We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
1. Glossier's Cloud Paint for perfectly glowy, flushed cheeks you'll wanna show off everywhere, from the BBQ to the boardwalk 🥰. The creamy formula blends seamlessly and starts off sheer for a more natural look — though you can always build if you want those cheeks to pop!
Promising review: "Amazing product. Lightweight and a little goes a long way. Cloud paint and a little lip gloss and you are all set for the day." —Shauna
Promising review: "I almost never write reviews for products, so this blush is even more spectacular. I have the shade Dusk, and I use it as a bronzey blush. I am also a hostess for a very large indoor/outdoor restaurant working mostly outside in 90-degree, humid Florida weather. I sweat almost all face makeup off. Until I tried this blush. After a long, strenuous shift, it was still visible and looked really pretty. The color is lovely, and it blends very well, but the staying power is incredible. Can't wait to try more shades!" —Rcromartie
Get it from Glossier for $18 (available in eight shades).
2. Or, Youthforia's BYO Blush, a light oil that changes color by reacting to your skin's pH level to give you a positively dewy, all-day hue that's totally unique to you. And not only that, it's packed with antioxidants to help hydrate. Cakey skin? I don't know her.
It's also 100% fragrance- and cruelty-free!
Youthforia was founded by Fiona Co Chan with the goal of creating makeup that is also good for your skin — "so good you could sleep in it."
Promising review: "Best summer blush. My two favorite things about this blush are its versatility and its longevity. It always makes me look naturally flushed from being in the sun, even if I've been inside all day 🤭 I like that it looks different on me and my sister, even though we have similar skin tones! And since it's an oil, it's great for wearing to work (I work in food service) since I don't have to worry about it transferring onto my mask or fading before the end of my shift. Love this!!" —Sahrang H.
Promising review: "First of all, it's everything. E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G. This is extremely compatible with the glass skin look: It's super dewy but has massive staying power. I put this on at 4 p.m., I woke up at 6 a.m., and it's still on! I originally planned to only wear this on no makeup days as I was worried that, as an oil product, it may lift my makeup underneath. I can say now with confidence it doesn't mess with my base at all. It doesn't feel heavy, is easy to blend, and makes my skin look plump. I've been complimented on my skin, rather than my makeup, with this product on. I generally don't believe in hype, but I see why someone would be excited about this product — there's simply nothing like it, and it does a fantastic job. Looking forward to Youthforia future products!" —Lalita
Get it from Amazon or Youthforia for $36.
3. A tube of Neutrogena lip gloss made with soothing cucumber, chamomile, and glycerin, along with a welcome dose of SPF 20. The gel formula has a cooling effect, and adds just a tad of high-shine color.
Promising review: "This is a very good product. It has cooling gel in it so when you put it on, it gets cold and it feels very nice. Great for the summer for a very glossy look. Unlike other lipglosses, it actually tastes good. This is a great product and I HIGHLY recommend! <3" —Manda
Promising review: "I like this gloss because it's lightweight, has a hint of color, and includes SPF! So many of the glosses out there don't include SPF — a must for those of use who are outdoors all the time." —YachtGirl
Get it from Amazon for $5.89+ (available in two shades of pink).
4. Or, a fruity Revlon SPF 20 tinted lip balm that'll keep your puckers moisturized and sun blister-free.
Promising review: "Great lightweight gloss. Definitely a sheer pink finish. Smells and tastes nice. Moisturizing without being sticky or goopy. The color sticks around for a surprisingly long time." —J.L. Knox
Promising review: "I was in the market for an SPF lip balm or lip balm and came across this. After using it for two months, I can fully attest that this product works! The formula is both protective and moisturizing. It has a non-aggressive scent, which I prefer. And it goes a long way! I have used it daily for two months and still have half the tube remaining. A+ rating from me!" —Natasha_Reads
Get it from Amazon for $3.43+ (available in seven colors, as well as a three-pack).
5. And for everyday wear, an intensely hydrating lip balm to keep in your bag at all times this summer. If chapped lips are a regular occurrence for you, this bb's packed with ingredients like grapefruit, ginger, shea butter, avocado oil, vitamin E, and green tea extract to relieve irritation.
It's got SPF 25.
Promising review: "I live in Nevada and I’ve always had trouble with dry lips. I’ve tried literally dozens of lip balms, from all natural to super high end, and none of them worked. Then I found this! This is a life saver — I use it daily and my lips are so soft and supple! It's lightweight and goes on smooth, so it’s perfect by itself or under my lipstick. The black tea and raspberry tastes amazing, and the lemon and shea is ultra moisturizing. It’s definitely worth trying, especially for the price!" —Caylier
Promising review: "This is my go-to lip balm. I have three of them. One in my car, one in my purse, and one on my nightstand. It is the only thing that truly works against dry, cracked lips for me. I also love that it has an SPF of 25, as most lip products don't usually have SPF." —izzyinLA
Get it from Amazon for $8+ (available in six flavors and in three-packs) or Sephora for $8 (available in five flavors).
6. Essence's Lash Princess mascara for immediately lengthier, more voluminous lashes without any pesky falsies or glue. And, lots of reviewers say it lasts throughout the day and never clumps, so it'll probably be the best five bucks you'll ever spend.
Promising review: "Great mascara, feels like there isn't a lot (lightweight) but oh my word, my eyelashes are longer and fuller looking, like fake lashes. I think there are fibers in there or something 😁" —Amy Looper
Promising review: "Great coverage on the first swipe! I have been searching for a good mascara for months and have had no luck I saw this was on sale and had good reviews so figured I’d give it a try. I was really really surprised most mascaras are goopy the first time you try time and end up getting all over I didn’t have an issue with this one which was a pleasant surprise, the brush is fiber and not silicon another pulse for me, first swipe I was shocked, it covered well and made my lashes look thicker and longer, I waited a few seconds and applied one more coat and that was it! No need to keep going back over them, I haven’t tried to remove it yet but I’m very happy with it and I think my search for the perfect mascara might be over!" —Amber Barrie
Get it from Amazon for $4.99.
7. Smashbox's bestselling Photo Finish Primer, since having the perfect blank canvas is just as important as the makeup itself when it comes to the final look. This one in particular has a huge following thanks to its shockingly lightweight texture (super important when you're going to be applying more products on top!), irresistibly velvety feel, and major staying power.
Promising review: "This is the only primer I've found that I really love. It's really smooth and mattifying. It's also very lightweight, and as someone who has really sensitive skin and is prone to breakouts, it has been great!!" —RBretey
Promising review: "I work full time at a bank, and then part time at a bar. I do my makeup every morning at 8 a.m. and of course use this primer first. The nights I work at the bar, I don't get home until at least 11:30 p.m. (and sometimes later, depending on how busy it is). My makeup is STILL perfectly in place every single time! Yesterday I went zip-lining, and I was in direct heat and sunlight (in 85-degree weather) for most of the day. Even after sweating and doing physical activity all day, my makeup was STILL perfect! This is by far the best primer I have ever used. Your makeup will look like it did when you first put it on...until you take it off!" —mjk464s
Get it from Amazon for $39.30 or Sephora for $14+ (available in two sizes).
8. Or, if sun protection is what you're after, a tube of Supergoop!'s Broad Spectrum 40 SPF Sunscreen that'll bring you "sheer" joy. I say "sheer," because that is, in fact, what it is: lightweight, ZERO white cast, no greasy residue. It actually doubles as a primer, so slather some on and apply your makeup over top!
Promising review: "Best SPF product to apply under makeup! Not greasy or white, goes on clear and dries matte. Perfect for summer!" —breemarieee
Promising review: "This product is revolutionary. It is unbelievably lightweight and feels like nothing on the skin. Humans of all skin tones can wear it because it goes on clear. Does not break my sensitive skin out. Does not smell like anything. Acts as a primer and keeps my makeup in place after selling at a farmers market (five hours), pool party, and barbecue (four hours), so nine hours in total — a total game changer for my oily, acne-prone skin. Not even a regular makeup primer does that for me. Plus, I wasn't burnt at all in the Arizona heat. That AND it kept my makeup in place? I'm repurchasing as long as Supergoop! continues to make it." —WendyTan
Get it from Amazon for $27+ or Sephora for $20+ (available in three sizes).
9. Or, a mineral-based sunscreen made with zinc oxide, which helps prevent dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Reviewers say it's surprisingly light considering it's a mineral sunscreen, and it blends in quickly without leaving a film.
It's got SPF 32.
Cocokind is a San Francisco-based small biz that makes truly dreamy, cruelty-free skincare products with sustainability in mind.
Promising review: "Best SPF I have ever tried. Bought it after hearing wonderful things about it and it was truly love at first sight!! It feels lightweight, dries fast, and sits well under makeup! Don't think I will ever go back!" —karla
Promising review: "Literally obsessed! I was on the hunt for a solid SPF that wouldn't leave a cast on my face for ages. I stumbled upon this one and haven't looked back since! It's super smooth, blends in well with other products, and doesn't sting my eyes at all! It's been one of best decisions I've made for my face in a long time, especially since moving to a beach town." —caro
10. Juvia's Place's Zulu Eyeshadow Palette for anyone who thinks a mere "pop" of color simply isn't enough. These vibrant hues will turn heads in the best possible way, so prep yourself for compliments from morning to night.
Juvia's Place is a Black woman-owned small biz dedicated to inclusive beauty for all genders and skin tones, and their vibrant products celebrate founder Chichi Eburu's African heritage.
Promising review: "This is my favorite summer palette. Each row works really well together, and I created some surprising looks mixing and matching from each row." —Deneyce
Promising review: "These colors are bold and beautiful. They blend well and feel lightweight on my eyes. The colors also last all day. I wear makeup to work, and it lasts through 12-hour shifts and still looks good by the time I get home. I definitely recommend this palette. Beautiful!" —Tamz
Get it from Juvia's Place or Ulta for $20.
11. Sephora Collection's Lipstories Lipstick, aka shockingly affordable lip color with staying power that rivals any high-end brand. And at less than 10 bucks, you'll probably wanna stock up on a few so you can switch things up this season — luckily, it comes in over 50 *stunning* colors.
Promising review: "This matte lipstick isn’t heavy or drying, which I love! It feels like a lightweight lipstick. Super cute for summer." —notryancoyne
Promising review: "I’ve been buying $20 lipsticks for years, and I’ve never really found one that I’ve stuck to and repurchased. I picked up festival lights as a bit of an impulse buy, and it’s my favorite shade I’ve ever tried. Some metallic shades are a bit too sparkly for me, but this is perfect and looks really nice! It stayed on the full length of an eight-hour shift, and I love the color so much. I will definitely buy again and will look at the other shades next time I’m in store!" —NonaiX
Get it from Sephora for $6+ (originally $9; available in 57 colors and in matte, satin, and metallic finishes).
12. Or, if you prefer liquid lip color, Maybelline New York's SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick to keep those kissers vibrant for lit-er-al hours on end. Its matte formula dries quickly to stay on your mouth instead of all the burgers and hot dogs you'll be eating this season, and using the handy precision applicator will make you feel like a makeup pro.
I wanted a bright red lip for my recent wedding celebration, but when I found out the forecast predicted a 97-degree day for my entirely outdoor party (ughhh), I knew I needed to find something that wouldn't make me look like the Joker five minutes in. Enter: this super affordable tube of liquid lipstick. Not only did it give me the vibrant color I was looking for, it went on easily, dried quickly (without making my lips feel parched), felt super lightweight, and stayed perfectly intact until I washed my face at 2 a.m. — and this was after hours of endless cheek kissing, cake eating, and Champagne drinking. Oh, and plenty of sweaty dancing. It's definitely my new summer favorite, and I'm already trying to decide which colors I should add to my collection.
Promising review: "This is perfect for you if you like long-lasting, matte lipstick. I wore it for my wedding: The lipstick lasted through hours with food, kissing, and heat without smudging or any change in how it looks. I have eaten fried chicken, burritos, pasta, and tons of other things while wearing this lipstick, and it stayed on perfectly without needing any real touch-ups. Seriously my holy grail liquid lipstick." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $7.58+ (available in 36 shades).
13. Beauty Bakerie's Face Flour Baking Powder for setting your makeup so it doesn't look like one of Salvador Dali's melting clocks by the time golden hour rolls around. Plus, it'll help absorb any excess oil for a smooth, matte look.
Based in San Diego, Beauty Bakerie is a Black woman-owned small biz making cruelty-free makeup and skincare products inspired by all things sweet.
Promising review: "Ok, I've never been sold on loose powder or baking. I have dry skin and I feel like it always sets in the lines rather than smoothing them. I've tried a lot of holy grail powders everyone swears by and they never worked. But this powder is amazing. It feels so weightless and light yet smooths my makeup and lines under my eyes. Never cakey. Always smooth. I use it both for baking and for just setting my concealer. Do yourself a favor and buy this powder now!" —Alyssa C
Promising review: "I bought this powder on a whim; now I will not buy another one. It sets under-eyes beautifully, and I don't ever crease under there, even after 13-hour days. It also sets the rest of the face wonderfully as well, but my problem area has always been my under-eye. Not anymore. I recently ran out and had to use a different powder. Lesson learned. It is the powder! I've used it with a brush and a sponge. It works amazing with both. And a little goes a long way!" —Cat E.
Get it from Amazon or Ulta for $24 (available in five shades).
14. Or, Urban Decay's All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray to lock in your look with a simple spritz. Its lightweight formula is a dream for warm, muggy days, and it's suited for all skin types, so get sprayin'!
It's vegan and cruelty-free!
Promising review: "This stuff works! I am 50 and rarely wear makeup, but when I do, this is my go-to! Very lightweight and looks amazing! Kept my makeup on all night (as the bottle states :))." —Webchick71
Promising review: "Let me tell you — GET THIS. Before I went out with my friends, I sprayed this all over my face. We went out, and hours later I fell down a flight of stairs; I got a concussion and two black eyes, was rushed in an ambulance to the ER, where I was for eight hours. I cried, got a CT scan, blood drawn, tetanus shot, etc. But my makeup? Stayed on like a charm. Can’t hype it up enough." —emmaaleee
Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $15+ (available in two sizes).
15. And while we're on the topic of setting, a cool as a cucumber SPF 38 face mist if you want sun protection, but without the strong smell that often accompanies lotion formulas. The refreshing cucumber extract hydrates and soothes, while the light spray will help keep makeup in place.
It's got SPF 38.
Promising review: "The best lightweight face SPF I have come across! I spray it right over my makeup and I can't even tell I have sunscreen on! No heavy oil residue or streakiness! Also it works...spent hours outside in 85 degree direct sun and no burn!" —Melissalkossack
Promising review: "I absolutely LOVE this sunscreen mist! I always struggled to remember to put on SPF before my makeup and now I don’t have to! Naked face or full face of makeup, I can just spray some on before I leave the house. It’s also small enough to keep one in my purse. And the SMELL! I looove the cucumber smell. It’s so refreshing. Definitely recommend." —Nessarcoiris
Get it from Sephora for $30.
16. A legendary vitamin C-based face serum that'll give dull, tired skin new life, even after the first use. Use it on the reg for even more noticeable results over time, and don't be alarmed by how often you catch yourself looking at your brighter, more even-looking skin in the mirror.
Promising review: "This serum is better than anything I have ever used! It is lightweight, absorbs quickly, and gives my face such a smooth feel and look. It has also quickly diminished acne scars on my face!" —Denise Eberline
Promising review: "Let me first say — never have I ever written a product review. This product is amazing. Best money spent. Within two minutes of putting a dropper amount on my face, I could physically feel my face tighten. That was instant gratification. It clears my skin, tightens, tones, softens. I may not be able to smell it but it doesn’t smell to me at all. It’s not greasy and doesn’t make me break out, so it’s very breathable." —Sarah Y
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (also available in a 2-pack).
17. Tarte's Amazonian Clay Waterproof Bronzer, because the last thing anyone wants is a noticeable streak running down their face in the middle of a hot afternoon. Plus, it'll give you a luminous, beachy glow sans the sun's harmful rays.
Promising review: "I mean, do I even need to write this review? This bronzer is the creme de la creme and it definitely lives up to the hype. It's very lightweight and blends beautifully. It's really buildable, so you can go for a subtle or bold look, or build upon your existent skin tone. I'm very fair and this is one of the only bronzers that doesn't look odd on my pale skin!" —6isit6
Promising review: "This product is a must for quick, on-the-go beauty. Feels good on the skin, no matter the humidity (my skin runs oily and tends toward breakouts), and gives a natural look. And with more brushing, can be made to give a more dramatic, sculpted look. Having just got back from a business trip with it: Yes, it travels well for a compact." —amusthavebronzer
Get it from Sephora for $30.
18. Or, a super affordable bronzer so you'll look like you spend every day at the beach even if you're literally just chilling on the couch 24/7 (no shame!). It's also waterproof, so bronzer: 1, face sweat: 0.
Promising review: "I am in love with my new Natural Bronzer from Rimmel London. It is the perfect brown bronze shade. It is fully pigmented, but so easy to blend out! Perfect for any makeup look. I love the quality of this product. It stays put and does not shift. It blends into my other base products very well. Also, it is incredibly affordable, which I love! A great value for the product! The pan size is very large, so it will last you for a very long time! The perfect bronzer for summer! I am extremely happy with my purchase and I definitely recommend this bronzer!" —Katiebobeauty
Promising review: "Great price. Very lightweight, yet gives me some color." —Angela
Get it from Amazon for $2.39+ (available in packs of one or two and in four shades).
19. A BareMinerals tinted gel cream with SPF 30 you can wear on stifling days when you want a more even, dewy complexion without dealing with heavy foundations. It provides sheer, light coverage (perfect for that "no makeup" look!) and is formulated with hyaluronic acid that'll keep your skin hydrated.
Promising review: "This is my holy grail tinted moisturizer! Every single time I wear it out I get compliments and questions about what I use to make my skin look so beautiful. It checks all my boxes for being lightweight, clean, having sunscreen coverage and natural looking. I will always have this on hand!" —renifromthebloc
Promising review: "I never write reviews, but I always base 90% of my new purchase choices off of them. This product was definitely worth five stars for me. I have combination skin, and I wanted a tinted moisturizer that I could wear this summer because all my foundations melt right off my face. (Note that I sweat like a cow.) I just went out riding RZRs all day and night, in the humid heat, to come home to it still intact. I will definitely be stocking up!" —autjac
Get it from Amazon for $19.86+ (available in seven shades) or Sephora for $22+ (available in two sizes and 20 shades).
20. Or, Nars' Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer, which has vitamin C to give dull skin a little boost of brightness along with its broad spectrum sun protection.
It's got SPF 30.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this tinted moisturizer. I used this every day. I have an oily T-zone and it holds up great! Very long lasting and very lightweight, the best for summertime!" —MonicaSaba
Promising review: "I rarely leave reviews, but THIS product is worthy. I’ve tried every tinted moisturizer in the book. They either felt too thick, sat on top of my skin, or the color range was never fair enough. This product is extremely easy to apply, blends into my skin color quickly, and has the most beautiful/natural radiant finish. 10/10 recommend for those with sensitive skin looking for the perfect summer tint + hydration + SPF." —whatliftsyou
Get it from Amazon for $42.99+ (available in nine shades) or Sephora for $46 (available in 16 shades).
21. Or! Wet n Wild's Bare Focus Tinted Hydrator for a vvv affordable, lightweight skin veil. It won't make your skin suffocate, and if you're feeling a little dry, it'll also help moisturize and nourish from morning to night.
Just remember that this one doesn't contain SPF, so you'll want to pair it with sunscreen.
Promising review: "Perfect for hot Texas summers. Doesn’t melt off, lasts all day. Lightweight and breathable. Covers up what I need it to. Spot on as far as the color goes." —Laura
Get it from Amazon for $4+ (available in nine shades).
22. Tower 28's SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray, which anyone who experiences redness and irritation should include in their skincare regimen. It's a pH-balancing hypochlorous acid toner, meaning it'll soothe and nourish sensitive skin, and reviewers say the light mist made them feel refreshed, not greasy.
Tower 28 is a small biz whose founder, Amy Liu, has struggled with eczema for years. The brand specializes in products for sensitive skin, and everything is also vegan and cruelty-free.
Promising review: "A great pick-me-up for tired skin. This mist is so refreshing and lightweight! I love that it instantly soothes my skin; it gives my skin a nice dewy look and I also love that this mist is 100% natural. Definitely a product you would want to try out at least once." —thaitea1120
Promising review: "I struggle with acne and needed something to help calm and soothe my skin when it was really irritated. My skin tends to be dry right after cleaning and spraying this leaves my skin feeling so comfortable and like I haven’t done anything to it. Back to normal happy skin feel. It is part of my daily routine now. Absolutely love this!" —CliftonM2121
Get it from Sephora for $12+ (available in two sizes).
23. And, a jar of Dr. Jart+'s color correcting treatment for balancing out redness and giving thirsty skin a boost of hydration. And while we're on the subject of redness, it's got SPF 30, so painful sunburns, be gone!
Promising review: "I have rosacea and pink undertones, and this is the ONLY product I’ve found that helps. Lightweight, dewy finish. I don’t even wear foundation anymore. Will definitely purchase again." —tbelz91
Promising review: "My makeup artist used this on my wedding day and I was so blown away with the coverage of my redness. I ordered a jar for myself shortly after and it’s quickly become a holy grail in my skincare/makeup routine. I don’t even need to use green concealer if I put this on under my makeup. The SPF is an added bonus!" —MariaTheGreek
Get it from Amazon for $69.99 or Sephora for $20+ (available in two sizes).
24. A Supergoop body oil you'll wanna slather alllll over once you see how glowy it makes your skin without feeling greasy. You'll probably wonder how something so lightweight could offer ample sun protection, but it's got an impressive SPF of 50!
Promising review: "As a woman with brown skin, I love this sunscreen oil. I use this as a facial sunscreen. It is moisturizing, yet lightweight and does not leave an ashen cast on my skin. It has not caused any breakouts. I recommend this highly." —AbogadaBorinque
Promising review: "I love this so much, this is my new go-to sunscreen! I like the spray nozzle because it's convenient and I like the way this product absorbs in faster than other similar products I've tried in the past, leaving my skin feeling like skin. The scent is pleasant and not too strong. I've been using it regularly for a month now and the bottle is still pretty much full, so a little goes a long way." —pumpkinbob
Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $15+ (available in two sizes).
25. Danessa Myricks Beauty's Colorfix Eye, Cheek, and Lip Cream Pigment, which will undoubtedly become the most reached-for item in your makeup bag once you discover how versatile it is. It comes in a gorgeous array of matte, metallic, and high shine hues to give you a gorgeous boost of color that'll certainly outlast your newest summer fling.
It's cruelty-free!
Danessa Myricks Beauty is a Black, woman-owned small biz dedicated to creating "a world of beauty for people from all races, ages, and genders."
Promising review: "This is my first time trying this product and I absolutely love it. It is transfer-proof and the color is very vibrant. I used it as a lipstick, eyeliner, and an eyeshadow. I have combination skin, and I have to say I’m pleased with the wearability of this product. Upon applying it, it feels like a cream, but once it dries, it becomes weightless and matte. I really loved this product because I could barely tell I was wearing anything on my face. Usually, I have a hard time finding products that are genuinely transfer-proof, smudge-proof, and weightless. I am so happy I stumbled upon this product. I also have to say that it’s pretty easy to take off as well depending on what products you use. I used the Garnier waterproof micellar water and with a few swipes there was very little smudging, and the product came right off." —whailey
Get it from Sephora for $18 (available in 33 colors).
26. A leave-in conditioning spray for anyone whose hair gets frizzy even just from hearing the word "humidity." Its lightweight texture won't weigh hair down, whether it's fine, thick, straight, or coily, and if you're tangle-prone, spritz some on after you shower and avoid an unnecessary battle with your brush.
It's made with rosehip, argan, and coconut oils (moisture, moisture, moisture!) and is designed for use with all hair types.
Briogeo is a Black woman-owned small biz dedicated to making inclusive haircare products that are cruelty-free, gluten-free, and mostly vegan.
Promising review: "My hair is always frizzy and because I have relatively thin hair, sometimes hair oils feel quite heavy. This product has changed my life. Not only does it smell amazing, but it also has tamed my frizzy hair! It's lightweight, so it's perfect for summer!" —hchoi2191
Promising review: "Magical. I have coarse 3c hair and this worked wonders at keeping frizz at bay. I live in a pretty humid climate and have tried MANY products and techniques to combat frizz. I used this as soon as it arrived on second day hair; later that day I went on a run, and my hair still looked great. Definitely a new staple." —kbeauxk
Get it from Amazon for $24 or Sephora for $10+ (available in two sizes).
27. And, a salonworthy heat and humidity gel to help frizz-prone curls keep their bounce — a must for all of those outdoor weddings on your calendar. It locks out humidity without drying hair, and won't leave your curls feeling crusty or sticky, just looking perky!
FYI — Some reviewers with 4a/4b hair types mentioned this not being as effective for them but keep reading for another option below!
Promising review: "This is the BEST lightweight, non-sticky hair gel for my coarse/curly hair. Love it!" —Kathryn Johnson
Promising review: "I have 2a/2b curly hair and spent my life looking for ways to manage frizz. On rainy days, I used to say 'stand back everybody, I don’t know how big my hair is going to get!' Then, I discovered Advanced Climate Control in NYC while working there for almost two years. NY humidity was much more than I was used to and I just kept trying products looking for help. I add this to my 'Curly Girl' routine as the last product when wet and it is terrific. I spent a rainy weekend trip with my curls intact and frizz free as a result. Great product, highly recommend!" —KMR
Get it from Amazon for $26.
28. Or, a curl-enhancing mousse that'll restore moisture, shine, and definition while providing a soft hold. Bring it on, swampy summer weather!
It's designed for wavy, curly, and coily hair.
Promising review: "I first bought this mousse two months ago and it was my first time using mousse for my short 4 A/B/C hair. It is hands-down the best product I've used for my hair at this length, and I've tried MANY over the years. The curl definition is fantastic, and the product is lightweight but keeps my hair moisturized. I saturate my wet hair with it and then twist small pieces around my fingers to define the curls a bit more. Sometimes it does look foamy in my hair right after I put it in, but it dries quickly and becomes invisible." —Erica
Promising review: "This mousse is THE ONE!!!! It smells incredible, it detangles effortlessly, and I can reactivate my curls after a good steam shower or spray bottle, thus longevity in product. My hair is tightly coiled, and even though I have volume, it is fine not thick. This mousse doesn't flake, harden, or destroy my curl pattern. It moisturized, nourished, and defined my curls from root to tip. My search has finally ended." —MiMi H.
Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in two sizes).
29. A brightening moisturizer formulated with darker skin tones in mind, since it swaps the chalky residue for a glowy, radiant finish. Plus, it's got vitamin C to help reduce signs of sun damage.
It's got SPF 30.
Bolden is a small, Black woman-owned biz making skincare products that are never tested on animals.
Promising review: "I love this moisturizer. Being a dark-skinned African American, I find that often times sunscreen leaves a residue. This is the first sunscreen I've ever used that doesn't leave any weird discoloration, feels great on my skin, and it aids in reducing hyperpigmentation. I even have sensitive skin and haven't had any breakouts while using Bolden's sunscreen. A pump and a half is all I need for my face and neck. I highly recommend it and will be buying more for my family." —Missy D
Promising review: "I love this product. It’s lightweight and I feel secure when I’m in the sun, especially when I apply it on top of serum that increases sun sensitivity." —Amazon Customer
30. Bobbi Brown's Under Eye Corrector, aka your new holy grail product if dark circles are your nemesis. Banish those babies once and for all with this lightweight (and waterproof!) cream, which comes in eight shades designed to offset any unwanted under-eye shadows throughout the day.
Promising review: "This corrector is so lightweight and long lasting. It truly works wonders. I highly recommend trying this product out if you have dark under eyes. I've been using it for a few days and already have seen a difference." —donyaf26
Promising review: "I have extremely dark circles as well as bags under my eyes that have gotten worse with aging. Most concealers or correctors do nothing to cover them. As a matter of fact, some simply make them stand out even more. I ordered the Bobbi Brown Undereye Corrector and was surprised at how it easily covered not only my dark circles but also sun damage that I have with ease. It is thick with maximum coverage and does a great job of neutralizing any discoloration. Amazingly, it STAYS ON all day. Living in Florida, I find that the humidity usually breaks down my makeup, and this stayed on even when sweating outdoors. BEST OF ALL, it did not find its way into my creases." —zipporahs1
Get it from Sephora for $32 (available in 11 shades).
31. A shimmery Coppertone spray sunscreen that'll make your skin shine bright like a diamond while shielding it with broad spectrum SPF 50!
Promising review: "I love this sunscreen! I love the subtle glow in addition to the excellent sun protection. Used it every day on a beach vacation and didn’t get sunburned once." —Pam
Promising review: "This sunscreen spray is not too heavy or oily. It is light with a beautiful shimmer. If you are looking for a sunscreen with some pretty shimmer, I would recommend this as a top pick." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $8.98.
32. A bottle of truly iconic Bio-Oil you might be familiar with because of its scar and stretch mark-fading properties, but it can also take your skin from borderline scaly to oh-so-soft after just one application. It's formulated with vitamins A and E, along with chamomile, sunflower, and lavender oils, which provide much-needed hydration without clogging pores or making skin feel greasy (the worst!).
Promising review: "After just about three weeks of use I’ve seen such a positive change in both the evenness and texture of my skin. Melasma and acne scarring have faded pretty dramatically — I don’t even bother putting on foundation when I do my makeup in the morning. The oil is so lightweight and doesn’t exacerbate my already oily complexion." —L T C
Promising review: "I bought this for my scars but because of the current COVID-19 crisis I have been washing my hands so much that they are painfully dry. Hand cream hasn't helped enough so I decided to use the Bio-Oil on them and even after the first application they felt SO much better! I'm glad I bought the big bottle!" —L. Strand
Get it from Amazon for $8.92+ (available in three sizes and several bundle packs).
33. Stila's Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner, which is a bonafide classic (it's got 7,000+ 5-star reviews on Sephora and 18,000+ on Amazon!). Reviewers say it lives up to its name by providing long-lasting wear so you can rock a bold, dramatic eye that will. not. budge! Now if only the same could be said of that strapless bra all of your sundresses require...
Promising review: "I ventured into the world of eyeliner as a beginner with this product. Needless to say, as a beginner, eyeliner is never easy. But it was this product that got me to being the pro I am today with winged liner! It's so easy to glide on, the applicator has a nice thin tip for a thinner line and a thicker body for a bolder look. The pigmentation is great, doesn't smudge or wear all day. However, if you make a mistake it isn't difficult to remove and touch up. It's also extremely lightweight so it doesn't feel sticky or wet. I have no negative things to say about this; I will never use any other eyeliner." —Caroleene
Promising review: "I gave birth to our son, and after 12+ hours of labor and an emergency C-section — my eyeliner was still fire. When my doctor walked into the delivery room to tell us that C-section was the best option [and after we agreed and were waiting on the operating room], her next comment was, 'Let’s talk about that eyeliner — you look fantastic!!'" —nattieknobs
Get it from Amazon for $23 (available in three styles and eight colors) or Sephora for $12+ (available in two sizes and six colors).
34. A roll-on skin tint you'll wanna get your hands on if you hate getting makeup...on your hands. With this, you just squeeze the tube, roll the product on, and rub it in with a blender or brush! Reviewers say it strikes just the right balance between providing coverage and not completely masking your skin's natural beauty.
It's got SPF 30.
Promising review: "In love with this! It is so lightweight and easy to use! I have a disability and the fact that it is in a stick sort of form makes it super easy to use! I just love this brand so much because of that!" —ChloeCat1441
Get it from Sephora for $42 (available in 14 shades).
35. Or, a super budget-friendly Maybelline Fit Me foundation that glides on like a dream and provides ample, long-lasting coverage.
It's got SPF 18, so be sure to pair with a stronger sunscreen if you'll be outside for long periods of time!
I also wore this very foundation to my vvv hot and humid outdoor wedding celebration! That being said, I never once felt this running off my face, and when I looked in the mirror at the end of the night, my makeup still looked completely intact! I typically apply the foundation over a moisturizer with a higher SPF, and find that it goes on nice and smoothly without making my face feel like it's covered in a thick layer of film (the actual worst). Plus, it gives great coverage when you want more than a tinted moisturizer, but without that cakey look. Definitely lightweight enough to make it a worthy addition to your summer makeup stash!
Get it from Amazon for $3.42+ (available in dewy and smooth or matte and poreless, and in many shades of each).
36. Fenty Beauty's super-popular Match Stix Matte Contour Skinstick, because listen up, contour newbies: this baby won't let you down. It's lightweight enough for seamless blending, so no dry, cakey appearance, and it's formulated for all day wear. Plus, it's vegan!
If it's good enough for RiRi, it's good enough for us!
Promising review: "Fantastic coverage, lightweight, long-wearing with next to no oxidation or shine. I use this as a concealer or by itself as a foundation on days when I wear minimal makeup." —temgirl813
Promising review: "I’m impressed. A whole day of work, humid/hot weather, gym sweat, and even a beach day, and at the end of the day it’s still on! THIS IS IT for me and contour sticks." —HappyPisces
Get it from Sephora for $14+ (available in two sizes and seven shades).
37. Supergoop's (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder, which comes in handy when you need to reapply your sunscreen, but don't want to mess up your look. It's got SPF 35, and psst: it's the perfect thing to brush onto your hair part, since it won't make your roots look greasy.
Promising review: "I have a few of their products and let me tell you, this is my favorite. It's easy to apply, mess free, and super lightweight. Super practical, I carry it in my purse for an easy replication." —brenda03312
Promising review: "Purchased this product for my wedding — knew I would have professional makeup done and that we would be taking photos outside. I have very fair skin and burn very easily, so I knew I needed some sort of SPF protection. This was perfect to brush over my face, neck, and shoulders before photos and I was completely protected from the sun! Highly recommend!" —Jennyg788
Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $30 (available in four shades).
38. A luxurious yet lightweight sun cream that's a real treat for your skin. Along with sun protection, it's formulated with soothing, antioxidant-packed white lotus extract and niacinamide for reducing the appearance of dark spots.
It's got SPF 50+.
Peach & Lily is an Asian- and woman-owned small business that makes Korean skincare products using natural, toxin-free ingredients.
Promising review: "I absolutely *love* this sunscreen. It's super lightweight and smells absolutely amazing. It doesn't give white cast and my skin drinks it up and feels so refreshed. I have sensitive skin and not only does this not irritate my skin, it actually calms it and makes it feel better. I didn't think that all of this could be combined in one sunscreen!" —Nova W.
Get it from Peach & Lily for $32.
39. Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind concealer to brighten dark circles and cover up blemishes, pronto. Let's face it — we've all been in those situations where we realize we look like we got mayyybe two hours of sleep the night before, but don't have all the time in the world to try to remedy it. With this, just dab, blend, and you'll instantly look more energized.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Emma Lord says: "TBH, three months ago I started using this myself (although this is former BuzzFeed editor Kayla Suazo's lovely human face above), and I am mad that I wasted time with other concealers for so long. I am a deeply impatient person who likes to look good and does not like to put in effort in any way, shape, or form, and Maybelline created this so that people like me could gracelessly slap it on in the morning and be like 'OKAY, REFLECTION, YOU GOT THIS' before being on their merry way. It never cakes, I look way more awake than I have any right to, and I never struggle to blend it the way I do with other concealers. 11/10 subscribe."
Promising review: "I’m quite emotional with how well this has worked for me. I have developed dark circles around my eyes due to a lack of sleep, tirelessly working through the pandemic and having my first baby. It’s super lightweight and not itchy on my sensitive skin. I’m so excited to see how well it blends in with the rest of my makeup (foundation, blushes etc). I am beyond impressed. Honestly, this concealer works better than my more expensive concealer I’ve been using for the past seven years. I feel more confident and so happy 😀" —Moe W.
Check out BuzzFeed's full Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer review for more deets.
Get it from Amazon for $7.50+ (available in 18 shades).
40. A sunscreen serum made with breakout-prone skin in mind so you can feel confident about slathering it on. Not only does it offer protection against UVA and UVB rays, it actually helps correct dark spots and soothes breakouts while blending seamlessly into your skin.
It's got SPF 50.
ZitSticka is a small biz specializing in skincare products for sensitive, breakout-prone skin with the goal of destigmatizing topics like zits and acne.
Promising review: "This is now the only sunscreen I use. It looks fantastic under all base products and actually helps in their application (no pilling!) My favorite thing is that it’s a one-and-done product: sunscreen, acne prevention, and makeup prep all in one easy step. The fewer products used on oily, acne-prone skin, the better! I am 39 and still have much of the same skin concerns I’ve always had and it would have been great to have this product 20 years ago. I have tried other, much more expensive options, but this is best-in-class for us acne-prone folks. I am already on my second bottle and will continue to repurchase. Lastly, it’s kind of fun to use with the cute little bottle-and-dropper system. If you don’t enjoy the chore of applying sunscreen every day, this will probably help you change your ways." —KR
Promising review: "Very lightweight and easy to apply, it's traceless. I will purchase again for sure. Leaves my skin so smooth." —Roxane L.
41. Josie Maran's sun milk, which contains the brand's signature argan oil to hydrate dry skin without ever feeling heavy. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide offer UVA and UVB protection, while a kakadu plum complex delivers plenty of vitamin C and antioxidants. Oh, and it's also got a pleasant, all-natural apricot scent!
It's got SPF 33.
Promising review: "Amazing! Finally found a sunscreen that doesn't clog my pores and cause breakouts. Plus I love the scent!" —CocoJeanne
Promising review: "This is the nicest feeling sunscreen I've used. It's thin and light. Doesn't leave white streaks. It also leaves my skin feeling moisturized. Great for wearing under makeup." —20cherie
Get it from Sephora for $17+ (available in two sizes).
42. And finally, a luminizing skin shield so you can get your glow on and get some valuable UVA/UVB protection at the same time. It contains zinc oxide, prism powder for a pore-blurring effect, and kiwi fruit water and ku shen root extract for promoting a more even skin tone.
It's got SPF 35.
Promising review: "Lightweight, doesn't smell like SPF, and looks fresh and glowy on my skin. I really enjoy it!" —menias
Promising review: "I typically hate SPF on my face because it'll feel greasy and breaks me out. This one feels like a silky smooth velvet finish and I have not had any breakouts! I love the pretty glow it gives my face and I use it under makeup or alone. I like that it makes my skin look better on no-makeup days, too. I absolutely adore the fact it doesn't have that traditional SPF smell that I can't stand. This has a very light, fresh scent that is almost unnoticeable, so great for sensitive people like me, and it doesn't give my skin a weird pale look either!" —natasharemee
Get it from Sephora for $35.
Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
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