I think I can speak for all of us when I say that this summer definitely hasn’t gone according to plan. With travel plans, romantic entanglements, and social lives mostly on pause for the foreseeable future, it can be hard to feel like you have control of anything. But amid this miserable roller coaster of a year, one small thing we can stay on top of is our skin care. Instead of focusing on how lame this summer is compared to years past, put that time and energy into getting your summer skin care routine on lock.
If you don’t normally put much thought into your skin care regimen, switching up your products every season might seem extra, but it makes a lot of sense. While you might spend the winter fighting dry skin with heavy creams and moisturizers, summer is a whole different ballgame. Of course, each person’s skin care needs differ based on location, climate, and skin type, but generally speaking, summer skin care is all about keeping it light and breezy. Here are some must-have products that will keep you glowing (not from sweat) all summer long.
Laneige Cream Skin Mist
If you know about Laneige’s Cream Skin line, you KNOW how exciting this launch is. I admittedly was never a huge mist person until my friends coerced me into keeping a spray in my bag at all times, and now I’m actually unsure how I survived without one. The Cream Skin Mist is great because it gives your skin a natural glow, with or without makeup. A product like this is particularly important in summer, especially during quarantine, when the chances of me wearing makeup are about the same as the odds of me shaving my legs in the winter. This final step makes any routine feel complete, and the mist itself is super hydrating, long lasting, and perfect to bring on the go. The formula is lightweight, and enriched with amino acids from White Leaf Tea water.
Caudalíe Pink Limited Edition Beauty Elixir
If you’re looking for a clean, natural mist, look no further. When I heard the Limited Edition of the cult-favorite Beauty Elixir is back in stock, I had ~a moment~. There is something about this pretty pink bottle that makes this already great product even better. If you can’t relate to my passion for packaging, that’s fine. This product is filled with natural plant extracts that help visibly smooth the skin and tighten the pores. As someone with pores the size of planet Earth itself, this is quite important to me. This product preps and sets makeup, which is extra important in the summer months, because as you can imagine, sweat + makeup = a dangerous combo.
Kiehl’s Calendula Serum-Infused Water Cream
I once won a giveaway for a year’s supply of Kiehl’s, and have since considered myself an expert on each and every one of their products. In winter months, my skin literally feels like sandpaper, so a heavy moisturizer is a MUST. But come summer, the Calendula Serum-Infused Water Cream is my number one. I’ll be honest, this little guy is on the pricier side. That being said, if you know me (or if you’ve read any of my articles) you know I am cheap AF and that me splurging on a product means it is the real deal. The water cream claims to boost radiance (I see this claim from all brands, IDK what it actually means, but I do know that my skin is dewier using this product), reduces redness (can confirm this is true) and helps improve dry skin by softening and hydrating (also can confirm this is true). This is the kind of product that makes me want to skip foundation because my skin is actually glowing, and despite being ultra-hydrating, it’s lightweight and breathable. As I reread this *passionate* rant, I hope Kiehl’s sponsors me. My DMs are open.
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench® Cloud Cream Hydrating Moisturizer
I’ve got to say, this name is very overwhelming to type, but this Hyaluronic Cloud Cream is my other go-to in summer. Even if you’re into skin care at all, you still know hyaluronic acid is ~all~ the buzz right now, and for good reason. It’s hydrating, it’s not heavy, and it’s most definitely summer-approved. I love using this moisturizer after a beach day, because it’s cooling to the skin and helps calm any burning or peeling I may have obtained. It’s lightweight, super moisturizing, and wears well under makeup. This, like the previous cream, is worth the splurge.
Supergoop! Glowscreen (SPF 40)
If you don’t already know this, SPF is the most important thing in your skin care routine. As someone with textured skin (again, pores the size of planet Earth), I am very picky about my sunscreen. If sunscreen has any sort of white cast, it’s an instant horror show. If the sunscreen doesn’t agree with my skin type, my texture is exaggerated and it’s not a good look. And with that, I find myself reaching for my Supergoop! Glowscreen on the regular. It’s dewy and pearly (great for my dry skin pals) and allows for the true no-makeup makeup look (because you literally don’t need makeup). It’s hydrating, too, which is not always true for sunscreen.
TULA Protect + Glow (Daily Sunscreen Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30)
Something that is not spoken about enough is the fact that SPF should be worn inside. Yes. Groundbreaking, I know. bUt ThE sUn DoEsN’t ShInE iNsIdE! Correct. However, now more than ever, our skin is exposed to harmful blue light. From scrolling for hours, to being glued to our computer screens on work days, and of course binging Netflix, I am excited and impressed to see that TULA has launched Protect + Glow to protect you from damaging pollution and blue light. If you’ve purchased blue light glasses, add this to your list of must-haves. Even if you haven’t, still add this to your list of must-haves.
Peachy Prescription Retinoids
Retinoids are the industry’s best kept secret if you ask me. Summer is fun, but sun exposure leads to skin damage and wrinkles, and I for one want neither of those. I never knew (or cared) what Retinoids were until I was introduced to a local NYC business, Peachy (support local!). Retinoids are the prescription version of Retinol—and clinical studies show that they both increase collagen production and prevent collagen degradation. Increasing collagen results in plumper, stronger skin and the minimization of fine lines and wrinkles. So, in less science-y words, Retinoids are the botox of skin care (without the needles). It’s important that you get the right prescription from a trusted dermatologist and still take care of your skin in the sun (USE SPF), but this product is my secret weapon.
Kosas Tinted Face Oil
“Foundation, but make it skincare” are the first words that can be read under Kosas’ Tinted Face Oil description, and it sums this product up flawlessly. During summer months, a cakey foundation is awful, to put it simply, and this has been my personal solution. The product does a great job of giving your skin the “blur effect” but doesn’t overdo it. Think “is she wearing makeup or does she just have amazing skin???” type vibes. Overall as a brand, Kosas has multiple products that dabble in both the skin care + makeup category, but this stands out above the rest for me.
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
Summer Fridays is one of those brands that is actually worth the hype. Their products are great, their branding is great, their social media is great, their packaging is great, even their p-page images are great (few will understand, but those who do will appreciate this callout). Anyway, during summer months I often love replacing my lipstick with a clear balm and letting my lips go natural-ish. This Lip Butter Balm is actually considered a mask, and it’s created to soothe parched lips while sealing in moisture. I’m a big fan of this product because it’s not like other lip balms that feel amazing for the first 10 minutes and then leave your lips needing more soon after. This lasts what feels like hours, and it makes my lips look glowy like a gloss, but without the sticky feeling.
YSL Beauty Rouge Volupte Shine Oil-in-Stick
If you prefer a little color in your summer lip look, an oil lip color is a great way to go. YSL Beauty launched their new Milk Tea collection (I’m fittingly sipping on milk tea as I write this) and the colors are reaaalllyyy pretty. I feel like we’re all on the permanent hunt for the “perfect nude” and this just might be it. The hydrating formula drenches lips in moisture while leaving a high-shine finish. Think lipstick-meets-balm. All day color and comfort? Yes please.
SheaMoisture African Black Soap
Summer brings an excess of oil and enlarged pores (sorry, I know you’re sick of hearing about my pores). SheaMoisture African Black Soap is THAT product that will help you maintain your natural glow while conquering oil and sweat (we all have it, so don’t pretend you’re better than me). More importantly, the soap won’t dehydrate your skin, which for obvious reasons is important here. This face and body bar is super affordable ($4.99) and is specially formulated with organic Shea Butter, Oats and Aloe to cleanse, moisturize and comfort irritated skin.
Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Body Scrub
LAST BUT NOT LEAST. I used to think body scrubs were a myth, but then I tried one and realized it wasn’t. Thrilling, I know. I’m a big fan of Sol de Janeiro’s OG Bum Bum Cream because it smells like vacation—even after being trapped inside for 100 days. The Bum Bum Body Scrub texture is soft yet gritty, and literally leaves my skin glowing. I think it’s important to be careful with body scrubs, because while you do want to exfoliate the skin, you don’t want the product to be abrasive. I think that BBBS (I’ve made up this abbreviation because Bum Bum Body Scrub is a mouthful) is the perfect happy medium, and the scent alone is enough to keep me coming back for more. WOULD recommend for *summer smooth* skin.
And there you have it, summer skin care, head to toe. Check back in winter for my 100-step routine.
Images: Margot Pandone / Unsplash; Provided by Laneige; Caudalie; Kiehls; Peter Thomas Roth; Supergoop; TULA; Provided by Peachy; Provided by Kosas; Summer Fridays; Provided by YSL Beauty; Provided by SheaMoisture; Provided by Sol de Janeiro
Betches may receive a portion of revenue if you click a link and purchase a product or service. The links are independently placed and do not influence editorial content.
In addition to reading books on racism, listening to podcasts on the history of white supremacy, following Black activists and educators, and holding those close to us accountable, one of the ways we can support Black people right now is by buying from Black-owned businesses. I’ve chosen 20 (of the many) incredible Black-owned beauty brands to purchase from that create amazing products for people of all skin tones. Your next makeup haul might just be sooner than you think.
1. Beauty Bakerie
If you haven’t heard of Beauty Bakerie, you’re missing out. This fun, creative brand has a food theme, and all products are vegan and cruelty-free. Founded by Cashmere Nicole, this brand is built off of strength. A young mom, breast cancer survivor, and entrepreneur, Nicole is your modern day superwoman. Personally, I’m a big fan of the Flour Setting Powder. The packaging is cute AF, and the product works wonders for setting your face and keeping it in place all day.
2. Juvia’s Place
I personally was introduced to Juvia’s Place from YouTube tutorials, and was instantly blown away by the colors in their eyeshadow palettes. It was created by Chichi Eburu to pay homage to the birthplace of beauty, Africa, and celebrate the rulers and queens whose techniques are still used today in makeup. It’s no surprise that Juvia’s Place is famous for their rich and vibrant palettes, perfect for any occasion. Patchy shadows are the enemy, but despite the bright colors, Juvia’s Place has you covered for a smooth, flawless application.
3. Mented Cosmetics
Mented Cosmetics was founded with one goal in mind: find the perfect nude lip. Founders KJ Miller and Amanda E. Johnson came up with the idea over a glass of pinot (iconic), and have since produced makeup that actually works for women of every skin tone. That being said, the must-have product here is of course, the semi-matte nude lipsticks, which come in nine shades.
4. Fenty Beauty
Fenty Beauty needs no introduction, created by living icon Rihanna. I feel like I could write a short essay here about how every single thing Rihanna touches turns to gold, but if you don’t already know that by now, I can’t help you. Fenty Beauty made waves when they launched with 40 foundation shades, setting the new standard for the makeup industry (which was, quite honestly, long overdue) and encouraged brands to be more inclusive. My personal favorite is the Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, and given the 3,300 five-star reviews, I’d say I’m not alone.
5. Coloured Raine
Coloured Raine was founded with the promise of a line that encouraged self-expression and diversity, and included shades specifically made for people of color. Founder Loraine R. Dowdy left the financial industry to pursue her passion, and as beauty lovers know, it sure paid off. Whether you like to go bold and or subtle, the eyeshadow singles are must-haves, giving you the option to build your own color story without having to purchase a full-sized palette.
6. Pat McGrath
Pat McGrath’s namesake brand is one of the most famous in the industry, with good reason. She’s been said to be the most influential makeup artist in the world, and her products follow suit. If you haven’t tried a Pat McGrath lipstick, you ARE missing out. I can say with confidence I’ve never had a lipstick work as well as the MatteTrance™ line, and as someone who probably owns 200+ lipsticks, that is saying a lot. It operates almost like a liquid lip, in the sense that it allows for all day wear and no budging, but sits on the lip more comfortably, avoiding the dry feeling that liquid lips often cause. If you aren’t sure about color, the Mini Lipstick Trios give you the chance to test out the brand and retail for only $25.
7. Range Beauty
Range Beauty is “clean beauty for the forgotten shades” and right off the bat I can tell you that this message is simple yet powerful. The beauty industry has come a long way, but we still see a lack of makeup for people of color, and founder Alicia Scott decided to take matters into her own hands. From the “fairest of fair to the deepest of deep”, Range Beauty is known for their foundations, formulated with sensitive skin in mind. While makeup so often causes more irritation, these foundations have antibacterial properties to treat and prevent eczema and acne, control oil, soothe the skin, and prevent clogged pores. Consider this your skin care-friendly must-have foundation.
8. Nyakio™ Beauty
Nyakio Beauty is a clean and green skin care line, allowing you to never question your ingredients. Founded by Nyakio Grieco, who started her skin care business using lessons from her Kenyan family, Nyakio Beauty is best known for their Sweet Almond Cleansing Balm, which literally melts away all your troubles (and dirt, and impurities, and all of the other gross things that linger on our skin). The balm-to-oil texture feels like a spa experience in the comfort of your home.
9. Base Butter
I can’t even explain why, but something about the word “butter” in products and brand names gets me every time. Lip butter, face butter, body butter? Give me all the butter. I love seeing women come together to succeed, and that is exactly what Base Butter founders She’Neil Johnson and Nicolette Graves have done. With the mission to help women feel more comfortable in their skin (and literally make their skin feel more comfortable), Base Butter has products like the Aloe vera Face Jelly that revitalize and rejuvenate your skin. A healthy balance of aloe to protect the skin, evening primrose to boost elasticity, and lavender and tee tree to calm and disinfect, this moisturizer is one that keeps me coming back for more.
10. Epara Skincare
Luxury skin care that uses African botanicals? Yes please. Founded by Ozohu Adoh, Epara Skincare is a “brand born out of a need to provide luxury skin care products to women with dark skin tones.” Adoh, who received her MBA from Oxford University, made the decision to develop her own products after seeing a lack of products that could treat her own skin concerns. The Intense Hydrating Mask in particular is nourishing and creamy; the mask softens, cleanses and purifies the skin, leaving it hydrated, bright, and even in tone.
11. Hyper Skin
Goodbye dark spots, hello Hyper Skin! Founder Desiree Verdejo conceptualized Hyper Skin after dealing with aggressive breakouts during pregnancy. The brand launched with the popular Hyper Clean Vitamin C Serum, working to smooth fine lines and rough texture, and dramatically clear dark spots from hyper-pigmentation.
12. skin BUTTR
Hello I’m back for more butter brands. skin BUTTR, founded by my ANTM idol Tatiana Elizabeth Price (!!!), is made of natural body and skin care products. The body line consists of whipped shea-based body butters and scrubs, and the skincare line is an all-natural, step-by-step hydrating system. The scrubs and body butters are equally amazing, but if you’re stuck inside and dry at the moment, the Cocoa Vanilla will hydrate your life and leave your skin glowing. You’ll also smell delicious. You’re welcome in advance.
13. Kaike
You had me at marshmallow. Kaike (pronounced like cake!) was founded by Keli Smith with a belief in celebrating your skin. Kaike is plant-based and made up of multi-purpose products for a more practical skin care routine. With yummy products like Frosting, you can moisturize your body and hair simultaneously. Plus, it literally smells like frosting, so you’ll smell amazing.
14. The Honey Pot Company
Designed for ~ down there ~, The Honey Pot Company is plant-based feminine care. They are the first complete feminine care system powered by herbs, and for that, we are thankful. The Honey Pot Company was founded by Bea Dixon, who is open with the fact that she made her own line simply because she was suffering and couldn’t find vaginal relief. The line varies from organic tampons to feminine wipes.
15. Briogeo
Briogeo. Where do I even begin? I so genuinely love this brand. Literally every single product is great, and my bathroom cabinets are flooding with favorites from the line. Founded by Nancy Twine, who casually formulated her first product at age five (yes, literally), Briogeo is my favorite clean hair brand on the market. It’s actually hard for me to select a favorite product (I’m being dramatic, but idc), but having naturally curly hair, I always opt for the Curl Charisma line, which helps tame my lion’s mane every morning.
16. GIRL+HAIR
GIRL+HAIR is dermatologist-designed, founded by Dr. Camille H-Verovic. Targeting growth, itch relief, and odor relief, this line was designed for the hair and scalp. You’ll absolutely want to get your hands on their newest product, Curl Cloud, a hydrating pimento and castor oil hair mask. Heavenly.
17. TGIN
If you haven’t noticed yet, I am a sucker for brand names, and TGIN may be in first place: Thank God It’s Natural. As someone who generally tries to keep my products clean, this name tells me off the bat we are good to go—love that. On top of running a successful business, founder Chris-Tia Donaldson is a successful author. Her book Thank God I’m Natural: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Natural Hair is a #1 Amazon bestseller—yes, big deal! TGIN has a full rose water line that includes leave-in conditioners, hair masks, and styling products, all to enhance your hair’s natural beauty.
18. Miss Jessie’s
Miss Jessie’s was founded by sisters Miko and Titi Branch who wanted to give curly haired women a reason to look forward to trying new products. Too often, brands miss the mark when advertising the “perfect” hair, showing straight, thick, shiny hair that’s not the most inclusive. The line was inspired by their grandmother, Miss Jessie Mae Branch. When they were children, Miss Jessie would create all sorts of formulas at her kitchen table to help tame and style her granddaughter’s beautiful curly hair. Some winners include the Curly Buttercreme (which hydrates hair) and Curly Pudding (which relaxes natural curls).
19. SheaMoisture
Sheamoisture was founded on the belief that the best in personal care and beauty should not belong to the few, and their accessibility comes compromise-free. Built off the legacy of his grandmother, Sofi Tucker, Richelieu Dennis has created a line of natural, sustainably produced products. Their creamy, dreamy leave-in conditioner provides relief, and is a must for anyone who regularly destroys their hair with heat and color.
20. Camille Rose
And for the grand finale, Camille Rose. Founded by Janell Stephens, who has been an iconic trendsetter within the beauty space, Camille Rose was too built on the foundation of inclusivity. Their “about me” section reads: “We seek to share the purest and warmest joy, happiness, trust and gratitude to each and every person who experiences our products,” and if that doesn’t make you a customer, IDK what will. With products to cleanse, define, and bring life to your hair, Camille Rose embraces the natural gift of curls. I recommend the Aloe Whipped Butter Gel (butter again!), crafted to provide moisture and light styling hold.
These 20 lines are in good company with 100s of other Black-owned brands, and I encourage you to purchase, support, and comment more brands below! Check out this Instagram post that highlights Black-owned brands that are also cruelty-free.
View this post on Instagram
support black owned businesses, cruelty free edition 🌱 #supportblackbusinesses
Images: SofikoSShutterstock; Beauty Bakerie, Juvia’s Place, Mented Cosmetics, Fenty Beauty, Coloured Raine, Pat McGrath, Range Beauty, Nyakio Beauty, Base Butter, Epara Skincare, Hyper Skin, skin BUTTR, Kaike, The Honey Pot Company, Briogeo, GIRL+HAIR, TGIN, Miss Jessie’s, SheaMoisture, Camille Rose / Instagram
