The Wish List: Our Go-To Beauty Buys To Get Your Skin Glowing For Summer

While the weather might be hit and miss here in the UK, summer is definitely on the horizon and we’re beginning to prep for sunny weather, balmy temperatures and maybe a summer holiday (or two!). First step: get our beauty routine in order – because nobody wants to be piling on makeup or using harsh actives when the sun is shining. From lightweight makeup to gentle skincare, these are the multitasking products we’re turning to for brighter, clearer, glowing skin this summer (plus a few hair and body heroes, too!).

The Protective Tint

We all know that SPF is a summer (and everyday) essential, but adding makeup on top can often cause pilling. Enter the makeup-SPF hybrid – one that feels light and non-sticky can be a struggle, but Merit’s sheer tint delivers – and then some. It offers a hint of coverage without sacrificing on protection, and doesn’t feel like you have anything on. £34, MERIT

The Brightening Pads

Skin looking a little lacklustre? Make Vitamin C your friend. These easy-to-use, two-in-one pads bring together two key skin boosters (Vit C and green tea enzyme) in one easy application: first, sweep on the orange side of the biodegradable pad to brighten and even skintone, then flip it over to tone. Use daily and you’ll notice added radiance within a week. £28, INNISFREE at Cult Beauty

The Makeup Remover

Added sweat and SPF, mixed with a build-up of daily grime, can mean that summer is a prime time for your skin to become dull and congested – which means it’s time to start double cleansing. This Environ oil (recommended by award-winning facialist Joanne Evans) is the perfect first cleanse, removing products, sebum and even pollution. £28, Environ at Chelleon

The Deep Conditioner

We all know that heat can wreak havoc with our hair – and if yours is in need of a little TLC, Fenty’s damage repair treatment is the one. Apply as a mask on finer hair, or as a leave-in for coarser textures, and experience softer, smoother, more hydrated hair in literally minutes. (Tip: it’s also great for slicking your hair back into a bun – perfect for days by the pool.) £34, Fenty Hair at Selfridges

The Dewy Primer

Yes, the packaging is to die for, but beyond that, this hybrid formula means that Baby Beam is a primer and highlighter in one (saving you room in your carry-on). It’ll keep makeup in place all day (while Vitamins E and A provide added antioxidant protection), and the blurring, brightening finish means it’s even a beautifully subtle, sheer coverage to wear alone. £14, Glow Hub at LookFantastic

The Body Serum

You’ve surely heard of body creams, but... serums? Up your bodycare game by matching it to your skincare, applying this Joonbyrd serum straight before bed. By morning, you’ll feel the difference – as well as being more hydrated, skin will appear visibly firmer and stay softer for far longer. Just what we need as our legs emerge from winter hibernation. £78, Joonbyrd

The Blush Stick

If blush sticks haven’t already made their way into your everyday routine, it’s time they did. They’re a multitasking dream: sweep across the tops of your cheeks, over your nose, and on your eyelids and even your lips, then blend with fingertips to recreate that sought-after sunkissed flush with ease. £44, Westman Atelier at Cult Beauty

The Lip Oil

Sync is a new brand on the beauty scene, and we love what they’re about: straightforward, fuss-free products that look and feel great on the skin. Kicking off with a lip line, this nourishing lip oil (in three gorgeously subtle hues) is perfect for slicking on throughout the day to keep lips soft with a glossy shine. £23.05, Sync

The Cleansing Mask

For anyone who suffers from breakouts, particularly in the summer, this mask is a lifesaver. The combination of charcoal, tea tree and mineral mud deeply clears your pores, while shea butter delivers a hit of hydration for clearer, smoother skin in minutes. £12.60, Carbon Theory at Notino