrant lip color like Dior Addict Lip Glow and keep the rest simple. It adds a fun pop and instantly makes me feel more pulled together.
Chill your skincare.
Keeping things like eye cream or aloe gel in the fridge makes morning routines feel extra soothing—and really helps with puffiness. I actually love keeping these Mary Kay Hydrogel Eye Patches in the fridge for extra soothing, cool de-puff magic. This one does not need to be chilled but it keeps my skin glowing all summer long - Osea Body Scrub and Oil. It is my go-to after a sticky in the city or a sunny day at the beach (they also have a 15% discount code on the site).
Wrap-Up:
Summer can be a beautiful, busy, joy-filled season—but it also comes with heat, humidity, and a packed calendar. These products and habits help me feel more grounded and confident as I move through my days. I hope they do the same for you!
If you have any go-to summer favorites, let me know—I’m always looking for something new to try. Until then, here’s to staying cool, feeling good, and soaking up the sunshine.
Some (but not all) of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. I only share products I truly use and love.