Stock Up on Must Have Summer Beauty Essentials
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Summer is officially here, which means one thing: it’s time to break out the shorts and sandals. But before you do, there are a few summer beauty essentials you’re going to need to stock up on. The sun is amazing, but you’ll want to take precautions to protect your hair, skin, and eyes – while still enjoying all the amazing things summer has to offer! To help you get ready for summer, I’ve put together a summer beauty essentials checklist so you can stock up.

What are Summer Beauty Essentials?
Summer beauty essentials are your ride-or-die products for looking and feeling your best under the sun. These go beyond just makeup – they’re a curated selection designed to complement the season, not fight against it. Think lightweight, breathable formulas that won’t clog pores under the summer heat, and long-lasting products that can withstand poolside dips or city adventures. This all-star cast includes SPF for ultimate protection, hydrating skincare to combat sun and sweat, and a touch of self-tanner for a natural, sun-kissed glow. With summer beauty essentials in your arsenal, you’ll be ready to embrace the sunshine and radiate confidence all season long!
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your ultimate summer beauty essential, the foundation for a healthy, glowing complexion that lasts long after the tan fades. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for everyday wear, and don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Not only will you avoid sunburn and premature aging, but you’ll also keep your skin looking even-toned and radiant throughout the summer. So ditch the fear of missing out on a tan, and embrace the confidence that comes with knowing your skin is protected and healthy!
DIME Beauty Tinted Glow Wonderscreen is my favorite sunscreen for my face. It is mineral-based and blends in easily and is a great base. You can save with my code DEVINEFAIRYTALE. If I need extra coverage, my go-to is it Cosmetics CC+ Cream.
Self Tanning Lotion
Self-tanning lotion is a summer beauty essential that lets you achieve a bronzed look without the harmful rays. Gone are the days of streaky, orange tans – today’s formulas offer natural-looking color that develops gradually. Whether you’re looking for a subtle sun-kissed touch or a deeper beach babe glow, there’s a self-tanner out there for you. Ditch the tanning bed and embrace the safe, summer-ready alternative! Just make sure to exfoliate your skin before applying the lotion to avoid any streaks or uneven patches.
Pink Lily Luxury Tan Glow Drops are great to add to your own moisturizers to help create a natural-looking tan.
Moisturizer
Summer might scream “lightweight” for your clothes, but your skin still craves hydration. Here’s the secret: swap your heavy winter cream for a summer-friendly moisturizer. Think oil-free moisturizers that sink right in, leaving you feeling refreshed and not greasy. This lightweight hero will keep your skin plump and supple, even as you battle the drying effects of sun and air conditioning. Plus, a well-hydrated canvas is essential for flawless makeup application (if you choose to wear it) and allows other skincare products to work their magic more effectively.
Bronzer
Summer is all about that sun-kissed look, and a good bronzer is your key to achieving it without a single ray of sun. Unlike foundation, which can sometimes feel heavy and cakey in the summer heat, bronzer adds warmth and dimension to your face for a natural, healthy glow. Want to fake those beach vacation vibes? Sweep a bronzer along your cheekbones, temples, and forehead for a sculpted look. Feeling fancy? Bronzer can also be used to create a subtle contour, defining your jawline and highlighting your features. The best part? Bronzer comes in a variety of shades and finishes, so you can find the perfect one to suit your skin tone and desired level of glow.
Tinted Lip Balm
Keep your lips hydrated and protected with a tinted lip balm. It keeps your pout hydrated and protected with a hint of color. Whether you prefer a sheer wash that enhances your natural tone or a bolder pop for a statement lip, there’s a shade for everyone. Most importantly, look for SPF 30 or higher to shield your lips from the sun’s rays. Choose a finish (matte or glossy) that suits your style, and pick one packed with hydrating ingredients for long-lasting softness.
Hair Protectant
Sun-kissed hair is a summer dream, but those long, lazy days at the beach can leave your locks feeling anything but glamorous. That’s where hair protectant steps in as your summer beauty essential. It’s not just about preventing split ends – hair protectant acts like a shield, deflecting the damaging effects of UV rays, chlorine, and saltwater. Imagine a weightless spray or leave-in conditioner that shields your hair’s color, keeps strands hydrated, and even adds a touch of manageability. With this summer hero in your beach bag, you can say goodbye to straw-like texture and hello to healthy, touchable hair that shines as bright as the summer sun.
If you’ll be in the pool quite a bit, AquaGuard is a must to help protect your hair from all of the chlorine that can cause damage.
I also recommend using a heat protectant if you plan on using any heated styling tools at any time of the year.
The Beachwaver rotating iron is perfect for easily creating beachy, summer waves. You can save on your order with my code SHANNONDWAVE.
Sun Recovery Products
Sun recovery products are a summer beauty essential you might not have considered. These heroes come to the rescue soothing sun-kissed skin and helping your skin bounce back. Think cooling after-sun gels for instant relief, deeply hydrating face masks to replenish lost moisture, and calming aloe vera products to reduce redness. Sun recovery isn’t just about damage control – it’s about promoting healthy, radiant skin all summer long. So, next time you pack your beach bag, don’t forget to toss in some sun recovery products – your skin will thank you!
Deep Cleansing Face Wash
While you’re soaking up the sunshine and enjoying those refreshing swims, your skin is working overtime. Sweat, sunscreen, and even leftover beach sand can clog your pores and lead to pesky blemishes. That’s where a deep cleansing face wash swoops in as your summer beauty savior. Unlike your regular cleanser, a deep cleansing wash removes all that built-up gunk without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Look for a face wash that contains salicylic acid or glycolic acid to help fight blemishes. The result? A clean, refreshed feeling and a clearer, smoother complexion that’s ready to rock a summer glow – without unwanted breakouts stealing the show!
Heading to the beach this summer? Check out these tips for planning the perfect beach vacation.
Bonus Beauty Tips for Summer
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy skin and hair. Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day.
- Exfoliate Your Lips: Summer sun and heat can leave your lips dry and chapped. Regularly exfoliate your lips with a lip scrub to keep them smooth and soft.
- Don’t Forget Your Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays with a pair of stylish sunglasses. Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection.
- Wear a Hat: When spending extended periods of time outdoors wear a hat to protect your face and your scalp from extended sun exposure.
- Embrace the Glow: Summer is all about embracing a natural, dewy look. Skip the heavy makeup and let your natural beauty shine through.
With these summer beauty essentials in your arsenal, you’re armed and ready to conquer the season! You’ll be able to confidently embrace the sunshine, knowing your skin is protected, your hair is manageable, and your makeup stays put. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a new lip color, embrace your natural beauty with minimal makeup, or rock a beachy wave hairstyle. Most importantly, have fun, soak up the sunshine, and let your inner glow shine through all summer long!


