What beauty stuff are you into these days? I always get a little more playful with makeup and hair in the summer, but I also cannot abide heavy-duty product when it’s hot outside. Fun, easy, and sweat-friendly — that’s the magic formula. Today, we’re sharing three summer beauty picks that the Cup of Jo editors are loving right now.
Jannelle’s pick: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
“Throughout my 20s, I used a high-end moisturizer from a department store. But during my second pregnancy, my skin became SO dry, and the face creams that had worked in the past felt like they were sitting on top of my skin instead of sinking into it. After researching even more expensive moisturizers, I felt so discouraged — I couldn’t justify spending $50 on a tiny jar that would last only a month.
“Finally, I reached out my friend who has eczema — if anyone would know the answer, she would. She recommended CeraVe Moisturizing Cream — the classic one in a tub — saying it had completely transformed her skin. Now, after two years of daily use, I, too, have witnessed CeraVe’s magical powers. It always feels like my skin drank a full glass of water. The cream doesn’t clog my pores, and my face looks glowy, never shiny — even on hot, sticky days. One tub lasts me at least five months, and when people compliment my skin, they’re always shocked that this simple moisturizer is the hero.”
Joanna’s pick: Tarte Cheek Plump and Tubing Mascara
“The other day, I walked by a mirror, and my face looked…gray? I needed a pop of color, and two great products I’ve recently discovered are cheek plump and tubing mascara. Blush sometimes sits on my dry (perimenopausal) skin, but this one is rosy and dewy and super lightweight — and, since it’s buildable, I swipe on just a bit for a natural look. And for date nights, have you ever tried tubing mascara? It’s wild! You apply it like a normal mascara, but it wraps your lashes in tubes so they immediately look much longer and thicker. The best part is, it keeps your lashes separated, not clumpy — so you look wide awake. I’d heard about tubing mascara for years, but never really understood it until now.” Bonus: Tarte is having a big summer sale with bestsellers from $5 to $25, until tomorrow morning.
Left: before. Center and right: after.
Kelsey’s pick: Christophe Robin Shade Variation Mask in Chic Copper
“I don’t get my hair professionally colored — for me, it’s too much hassle and expense — but I’ve always loved playing around with tinted shampoos and conditioners. This Christophe Robin one is the best I’ve ever found. It’s the perfect low-stakes color product. You just put it on after shampooing, instead of regular conditioner, and let it sit for five minutes before rinsing. Done!
“The mask gives your hair a boost, bringing out my auburn highlights and adding a wash of warmth and richness to my natural hair shade. The effect isn’t as dramatic as dye — but that’s what I love about it. There’s no prep work required, and no need for gloves or extra caution (it’s never stained my tub). And though it’s one of my splurgier products, the fact that I do pretty much nothing else with my hair makes it feel like a special treat. It’s just a little oomph, but it gives me such a lift.”
How about you? Any beauty faves that you’re loving this summer?
P.S. More beauty posts, including a five-second blush trick and four drugstore lipsticks with cult followings.
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