Signs of summer are officially upon us as the weather gets warmer, the days grow longer, and our calendars begin filling up with vacations, weekend plans, and outdoor adventures. When we think of the summer season, a few beauty buzzwords immediately come to mind: glowing, dewy, radiant, bronzed, and of course, SPF. It’s the time of year when we naturally gravitate toward effortless beauty routines that help us look refreshed while keeping our skin healthy and protected. 

Whether you’re spending your days poolside, exploring a new destination, attending summer events, or simply soaking up the sunshine close to home, feeling your best starts with taking care of your skin. The right beauty essentials can help you achieve that coveted summer glow while keeping you comfortable and confident through the heat, humidity, and long days ahead. 

We’ve put together a list of our summer beauty favorites that keep us glowing and going all season long. From skincare staples and hydrating must-haves to products that deliver that radiant, sun-kissed finish, these are the essentials we’re reaching for all summer. 

La Roche Posay – Anthelios Ultra-Light Fluid Face Sunscreen 

Photo via Target

First and foremost–sun protection. Whether you’re at home, poolside, or abroad, the summer sun is intense and your skin definitely needs protection. This SPF helps to protect against free radicals and environmental damage while reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term sun damage. Suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin as it helps prevent breakouts. 

CeraVe – Moisturizing Cream

Photo via Target

A moisturizer that can be applied to both the face and body and works well for sensitive and dry skin. The formula is non-comedogenic, making it safe for acne-prone skin without clogging pores. This cream contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides that help restore and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier. An absolute must-have that the entire household can use. 

Saie – Glowy Super Gel Lightweight Dewy Multipurpose Illuminator 

Photo via Sephora

This multipurpose and multi-use highlighter is a cult favorite for a reason. It gives a natural and glazed glow that can be worn alone or mixed with foundation for the ultimate dewy look. The formula is made with ingredients like vitamin C and glycerin that are great for the skin and help keep you hydrated and glowing all day long. 

Summer Fridays – Sheer Skin Tint 

Photo via Sephora

A sheer skin tint formulated with hyaluronic acid and squalane that provides light coverage and a natural-looking finish. For the summer days where you want to add a little extra to your everyday makeup without feeling over the top. This lightweight skin tint adds a touch of color while keeping your skin hydrated. You definitely can’t go wrong with this product. 

Lux Unfiltered – Summer Skin Hydrating Gradual Self-Tanning Body Cream

Photo via Sephora

This gradual self-tanning lotion is packed with skin-loving ingredients and will provide you with a natural looking tan that makes it seem like you’ve spent countless days relaxing poolside. With an earthy, Santal scent, this lotion is made with shea butter to keep skin moisturized and avocado oil to maintain hydration. This lotion will have you looking bronzed, radiant, and summer ready! 

PATRICK TA – Major Glow Balm 

Photo via Sephora

An illuminating face and body balm that gives you a glossy looking glow and leaves skin looking and feeling radiant. Formulated with jojoba seed oil and shea butter, this balm moisturizes, hydrates, and softens the skin while protecting it and providing a natural, radiant glow. You might want to purchase the applicator brush for easy on-the-go application. 

EADEM – Le Chouchou Exfoliating + Softening Peptide Lip Balm 

Photo via Sephora

The Guava Fresca shade quickly became a cult favorite and is highly sought after for a very good reason. This lip balm smoothes the lips, reduces lip wrinkles and locks in moisture while maintaining a glossy finish. A great product all around that we cannot go without lately. 

There you have it, a list of a few of our summer beauty essentials that are going to keep us glowing and going all season long. Happy summer season!