I’m not usually big on makeup, but when summer rolls around and my sun-kissed skin gets a few freckles, I find myself reaching for that highlighter to accentuate my cheekbones or a vibrant lip colour for a playful twist. Subtlety is key for me, and I’m aiming for a very natural looking makeup with this summer glow-up. A no-makeup makeup look if you will.
These days, beauty brands are nailing it with makeup-meets-SPF formulas, which I love because it integrates makeup into my summer beauty routine more easily. I recently stumbled upon Naked Sundays, an Australian beauty brand, and I’ve fallen in love with some of their products that blend sun protection (chemical not mineral, which is the only downside) with warm, radiant tones.
My summer makeup routine is quite minimalist. It’s all about lightweight, waterproof formulas that keep my skin looking fresh and matte in all the right places. Below, I’ve rounded up the products I’m packing for my European summer holidays, with a few details on why I think they’re great for this season.
1 – Sunset blush
Huda Beauty, Blush Filter Watermelon Pop
I wear blush almost every day, usually keeping it subtle. But in summer, when my skin gets that lovely tan, I love to amp it up and really make it pop. Sometimes, just blush and an eyebrow pencil are all I need to feel put together without going overboard. My latest obsession is this Huda Beauty blush. The watermelon colour is deep and gorgeous, and its creamy texture is very easy to apply with a little brush for an halo effect. A little goes a long way!
2 – Lightweight SPF50 tinted serum
Naked Sundays, CabanaGlow™ SPF50 Illuminating & Bronze Duo
I don’t wear foundation on a daily basis, and in summer, even less so. I’ve never found one that stays put, and buying a whole new tube in a darker shade for a tan that will last a few months? Sounds pretty wasteful. That’s where SPF tinted serum comes in. CabanaGlow Illuminating Serum Drops is completely sheer but leaves a very subtle hint of glitter on the skin. I apply it in touches rather than on the whole face. CabanaGlow Bronze Serum Drops is quite pigmented and similar to a tinted moisturiser or lightweight foundation. It’s also quite a buildable product, so you don’t need to apply a ton to see the smoothing effect on your complexion.
3 – Waterproof eye-liner
Make Up For Ever, Aqua Seal – Waterproof Liquid Converter
This is a new find, and I love how it makes my makeup palettes work harder for me. This clear gel formula transforms any powder—be it eyeshadow, blush, or bronzer—into an eyeliner-like formula, a liquid that dries quickly and stays put for hours. You can also dab it directly on areas where you want to set your makeup, but it’s better to use the back of your hand or a palette. Rated 100/100 on the Yuka app, it’s safe to use close to the eyes. It’s perfect for creating multiple looks with one product, and a little goes a long way.
4 – Bright lipstick
Eco Tan, Lipstick Sheer – Kirra Pink 03
I’m not typically one to wear bright lipstick on a daily basis, but in summer, why not? Eco Tan, known for their impressive sustainable beauty products in Australia, caught my eye recently, and this is my first purchase from them. I was torn between the bold red and this more muted pink but ultimately chose the pink. It’s the perfect touch of colour for me, striking just the right balance.
5 – SPF 50 Lip Balm
Naked Sundays, Golden Hour SPF Lip + Balm Duo
This is an absolute must-have for me since I have sun spots on my bottom lip that need protection from the sun. I always carry around a few different SPF50 lip balms in various bags and pockets during summertime. This SPF lip oil is a bit different and belongs to the makeup department with its rich, caramel-coloured formula. It comes with the highlighter balm that I apply on my cheekbones and nose for a hint of radiance, or on my lips under the oil for extra protection. It’s my go-to for keeping my skin and lips safe, while adding that coveted touch of glow.
6 – Highlighting bronzing drops
Pai Skincare, The Impossible Glow Bronzing Drops
This is an absolute staple in my makeup bag and a repeat buy for many years. It’s so easy to apply and gives the nicest shimmer. I usually dab a bit on my cheekbones, nose, and the outer corners under my eyebrows—those spots where you want the light to catch. Sometimes, I mix a few drops with my moisturiser or serum for an all-over glow. It blends really well and never leaves streaks.
7 – Waterproof mascara
tarte, Maneater Waterproof Volumising Mascara
This is a great little product that I keep in my bag all summer. It’s perfect for those moments when I want my lashes to look a bit darker yet smudge-free. While it’s not my go-to for a voluminous look, since the bristle is quite thin, it’s very good at providing definition and a very natural effect.
8 – Eyebrow definer
iT Cosmetics, Brow Power Eyebrow Pencil in Universal Taupe
I never know which colour of eyebrow pencil to buy because judging from online photos is so tricky. My goal is always “as invisible as possible.” Enter this Universal Taupe pencil – halfway between dark brown and dark grey. It fits my eyebrow shade almost perfectly, and usually no one can tell I have it on. The before and after is truly impressive in my opinion. It’s perfect for adding definition and depth to my eyebrows without looking unnatural.
9 – Mattifying powder
E.l.f, Perfect Finish HD Powder
This classic gem is a lifesaver for keeping shine at bay. It’s a translucent, colourless powder that absorbs oil and keeps your skin looking velvety smooth. What I love most about this one in particular is its tiny price tag (under $10) and how long it lasts. It might not be the sexiest product in my makeup bag, but it’s definitely one of the most useful in summer.
