Don't let the past few months keep you from enjoying your hot girl summer [1] (is that what we're calling it again?) this year. Even with new social-distancing measures in place, there is still outdoor space for everyone to enjoy — face masks and all [2]. But before you do, don't forget to make sure your beauty routine — especially your makeup and skin-care lineup — is prepped for the change in seasons.
Much like the ways you heavy up on moisturiser in the winter and refine your routine in the spring [3], there are tons of summer-friendly key products and swaps that can seriously change the game. And if, by now, you've gotten used to a minimal beauty routine and intend to keep that going, these can help ensure your skin looks and feels its best. See what we mean ahead as we share some of our favourite summer beauty swaps and products.
Go Light on Foundation
It's easy to get into the habit of wearing foundation every day, but during the hottest months of the year, lightweight is the way to go. We suggest swapping your full-coverage foundation for something a little more sheer, like the Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser [4] ($45). Of course, concealer can still help manage breakouts and discoloration, but a tinted moisturiser will allow the rest of your skin to breathe while emphasising its natural dew.
Lighten Up (on the Moisturiser)
In a similar vein, you can probably move your thickest and most emollient face creams to the back of your medicine cabinet. Now is the time to let your lightweight formulas take centre stage. Even those with oily skin will love the Farmacy Beauty Honey Drop Lightweight Moisturiser [5] ($45). With a soft honey scent, a gel texture, and clean ingredients, it's the perfect way to get in your daily dose of hydration without clogging your pores or giving your skin more than it needs.
Keep Refreshments Close
In the same way your body needs water to feel hydrated and refreshed, your skin can also benefit from extra moisture. For an extremely on-the-go-friendly solution, throw a facial spray — i.e. La Roche-Posay's Thermal Spring Water [6] ($13) — in your bag. Whether you use it after a sweaty outdoor workout or a day at the beach, this can help you cool down and feel brand new.
Scrub Away the Flakes
Summer humidity can work wonders for those who struggle with chapped, flaky lips in the winter. But to help ensure all of the dead skin and dry patches are truly gone, you'll want to keep a lip scrub on hand. The Beauty by POPSUGAR Be Smooth Sugar Lip Scrub [7] ($11, originally $22) is compact, mess-free, and gentle enough for regular use.
Amp Up Your SPF Use
Say it with us now: SPF is a year-round necessity — even on gloomy days. While we hope facial SPF is already part of your daily beauty routine, the sun is extra unforgiving in the summer, so it's a good time to check in and make sure your bases are covered. If you're the type to opt for a pared-down beauty routine, the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen [8] ($34) is an amazing multifunctional option that will also hold your makeup in place. And when it comes to reapplying or keeping other areas protected, scalp and powder sunscreens will be your BFFs.
Don't Ignore Dark Spots
Dealing with dark spots is never fun, but add extra sun exposure to the mix, and they can be even tougher to get a handle on. The major issue? Sun makes dark spots even darker — potentially causing new ones to appear. In a season where #nomakeupmakeup is often the goal, finding the right products can make all the difference. The Ole Henriksen Glow2OH Dark Spot Toner [9] ($29) is one of our favourite solutions; just swap it out with your regular toner, and watch your spots fade.
Set Yourself Up For Success
For maximum skin protection and staying power, it's always a good idea to prep and set your makeup. In the summer, however, this is even more important to ensure your makeup doesn't melt right off. Depending on your skin type, some might even choose a special setting spray that sets and mattifies, like the Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Matte Setting Spray [10] ($33). And if you need a little extra SPF assurance, the E.l.f. Beauty Shield SPF 50 Skin Shielding Primer [11] ($12) is a top-rated, affordable primer.
Love all things beauty? Can't get enough products? Come join our Facebook Group, Real Reviews With POPSUGAR Beauty [12]! There are lots of fun conversations happening there, as well as all the product recommendations you could ask for — not just from us, but also community members, too.