Three Summer Beauty Products Our Editors Are Loving
What beauty stuff are you into these days? I always get a little more playful with makeup and hair in the summer, but I also cannot abide heavy-duty product when it’s hot outside. Fun, easy, and sweat-friendly — that’s the magic formula. Today, we’re sharing three summer beauty picks that the Cup of Jo editors are loving right now.
Jannelle’s pick: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
“Throughout my 20s, I used a high-end moisturizer from a department store. But during my second pregnancy, my skin became SO dry, and the face creams that had worked in the past felt like they were sitting on top of my skin instead of sinking into it. After researching even more expensive moisturizers, I felt so discouraged — I couldn’t justify spending $50 on a tiny jar that would last only a month.
“Finally, I reached out my friend who has eczema — if anyone would know the answer, she would. She recommended CeraVe Moisturizing Cream — the classic one in a tub — saying it had completely transformed her skin. Now, after two years of daily use, I, too, have witnessed CeraVe’s magical powers. It always feels like my skin drank a full glass of water. The cream doesn’t clog my pores, and my face looks glowy, never shiny — even on hot, sticky days. One tub lasts me at least five months, and when people compliment my skin, they’re always shocked that this simple moisturizer is the hero.”
Joanna’s pick: Tarte Cheek Plump and Tubing Mascara
“The other day, I walked by a mirror, and my face looked…gray? I needed a pop of color, and two great products I’ve recently discovered are cheek plump and tubing mascara. Blush sometimes sits on my dry (perimenopausal) skin, but this one is rosy and dewy and super lightweight — and, since it’s buildable, I swipe on just a bit for a natural look. And for date nights, have you ever tried tubing mascara? It’s wild! You apply it like a normal mascara, but it wraps your lashes in tubes so they immediately look much longer and thicker. The best part is, it keeps your lashes separated, not clumpy — so you look wide awake. I’d heard about tubing mascara for years, but never really understood it until now.” Bonus: Tarte is having a big summer sale with bestsellers from $5 to $25, until tomorrow morning.
Left: before. Center and right: after.
Kelsey’s pick: Christophe Robin Shade Variation Mask in Chic Copper
“I don’t get my hair professionally colored — for me, it’s too much hassle and expense — but I’ve always loved playing around with tinted shampoos and conditioners. This Christophe Robin one is the best I’ve ever found. It’s the perfect low-stakes color product. You just put it on after shampooing, instead of regular conditioner, and let it sit for five minutes before rinsing. Done!
“The mask gives your hair a boost, bringing out my auburn highlights and adding a wash of warmth and richness to my natural hair shade. The effect isn’t as dramatic as dye — but that’s what I love about it. There’s no prep work required, and no need for gloves or extra caution (it’s never stained my tub). And though it’s one of my splurgier products, the fact that I do pretty much nothing else with my hair makes it feel like a special treat. It’s just a little oomph, but it gives me such a lift.”
How about you? Any beauty faves that you’re loving this summer?
P.S. More beauty posts, including a five-second blush trick and four drugstore lipsticks with cult followings.
Note: If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. We recommend only products we genuinely like. Thank you so much.
Comments
148 commentsI would never have bought the stuff if my cousin hadn’t recommended it to me because the website and social media seems so scammy. But this stuff is magic and works! It’s hair dye “shampoo”, I think better branding would be to call it hair mask. But I resisted coloring my grays as long as I could, and then really didn’t want the upkeep of regular salon visits. I spent my whole childhood watching my mom color her hair once a month at home and it took a full morning and it also felt like such a production. The stuff is quick and easy literally takes 10 minutes and has never seen in my tub and I don’t understand why it’s not both more of a mainstream product and why it has negative reviews because it truly feels like magic I use the soft black, which is a really nice soft black as opposed to more harsh black hair dye. This link below should get you a discount and don’t fall for the “special promotions” they offer once you place your original order or you’ll end up getting like seven bottles of this stuff https://www.polarhaircare.com/VAISHNAVI04304
Wow, I’d never heard of this stuff! Intrigued…
I also stopped spending $$ on expensive face creams and serums. I’ve been using the Cetaphil cream (basically cerave) and its $20 for a giant tub and my skin feels amazing. All you really need is a prescription retinol and a simple cream. Wish I figured this out in my 20’s I would have saved so much money!
was hoping Jannelle would share her beauty products—her blush and lip color…so so pretty!
Thanks so much Katrina! In the photo above my ode to CeraVe, I’m wearing Tower28’s BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Dewy Cream Blush in Finest Hour. A little goes a long way, so dab just the tiniest bit on your finger before applying! xx https://go.shopmy.us/p-74774145
Like Janelle, I’ve used expensive moisturizers (from cute organic lines to luxury department store brands), but I always come to back to a product similar to Cerave: Eucerin Advanced Hydration Cream, which also comes in a massive tub, and which, I swear, works better than even the $100+ creams I’ve tried. I have rosacea and my skin is, in general, very cranky, so I also always keep on hand Avene’s Cicalfate cream to smear on red areas (I’ll pile it on at night and wake up to healed skin). None of it is glamorous but it really works. (And think of all that money one can instead spend on lip gloss!)
Oooh yes I’ve heard great reviews about Eucerin as well, my mother raves about their hand creams!
So many COJ and real-life recs for CeraVe have sent me researching and I can’t bring myself to buy it because of it’s status. I don’t want to love it and then have an ethical dilemma. Curious if any former users of CeraVe have found a comparable cruelty-free replacement?
Vanicream. It is thicker than CeraVe but they have other lighter moisturizers.
Jannelle, do you use the CeraVe morning and night – or do you use a different night cream? And for day, what do you use for SPF?
I use it day and night, and like to apply two extra layers at night because that’s when my skin feels extra dry. And for a while I was using Beauty Pie’s Traceless sunscreen, but I just finished my bottle and want to try another brand that has higher SPF. So I’d appreciate any recs! x
Ok, so! I was about to pull the trigger on Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen but then saw a tip that Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen is a perfect dupe- and it’s like $9! Wearing it right now over the CeraVe and can confirm it’s invisible, weightless, cannot even tell you’re wearing sunscreen. It’s SPF 40 – I might layer something over it for the beach (super fair skin), but I feel like it’s perfect for day-to-day.
oooh thank you! I used to use Supergoop but am curious abut Trader Joe’s dupe, I might give it a shot! x
Been using this one: Eucerin Sun Age Defense Face Sunscreen SPF 50, Hyaluronic Acid Lotion, 75mL For a few years now, and I quite like it.
+1 for the Trader Joes $9 sunscreen, I’ve worn it for years! It’s a gel formula. They also came out with a slightly more expensive mineral sunscreen for the face.
so…..I’ve been shaving the peach fuzz on my face?? I’m 51. I noticed a few years ago that foundation wasn’t sitting the same as it used to, but I hadn’t really looked closely at my face in a long time (too much self-acceptance in my crone stage to care much about how I look). got a few of those little razors and…. man, it’s like magic. does some good exfoliation too! 10/10
Oh, I am considering this too. Can I have a few questions? Do you do your whole face? Is it weird when it grows back? How often do you shave it off?
Glowy goddesses, all of you! It’s been too hot lately to bother with make-up, so I’ve been leaning into swiping on bright lip glosses and lipstick. Really loving the sheer lipstock Bisou Balm from Violette_Fr – it has the texture of lip balm and is perfect for swiping on the go
I picked up these Typology drops. Not quite a blush not quite a bronzer but they are great for warming up my skin and making my very pale face a bit more summery. I really love them! There is a true bronzer option as well. https://us.typology.com/products/roseglow-drops I also picked up a couple of new to me Burts Bees shades (Rose and Daisy) as they are allegedly what Margot Robbie wears in Wuthering Heights. Despite it’s popularity the Red Dahlia shade never did it for me but I’m loving both of these a lot.
Instead of spending money on expensive beauty products, I’ve been getting a facial once a month that includes dermaplaning my whole face and waxing my brows. Outside of that, I use a basic moisturizer and Supergoop Unseen sunscreen during the day, and a retinol at night. I might put a little blush on my cheeks and a swipe of tinted lip balm if I’m feeling it, but that’s it. I work in the tech field as an engineering manager, and I’m tired of feeling like I have to put so much more into my appearance because I’m a woman. So I don’t, and I want to help change that expectation for women who follow me.
Hear hear! I stopped wearing makeup to work about a decade ago. I have nothing against makeup and I like to use it when I want to feel fancy, but on the every day I hated how much time and money was going into something that didn’t make much of a difference to me throughout my day. It actually really helped when I was pregnant and my acne came back in full force, because I don’t think I could have covered it up well even if I tried and if I hadn’t had years in a no need for makeup mindframe, I might have spent many stressful hours and dollars on it.
I recently switched from an expensive moisturizer to La Roche-Posay Toleraine Double Repair and it’s AMAZING! I think it comes in at around $25.
Kelsey’s haircut is new to me, and it is fantastic on her. Love it! Regarding skincare, my menopausal skin that is now dry as sandpaper loves Beauty Pie’s Amazing Sleep Oil and Triple Hyaluronic Acid products. They are not anti-aging focused, but my skin sure does look better when hydrated.
Thank you! It’s pretty new to me too (but lots of fun!). 🥰
So many great recommendations! I’ve been using the CeraVe PM lotion forever and it truly is the best daily moisturizer. Lately, my go-to’s are: – Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen (over my CeraVe!). It’s a perfect primer for any other makeup. – ELF Incredicurl mascara. I combed this site to find this recommendation from Janelle because her recs are so wonderful! Let me tell you – this mascara will hold your curl like nothing else. It’s lightweight and doesn’t smudge or flake all day! – Saltair HA body serum. A great, lightweight moisturizer that makes my skin so soft! You can get it bundled from their site with one of their lovely smelling body washes too!
Trader Joe’s makes a $9 super goop dupe! I can’t tell the difference after using both for many years except the price tag.
So glad to hear you like Incredicurl, it’s so good! x
Cannot say enough about Prequel products – I use their gentle but effective face wash followed by micellar cleanser. I love their retinol too. Such accessible prices. I formerly was Dr. Ellis’s patient here in the Bay Area – hard to get an appointment now but she’s great.
I also really like Prequel! Their mineral sunscreen has replaced Elta MD for me. It has a slightly pink tint that sort of minimizes my sallow-ness.
I am bummed to have two duds from the Prequel line so far :( They seemed so promising. The gleanser wash irritated my eyes (never an issue for me before) and the multiquench serum caused scattered breakouts each time I tried. Sticking with Cetaphil!
I love Prequel! Every product I have tried has been good. Good value and fairly priced too. My favorite is the redness relief cleanser. I have fair sensitive skin and Rosacea and this cleanser is the best! a little goes a long way. I use this line almost exclusively.
Speaking of beauty standards, I recommend the recent (7/22) Fresh Air episode with Jia Tolentino on “instagram face” and the rise of plastic surgery.
I haven’t listened to it yet but I read the article. I love this bit about what she tries to do as an example to her daughter – “I never want her to see within me that the purpose of being a woman is to be as beautiful as possible all the time and to never look old, to never change”
Yes, I read this when it came out. That was a great article, I love her she’s one of my favorite journalists.
Yes I read her New Yorker piece and although I was toying with Botox (37, two kids, very tired) I have now decided against it. I want my face to be a window to my soul. I want my daughter to see I am still beautiful just as I am.
Can I just say that Janelle absolutely slays?! She glows in every beauty feature, and her recommendations are always fresh and approachable. These posts make me feel like a teenager, sitting on my bedroom floor with friends doing each other’s makeup (in the best way).
Oh my gosh you just made my day, thank you Hawley! xxx
I have one of the milk jelly blushes in the peachy tone and use that in my lips and cheeks. I like to fluff up my brows with gel or a pencil. The other day I was wondering if I should or should not put the effort in and put some makeup on- and I didn’t. And then I met my new therapist and she wasn’t wearing any at all either and it felt so lovely.
Kim, I really love this comment. it feels quietly revolutionary.
Aww, thanks Jo. ❤️
I’m returning to work soon after having a baby. I went to my local skincare shop and asked the lady there to help me with a quick routine that will make me feel put together when I switch from mom mode to work mode. She helped me so much! The one product that blew my mind: Trish McEvoy’s Instant Eye Lift. It actually covers my dark circles and blends seamlessly with the rest of my face (I refuse to even wear a tinted moisturizer bc I’m that lazy).
COJ Team – Would you consider a post on ageing featuring Ashton Applewhite? She is an amazing author and advocate who writes and speaks broadly on the topic. I think this hive would love her insights and discussions. Here is a link to her new Substack and her website, which includes her rad vision. Thank you! https://ashtonapplewhite.substack.com/about https://thischairrocks.com/ “Aging isn’t a problem to be solved. Or a disease to be cured. Or something icky that old people do. It’s how we move through life, and more of us are doing more of it than ever before in human history. What stands between us and making the most of these longer lives? Ageism: judging, stereotyping, and discriminating against people on the basis of how old we think they are. Solve for ageism and we also address sexism (aging is gendered), ableism (disability is stigmatized), and racism (which denies multitudes the chance to age at all).”
I’m not familiar with Applewhite but I’m a super thumbs up on the topic. Literally the most joyous thing I’ve discovered in menopause is the freedom from trying to look years younger (I’m not talking about letting go). My friends and I talk about how to share this discovery with our younger friends because the physical/mental/emotional/financial pressure comes from marketing (often males) and is something that can be let go far earlier.
I’m with you both, I grew up with a very male centered mother. When I started to see the signs of aging, I freaked out more than I expected to. I hadn’t realized how much of my ego was focused on my looks. It was a real come to Jesus moment. There’s something to me that seems terribly desperate about trying to look 25 at 60, for example.
It may seem small, but I really wish media companies would stop posting celebrities’ ages right after their name for articles that have NOTHING to do with their age. It’s such a constant, automatic thing, especially with female celebrities. “Jane Smith, 48, was at an event promoting her movie …yada, yada, yada.”
I finally caved and bought Ilia Super Serum with SPF. I can’t stand make up, especially in the summer but this has been a delight. I moisturize with jojoba oil, let it soak in completely then I do a light layer of the Ilia. It gives me a nice glow without being greasy and it guarantees I don’t forget sunscreen. I also love that it corrects some of the red zones on my face. Expensive, but one and done for me!
HUGE recc for the Abib Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar! (and generally, sunscreen sticks for your face). A few years ago on a family beach trip, my sister was raving about using sunscreen sticks for her kids – easier to apply, less drippy into eyes, no sandy hands making sandy sunscreen faces! I bought one from Sunbum and have been using it for years – love it! Then this year, I bought the Abib Airy Sunstick and it is more expensive, has all the benefits of any sunscreen stick, but is so much better! The formula is great – not too thick or greasy. The bar itself is curved, which makes application really easy! Cannot recommend it enough.
After years of my brother telling me I needed to switch to a sunscreen stick, I finally did it this year. It’s just as life-changing as he said it would be (but don’t tell him I said that! lol). I got a Neutrogena sport one, on his rec.
What tinted moisturizer do people love that feel weightless and is cruelty free? I feel like some of my friends absolutely rock a bold red lip when going out anywhere and my lips are just small and that does not work for me. I’d love to have one thing that I can turn to that just pops my vibe a little (like a bold lip). So maybe it’s tinted moisturizer or maybe folks have another idea? Thanks for the help!
Not 100% sure about cruelty free but I’ve been using Avene tinted moisturiser for years and as it’s got SPF 50 it’s perfect for summer (although I wear it all year round)!
I would say tinted moisturizer is pretty boring. Try a crazy mascara color or eyeliner. I have purple mascara and it’s my favorite.
I don’t think tinted moisturizer will pop in the same way as a bold lip.. I use the Saie Slip Tint SPF 35 Tinted Moisturizer, and it helps me feel like a no makeup look without looking as uneven or as Jo put it, grey. But it isn’t a pop or standout vibe, and it’s barely there. What about a shimmery cheek or cat eyeliner?
If you have normal to dry skin, you might like Jones Road tinted moisturizer. The standard What the Foundation offers a tad more coverage and isn’t heavy either.
Paula’s Choice Essential Glow
I also use jones road tinted moisturizer and like it. For a little something extra, their miracle balms are fun, and sometimes there are sample sizes, so a low commitment. I like their kits to try new things.
I don’t know if it’s because it’s summer or just a ‘season’ I’m in, but I really have been loving blue mascara from Bad Gal. It’s the only make up besides lip balm I wear. Also and because it is summer, keeping lotion and face cream in the fridge!
Love to have beauty products like my eye cream or a face mask in the fridge on really hot summer days
Blue – I haven’t tried that since high school, but I do remember loving it! And all applicable beauty products in the fridge, most definitely. About to grab my cheek tint out of there now.
Milk jelly blush and Moroccan oil texture spray in my hair. It is SO HUMID in NC though it feels like you walk into soup when you go outside…hard to wear any beauty products at all when your face/hair is melting!
I don’t know if it’s hormones or what but my face sweats *so much* these days. Like other people are totally cool and I can feel the drips streaming down. Does anyone else have this problem? I feel like I need a multi-pronged approach for this, or just to carry around a gym towel 24/7 and pretend like it’s socially acceptable to mop the sweat off my face with it every two minutes. Seriously, I can’t be the only one, but it sure feels like it…. Please help!
May I ask which part of your face is sweating is it up in your hairline or on your upper lip? If it’s up in your hairline you can always Botox it 😬 I know some people won’t like that answer but it’s fantastic if you’re a major sweater haha. Obviously can’t do that if it’s upper lip. There are some great sweat proofing primers you could google for!
Are you on any meds that can contribute to this?
Every single part of me- parts I didn’t know I had, have sweated all over me for months. Like how can my eyelid be hot? Honestly? My husband is an avid cyclist and I sweat more than he does, I’m sure of it.
I’ve rediscovered blotting sheets this summer and they are wonderful, the Kiko Milano brand. I live in NE Florida, where it is currently HOT and humid, and these allow me to show up to afternoon meetings without looking a wilted mess.
I was almost a tiny bit…self-conscious when my sister gifted me a pack around a decade ago? Then I tried them, and there was no going back. I wanted to be one of those “sweat is natural” people and just embrace it, but I’m convinced that they trick my brain into thinking it’s a perfect, temperate Fall day.
My friend just started a small business selling diy lashes that come pre-glued. They can last up to a week, and I don’t have to worry about getting all my eye-makeup off at the end of the day. I don’t wear a lot of makeup in the summer, but I feel like I look more awake and put together when I’m wearing these. https://honeymoonlashes.com/
Ohhh I’ve been wanting to try DIY lashes-are they tricky to apply? How long does it take?
I’m going to try them!
@Kim Rhodes there was a bit of a learning curve because I hadn’t done fake lashes before. I’ve been using them now for 2 months and I can do them in about 5 min.
My beloved Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick blush-bronzer-highlighter was discontinued, If anyone knows of a good replacement, please let me know!
Like your average teen (I’m 33 lol) I’m really into Rhode. Love the Glazing Milk all year round and the Pocket Blush in Spicy Marg in the summer. The blush looks like a crazy bright coral in the tube but on your cheeks (and bridge of your nose) looks like the glow you get after being in the sun. Easy to travel with too
Jannelle! Perfect timing! New York City’s smoky skies have triggered my eczema so I am tweaking my routine and I’m excited to try this. Question! Will you walk me through your layering of products? Do you put this on after washing your face in the morning? What next? And how about SPF? Thank you!!
Hi! I also am a big user of the cerave cream. I wash with basic cetaphil, then cerave cream, and then sunscreen after. I feel like my skin is glowing throughout my day.
Hi!! Sorry to hear about the eczema but happy to help! In the mornings I only rinse my face sigh water, then put the on the CeraVe cream before putting on makeup! I used to use the spf I mention in this skincare post (https://cupofjo.com/2026/04/16/what-are-your-holy-grail-skincare-products/) but I ran out and haven’t restocked! In the evenings, I’ll use micellar water to remove my makeup, then rinse with Cetaphil’s daily cleanser, then apply a nice layer of the CeraVe cream before bed. X
ELF Soft Glam Cream Blush wowed me after a recent big product haul where I went high and low. note: I am a sucker for luxe packaging. Rare beauty’s Soft Pinch is anything but soft -. 1/2 a drop and I looked sunburned. Never figured out how to wear it. Merit Flush Shtick – GORGEOUS for 2 seconds and then disappears. ELF is a fraction of the cost, solid pigment level and lasts for pennies. I am hooked!!!
Yesss another Jules seconds this endorsement the elf cream blush is perfect
Omg Jules, thank you! I picked up this elf blush this morning, and I am amazed! I was previously using merit but also freely frustrated how quickly it disappeared. Thank you !!!
Just added to cart!!! Thanks for the rec I have been using the same compact of blush for 13+ years and it’s probably time to replace it!
I’m going to have to try the ELF cream blush after reading Cristy’s comment because I also find Merit’s blushes disappearing so quickly. Thanks, Jules!
And more broadly for myself – it’s winter here in Aus, but Sydney gets warm from August onwards. I’ve been wearing my clothes down to death (Tshirts with holes, undies bagging out, socks all dead and worn), which is exactly what I like doing: using things to their full potential! That means next month it’ll be a restock of fresh clothes, a mix of RTW and my own sewing, ready for September & welcoming in Spring.
That sounds so sustainable and satisfying, Katie! I’m very much a beginner sewist, but I’ve collected a few unused patterns – they’re cheap here in Canada, since sewing isn’t big – and am hoping for a few closet refreshers myself. They surely won’t look as polished as RTW, but I’m trying to believe the journey is the whole point!
Ha, this post is perfect timing for me as I get to spend part of my weekend shopping (haven’t in ~6 months!) AND I’m due a work-milestone celebration splurge. I also love all the drugstore makeup/skin care recs, because I’ll be in close proximity to 2-3 of these stores, thus can try allllll the colours!
crown affair leave in conditioner and air dry really helps the frizz. nudestix blush with spf. isdin tinted moisturizer with spf…
Anyone dying their eyebrows at home in the US? What are you using? For whatever reason at home brow tinting products are limited here….I used to buy 1000 Hours off Amazon but no longer do Amazon. Then I was using Just for Men beard dye but got nervous because it’s not meant for brows. I moved to having it professionally done but it’s really so so easy to do at home and so much cheaper so I stopped. It’s one of those high maintenance to be low maintenance moves I love though so any product suggestions?
I use the Just for Men beard dye for my eyebrows and find it works great, not sure why it could be different (safe-wise) beard to eyebrows? I leave it on for 7 minutes, and make sure to only have it on my hair (not my skin). I love how quick, easy, and cheap it is, especially for the results!
I had also been using Just for Men beard dye but recently got spooked! Looking for something that lasts just as long though. So many products fade on me after 2-3 days :(
Just for Men Dye is perfect- I use it in my brows for about 2 minutes, and it perfectly done . Easy and low maintenance. I can do as needed from comfort of my home. Been using it for 3 or 4 years now.
I use J4M too and it works great 🤷🏻♀️
Just for men is a-okay! Just don’t get it in your eyeballs lol. It’s perfectly safe. The dye they are using at the salon is also not meant for eye brows
Another Just for Men user! I put Vaseline around my brows first (so the dye doesn’t go where I don’t want it to) and go for it. Sometimes I do a swipe of J4M through my graying hair to get some brown contrast too.
There is one you can get at beauty stores or the bezos site- refectocil I believe it’s called. It’s just like the others, but you can get more custom with colors (I have auburn hair.) you can buy a kit usually or get the developer separately. Lasts forever.
The refectocil and developer are made for eyebrow and eyelash dying use.
Thank you, everyone, this is all the reassurance I need and looks like I’m buying another box of Just for Men!
I love these comments about no-nonsense, hard working products that don’t cost a lot. Ora’s Amazing Herbal products are my rec, because they work like a charm on sensitive skin and prices are good. I use the body oils and calendula salve every day. It’s too hot for makeup, or clothing really, but I bought Westman Atelier vital pressed face skincare powder in translucent on sale (still a splurge, but I love the glow) and that’s all I wear these days, with a little mascara. Works well enough. (hurry up, autumn)
Joanna, you and I seem to have very similar hair texture and weight- have you ever considered going shorter? Like maybe just above or at your shoulders? I know you say you’ve had the same haircut forever, but when I cut my hair shorter I felt like it was a revelation and wonder if you’d feel the same. Your hair looks great now! I was just struck in this pic especially about how similar our hair is. I use a sheer redness reducer cream and a creamy blush and call it a day in the summer. Anything more feels like a mask in our hot and humid weather!
I totally think Joanna should get a bob/go shorter! Live dangerously— mix it up— it will grow back!
What a fun post. I’m going to try the shade variation mask! I don’t wear much makeup. My routine is generally, a gentle cleanser and then I’ll apply: Snail Mucin Power Essence:https://www.ulta.com/p/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence-xlsImpprod15641052?sku=2504912&cmpid=PS_Non!google!Product_Listing_Ads&cagpspn=pla&CATCI=&CAAGID=&CAWELAID=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21821954779&gbraid=0AAAAAD9rLH4J7HEO_tXXkHkxxe6V_xdD4&gclid=Cj0KCQjw94bTBhDQARIsAN3vv0yI4_44RZY7AAP3nEM5RYtqftg4Dw3g_3mJwzi4BN1NGTm5TsIoW50aAqm0EALw_wcB Love the La Roche Posay Double Repair Moisturizer for my very sensitive skin that is prone to being dry: https://www.target.com/p/la-roche-posay-toleriane-double-repair-face-moisturizer-with-ceramide-and-niacinamide-3-38-fl-oz/-/A-51195618?sid=®ion_id=2717&TCID=PDS-22806998578&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22797430203&gbraid=0AAAAAD-5dfbFXxYXT5angWWXLcgalOfMb&gclid=Cj0KCQjw94bTBhDQARIsAN3vv0yveScYvSugzKqY0wqmyR6QyhSIj7m2eIqvjXjVPoHxd-n9Ho1NplIaAn1CEALw_wcB SuperGoop Unseen Sunscreen (or the Trader Joes dupe) https://supergoop.com/products/unseen-sunscreen-spf-50?variant=41610270802018 https://www.traderjoes.com/home/products/pdp/daily-facial-sunscreen-spf-40-073568 When I want to wear makeup I just do two products: Thrive Cosmetic’s tubing mascara in charcoal https://thrivecausemetics.com/products/liquid-lash-extensions-mascara?nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ag%3A21184881497%3A161463213496%3A696463997463&nb_adtype=&nb_kwd=tubing+mascara&nb_ti=kwd-21405611340&nb_mi=&nb_pc=&nb_pi=&nb_ppi=&nb_placement=&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_fii=&nb_ap=&nb_mt=e&utm_content=nonbrandedsearch&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21184881497&gbraid=0AAAAADlWkGc5j5iegSxigYdVaUWWKC7iJ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw94bTBhDQARIsAN3vv0x9XMclEAANP_xWbpFLkpBPbKL_XrZ3-5nl2hf4usiuAP4LyA8CfUoaAkmwEALw_wcB Thrive Cosmetics Eye Brigthener in Stella https://thrivecausemetics.com/products/brilliant-eye-brightener?queryID=f6f8d7ab85783045471216933d4423ec&indexName=shopify_products&variant=29953118924
Unfortunately (for my wallet) I’ve learned over the past 2 years that Chanel makeup is really that good. I don’t own a lot of makeup, I prefer to have one or two items in each category for the most part and as I run out of items I have been replacing them with Chanel. It’s quite chic to have a slim makeup wardrobe, isn’t it? My three hero Chanel products are the eclat premier bright compact foundation which I wear on top of moisturizer, then I put on the no 1 lip and cheek balm in the shade vital beige (like to swipe it on both cheeks and lips, gorgeous natural flush of colour), and the baume essential highlighter in the shade sculpting (gives such a glowy look to the skin). Aside from these three I only wear moisturizer, sunscreen, eyebrow pencil, and sometimes a liquid glow highlighter. Genuinely since I switched to these three products compliments on my makeup/skin have jumped tremendously and more importantly wearing this feels like the prettiest, happiest version of myself.
My 3 favorite products this summer: – Lisa Eldridge Liquid Silk Eyeshadow in Paige. It goes on so smoothly, covers up any eyelid redness and makes for a very natural eye look. It’s a matte eyeshadow, but isn’t drying and it doesn’t crease. Great for mature eyes ! Pricey, but worth it. – Makeup by Mario Softsculpt Transforming Skin Enhancer. I put it on bare skin and it evens it out a bit, adds a bit of warmth and gives my face a subtle glow. – Essie nail polish in Watermelon. Such a great summer color.
Jannelle, I’m so grateful to you for sharing a drugstore-priced product that really works! Several studies show that women will spend nearly $300K (!!!) over a lifetime on these kinds of products, so having such a basic, every-day one in one’s back pocket is literally money!
Aww this makes me so happy! xx
Yes!!! Thank you Janelle, it’s beyond refreshing. It feels almost rebellious to stick to the simplicity, and talk frankly about justifying the spend x
Also has anyone tried Wonderskin lip stains? Here in Europe they’re all the rage, but can’t figure out if they last, if they’re nice, and Hope they don’t contain ghastly things as they are supposed to last so long? Xxx
That’s the white tube and it goes on blue, but after a few minutes you wipe it off and lips are stained? YES! I have two – one bright pink and one mauve that is a bit darker than my regular lip color. I LOVE the lip stain. It stains for hours – 6-8 at least. It doesn’t taste weird or dry out lips and I swipe on chapstick throughout the day for a refresh. Highly recommend.
Yes! I have to say they are pretty great! Not too drying, super easy to use, and always tons of compliments. Get the kit, not just the stain. I was shocked how much easier the remover spray made things, it’s super worth it! And just note they apply darker than the colors seem online – be warned! I’m about to purchase one that looks like it would be too light for me, hoping that’s the perfect match :)
I too started using CeraVe mositurizing cream (after a doctor recommended it after breaking out), and haven’t looked back! My skin always soaks it up and feels so soft! Also love Cetaphil facial cleanser and face moisturizer sunscreen lotion!
Yess!! I love Cetaphil, too :)
CeraVe also makes an “AM” moisturizer with SPF! I’ve been using it every day for years, and I love it.
Another great CeraVe product: Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser (what a mouthful!) I’ve yet to see any foam but this stuff never leaves my skin feeling dry or tight, even in the winter. Also, it’s an easy to find drugstore product that lasts a long time since you only need to use a little bit each time.
Totally second Caroline’s Hydrating Foaming Oil cleanser!!! I use it when I’m shaving my legs and it really makes my drying-out perimenopausal skin happy.
My summer beauty flex is taking really excellent care of my feet so I can fat bike, hike, run, swim without pain. A 40% urea cream and a footlogix file are keeping my feet callous- and crack-free. Slugs of jojoba oil keep them moisturized.
thanks for the reminder – my feet are so neglected!
Such a smart take, Water. Mine could use the help. Googling urea cream right now! Happy Active Summer to you.
Oh how absolutely relaxing it is to sit down, kids in bed, and read this post and the comments and wait for more comments to arrive!! I’m 38 and in a constant battle between the me who wants to care little about looks and the me that really cares! And post kids body, plus Paxil extra weight doesn’t help! I think maybe i should get a tattoo? Or dye my hair for the first time? Eventually I calm down and get myself a little treat from what you all suggested. Xxx Giulia
Giulia, are you my twin?
Grace, let’s be friends! :) and sending you a hug
I feel this so much! And I just got a tattoo at 41. It was great, 10/10 would recommend!
My surprise standout this summer is eucerin tinted sunscreen. I was skeptical at first bc often the mineral sunscreens, esp the tinted ones feel too heavy and like they’re sitting on top of my skin, trying to melt off. But my derm gave me some samples to try, because she swears by it, and it’s actually really nice and evens everything out without looking too gloppy. Still prefer the joseon rice sunscreen tho bc it’s so weightless.
I tried the CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Sheer Tint, and find it to be thick and heavy. At the end of the day it takes a lot to clean it off my skin… like a dense foundation. Maybe I’ll try this Eucerin one, thanks!
What a fun post! A few of my summer faves: – Merit lipstick in Frambroise topped w/ Tower 28 lip gloss in Pistachio (combined its a deep pink lip and doesn’t rub off as fast as just gloss) – Naked Sundays gel face sunscreen – feels good on and protects my pale, sensitive skin really well – OPI nail polish in cajun shrimp for a fun pop of color
Cajun Shrimp is my all time favorite go-to polish color. For decades. I love it so much!
I love a no-makeup-makeup look in the summer, but feel like mascara is always the give away. At the same time, I crave just a little extra definition and curl. This summer I discovered the 19/99 lash tint and it’s absolutely perfect! Super light, doesn’t smudge or come off in sweat, and adds just a hint of color and curl. Beware that this really is a lash tint, not mascara. It’s like a tinted chapstick for your eyelashes.
Does this flake? I’ve been in search for a million years for a replacement for the old neutrogena lash gloss and this sounds like a maybe!
I have not had any issues with flaking!
Have your tired having your lashes tinted? I’m not crazy about the feel of mascara, so I regularly have my eyebrows and eyelashes tinted. It’s so nicest to have to think about it. I still doll up if I’m going our and add mascara and liner for extra oomph!
Kat, I too have longed for many years to find a replacement for the old neutrogena lash tint. Super intrigued by this one and any other recommendations!
Just doing the typical CereVe facewash and retinol at night, plus tinted moisturizer, sunscreen, mascara and lip gloss during the day. Love elf’s lip gloss. I learned the hard way, DO NOT buy products that say “plumping” on them unless you want your lips to burn like hot peppers. My Gen Zer laughed at me and assumed I would know this :(.
Ooohhh the elf plumping gloss is the only plumper EVER that hasn’t burned for me! I’m obsessed with it.
I stopped buying any product marketed as ‘anti aging’ or anything related to ‘aging’, really. That includes my once-beloved Tret. So now it’s just SPF, Aquaphor, and gentle facial cleansing wash haha. Also trying to look at my visage, in the mirror and in photos, and using neutral language to describe what I see. It’s an effort each time because of decades-long patterns of using very harsh words about my looks. Anyway I do live vicariously by reading what others use for beauty products ;)
I love that! I might do the same!
I try to justify “anti-aging” products by focusing instead on keeping my skin healthy. I wish they weren’t marketed as “anti-aging” but instead as moisturizing and hydrating. It’s a struggle to balance wanting healthy skin and trying to feel positive about my aging skin. Anyways, I’m with you in spirit, but I still “anti-aging” products just try to think of it as good skin care.
Train your eye to be kind to yourself! I’m 66 and have been all over the map with make-up, including having to wear it for work (stage make-up). Now I use Aveeno SPF and if I feel wan I’ll put a drop of Benetint on cheeks and a wash of Stila Kitten eyeshadow on my eyelids. That’s it. If I’m going out, sometimes Burt’s Bees Red Dahlia on lips. But mostly just my aging self, eye bags, wrinkles and all. And it’s ok.
Joaquina – I started doing the same a couple years ago! I also don’t respond to anything marketed as “get skinny”, “lose weight” or “get summer ready”. I do respond to getting healthy or strong! Between this, our unique names and the vegan sandwiches from the last post – I feel like we’re friends!
If you’d like some hair shine with out the added color, I love this product: John Frieda Luminous Glaze Clear Shine Gloss It makes my hair feel shiny and smooth. I only need to use it once a month I also love tubing mascara- as an added bonus, it doesn’t smear and comes off with just warm water
Cannot share the love for the Tarte mascara, which I found rather clumpy. Personally I’m turning into a Jones Road devotee–although their foundation is way too greasy on my oily skin, both their Miracle Balm (for blush and the subtlest possible countouring) and Sparkle Wash (subtle glitter and color for the eyelids) have made great summertime companions. I’m also using my Ogee color sticks, which for me are too chalky in cold weather but work a lot better once the mercury rises.
I love them too!!
I’ve been loving ELF’s lip tints! They are only $6, very forgiving and last well for a pop of color!
I bought this Charlotte Tilsbury Unreal Glow Blush Stick – in Peachy Glow after reading one of your posts about blush. It is a bit colorful but I LOVE it for the summer and I get complements on my “summer glow”.
oooh this sounds so pretty Erin!
As a pale-queen, I stay sun-screened UP and lean hard into my self-tanners over the summer as follows: -Beauty by Earth Self-Tanner, shade medium: amazing for us pale-girlies, does not turn orange and has no smell! Started using it during pregnancy and have never looked back. -St. Tropez Self-Tanner (classic foam) in lieu of bronzer for my face: I put this wherever I would use bronzer and let it do its thing! It last for days and makes it look like you always have a lil something on, even with no make-up (tip- I love to put it on my lips for a lovely, blush/rose stain that lasts!) And finally, if you ever need to wash tanner off of your hands, use Dr. Bronners! It is the only soap that will LEGIT get allll the stain out.
Thank you for figure this out!
I’m so scared of using self tanner- I am going on a beach vacation next week and I’m SO tempted to try this!
Another pale girlie here. The tinted sun bum face sunscreen has been my foundation replacement year round. It gives me just a little bit of color, a little sun protection (I still use a coat of non-tinted sunscreen underneath – Prequel’s liquidy one is my fave!), and a nice glow. Also A+++ for the St. Tropez bronzer. I use it weekly and look sun-kissed but not orange. Highly recommend getting a mitt to apply it so it doesn’t turn your hands unnatural colors.
I got tired of never getting self-tanner right. Unfortunately, when I would sweat, it would fade unevenly. Even the St. Tropez. Now I use Tinge body makeup – it’s the best! Gives you color with no weird smell, unevenness, or waiting.
I took a comment section tip and picked up TJ’s Lemongrass oil! At first it’s a shock of lemongrass and I feel like a mosquito candle, and then it mellows out into a really gentle earthy scent that lingers all day.
I love that stuff! I have a pump bottle in my shower right now!
Ooh I just bought that yesterday but haven’t tried it yet… and the mosquito candle reference isn’t even putting me off. I remember being at an outdoor music festival and saying “Why does it smell so good?” My husband informed me it was everyone’s bug spray…I guess I like that scent!
So of course I’m wondering, might it actually help repel mosquitoes?