Our Top 5 Summer Beauty Essentials
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When the forecast reads “hot, humid, repeat,” our contributing editors at Uncommon and Curated pare things down to products that punch above their weight. After swatching, sampling, and sweat-testing, we’ve landed on a tight list of summer ride-or-dies: the swipe-and-go ILIA Multi‑Stick that fakes a sun-kissed flush in seconds, the sheer-but-shielding DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer that doubles as a light foundation, and the viral waterproof lip stain in “Whimsical,” a tint that outlasts iced-latte marathons. Each formula stays put, feels feather-light, and leaves just the right amount of glow, proof that a high-heat routine can be both effortless and elevated.
Editor Picks
This Season’s Standout
Wonderskin All-Day Lipstain
EDITOR’S NOTE
You’ve probably seen this lip stain all over social media, and needless to say, I was influenced. The Wonderskin lip stain is perfect for summer due to its waterproof finish and all-day staying power.
I love the natural hue of the color “Whimsical” paired with the lip liner and gloss. I recommend trying the bundle deal to find your ideal color. I also own “Charming” and “XOXO,” but “Whimsical” looks the best with my skin tone for everyday wear.
It’s worth noting that prep matters. If I use a lip scrub and a nighttime lip mask, the color applies the next morning smoothly. When I skip that step, and my lips are dry, the stain doesn’t finish as nicely.
Summer Beauty Lineup
The Ordinary SPF 45 Sunscreen
EDITOR’S NOTE
I love how easily this sunscreen absorbs without leaving a white cast. It provides nice hydration and a subtle glow for a dewy finish. I’ve tried more expensive sunscreens that felt too thick on my skin for daily wear. You can’t beat the price of this sunscreen for your daily routine.
Thrive Causemetics Tubing Mascara
EDITOR’S NOTE
This tubing mascara is water-resistant but comes off easily with warm water during your nighttime routine. I love how smudge-proof this mascara is, especially on hot summer days. It’s also buildable. You can apply a minimal coat for a low-key natural lash, or apply an extra layer for a more dramatic look.
DRMTLGY Tinted Moisturizer
EDITOR’S NOTE
I’ve swapped my usual base for this tinted moisturizer this summer. The lightweight cream sinks in fast and leaves a sheer, dewy veil that softens redness without ever feeling heavy or cakey. It’s become my go-to one-step glow with SPF protection, which is exactly what I need for easy, low-maintenance summer coverage.
ILIA Multi-Stick
EDITOR’S NOTE
I’m too lazy for a full face in summer heat, so the ILIA Multi-Stick is my quick fix. It swipes on smooth, blends easily, and doesn’t settle into fine lines. It’s literally a two-second “pat and go.” I hit my cheeks and lips with the shade “Mauve Rose,” then dab the extra on my lids so everything is highlighted without any brushes.
Behind The Edit
Our contributing editors are constantly testing the latest beauty products to bring you the best of the best. This seasonal roundup features only our top picks, the products that have earned a permanent spot in our daily routines. From innovative skincare products to makeup must-haves, these favorites are the ones we can’t stop raving about.
