Summer Staples

I love summer. It brings cookouts, pool days, vacations, and my birthday! Summer also causes me to switch out my staple products. The makeup I keep in my bag has to account for the the likelihood anything I put on will melt off approximately 2.5 seconds after I walk out into the blistering heat. I switch over to lighter summer scents around the house and my mainly black wardrobe is worn selectively. Check out some of my summer staples below:

Summer Staples

Sunscreen – This is totally non-negotiable. Sunscreen not only protects from skin cancers, but it prevents aging and dark spots on the skin. If you’re currently using acne medications, or fighting dark spots like I am, an SPF of at least SPF 15 is essential! Right now I’m using CeraVe Suncare Sunscreen Face SPF 50 and Paula’s Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50.

Makeup That Won’t Melt –  Lately, looking at my weather app, I see things like 92° feels like 97°.  I don’t want to put on clothes, much less makeup, but c’est la vie. However, if I’m going to make the effort to throw some makeup on, I want it to last all day. That’s why I love a good matte primer like Rimmel Stay Matte Primer or Ulta Professional Matte Prime. I also appreciate a nice matte foundation like BECCA Ever Matte Shine Proof Foundation or the L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte 24HR Foundation. Waterproof mascara is another summer staple. Some of my favorites are: CoverGirl’s LashBlast Plumpify Waterproof Mascara and Urban Decay Cannonball Ultra Waterproof Mascara. Finally, nothing boots your natural summer glow than a good highlighter. I’ve been in love with the SheaMoisture Illuminating Powders, but I’m adding Marc Jacobs’ Beauty Glow Stick Glistening Illuminator to my summer staples list. I received this product from Influenster and initially thought there was no way this shade would work on my skin tone. I was wrong. It was gorgeous and its flattering for all skin tones. I’ve got some additional highlighter options for all my beauties (fair to dark skin) below.

I’m not a beauty blogger, but as a product junkie I think I’m qualified to make a few suggestions.

Hydration Station – Water, water, water. Find yourself a super cute water bottle and get in those 64 or more ounces a day. I’m also adding the Starbucks Pink Drink to my list. I’m late to the party, but last week I finally tried the the Pink Drink that’s on Starbucks’ secret menu. Now I understand why it’s been all over my Instagram feed. It’s so delicious! And the a grande will only run you about 130 calories. Bam – take that summer workout! So how do you order: just ask for a Strawberry Acai Refresher but replace the water with coconut milk. Also there is now a Purple Drink and Orange Drink.

Summer Reading List – During the summer I usually make some additions to my set reading list which includes Blonde, Solemn, and Why Not Me and throw in some easy reading titles. So far I’m looking forward to bringing these titles poolside: Here Comes the Sun , Love & Gelato, and Eligible: A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice – though I’m hearing mixed reviews on this one.

What are some of your summer staples. Leave a comment below!