Here in the UK, we’re holding on to the last days of summer: those warm evenings, bright mornings and a fuss-free beauty routine that prioritises nourished, glowing skin and a pared-back approach to makeup. With temperatures looking to stay balmy for September (and perhaps a last-minute holiday on the horizon), it‘s only right we tailor our skin, body and hair products to this extended summer – because nobody wants to be piling on makeup or using harsh actives when the sun is (hopefully) shining.
From lightweight makeup to gentle skincare, these are the multitasking products we’ve been relying on all summer long, for brighter, clearer complexions, hydrated hair and skin and a quick makeup refresh in an instant.
The Smudge-Proof Mascara
You know the drill: heat-induced sweat + additional layers of SPF = mascara sliding down your cheeks. Unless you opt for a tubing formula, which (as the name suggests) forms a tube-like coating of pigment around each individual lash, which prevents smudging or flaking. This vegan, cruelty-free formula by Kulfi not only adds instant volume to lashes, it also contains nourishing natural oils to condition with each swipe. A new favourite addition to our makeup bags. £26, Kulfi at Space NK
The Natural Deodorant (That Actually Works)
Turns out, it is possible to find a natural deodorant that keeps you dry all day long. Salt & Stone’s aluminum, alcohol, paraben and phthalate-free formula contains probiotics to neutralise odour and seaweed extract and hyaluronic acid to moisturise, and it glides onto skin without leaving a chalky residue. Plus, the santal and vetiver scent is so good, you won’t feel the need to wear fragrance. A year-round essential. £20, Salt & Stone at Sephora
The Mood-Boosting Scent
We’ve tried aromatherapy oils before – but this chic little roll-on by Moods takes things to the next level. This delicious ‘Charisma’ blend uses notes of ginger, lime, rose and sweet orange (to name a few) for a simultaneously energising and grounding effect. The scent has been clinically proven to calm physical stress responses and promote a sense of confidence – perfect for rolling on to pulse points before a night out, work event, or to sharpen your focus as we head into the September ‘fresh start’ mindset. £25, Moods at Space NK
The All-In-One Base
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 Toner
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 Hydrating (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
