Every month when I sit down to write this column, I think of reasons why that specific time of year is so amazing for beauty junkies. From finding red-hot lipstick shades for holiday parties, to picking out pastel nail polish shades for spring, there really is something I look forward to with each passing season of the year, especially when it comes to beauty products. But there’s something special to be said about summer. Maybe it’s the touch of sun-kissed skin, the natural highlights in my hair after a few days on the beach, or the fact that I can get away with Barbie pink lipstick for three months out of the year. In the spirit of my (maybe) favorite season, I’ve compiled a list of my go-to summer essentials—a Summer Beauty Survival Kit, if you will. In the meantime, enjoy the sun, wherever you may be. Stay fabulous, always. XO, Elizabeth
Ocean Potion Sunscreen
Need a sunscreen that goes above and beyond and smells amazing? Ocean Potion Sunscreen (Walmart, $6.67) has been my absolute favorite sunscreen for years. Their flawless formula includes sea plant botanicals, antioxidants, and tons of Vitamin D3 to keep your skin looking youthful and rejuvenated as you soak up the summer rays. Ocean Potion also features a non-greasy formula and Vitamin E to fight off free radicals, making it the perfect addition to your beach bag essentials.
Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls
I used to hate what the summer humidity did to my already frizzy hair, until I found Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls (Target, $22). This styling lotion promises frizz-free, soft and bouncy waves, without the crunchy curls we all try to avoid during the summer months. I love the soft hold of Miss Jessie’s and the fact that it works wonders both ways: air dry or with a diffuser.
STILA Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
There’s nothing better than waterproof mascara, except for waterproof liquid eyeliner. I recently started using it this past spring when my watery, allergy-ridden eyes were messing up my eyeliner on a daily basis. STILA’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner (Sephora, $20) features a thin, marker-like tip that creates a smooth, smudge-free look with quick precision. The best part? The liner comes in fifteen different shades, including playful summer colors like Paradise Pink, Cobalt, Light Turquoise, and Periwinkle Blue.
CND VINYLUX Polish
VINYLUX is the next big thing in manicures, featuring week-long wear (really!), self-adhering color, and only two steps for faster service. Think of it as somewhere in between a regular mani and gel. It’s lighter and more convenient than gel but boasts more staying power than your run-of-the-mill mani. It’s perfect for people like me who like to change their polish color often, but need the durability of a gel manicure. Check out their website at cnd.com and find a CND salon near you!
