Definitely Some But Not a Ton of Makeup-Makeup

It’s a known (not really) fact (theory): everyone is hotter during the summer, or at least I definitely am. A little bit of color goes a long way for my complexion, and my skin glows in temperatures above 80 degrees. This summertime beauty boost often means I end up wearing less makeup. No makeup? Sure, sometimes, but I like wearing makeup, blemish-free or not.

While I tend to keep my makeup fairly natural-looking, I’ve never really understood the allure of no-makeup makeup. If I’m taking the time and care to paint my face, why would I want people to think I’m going makeup-free? Why is that the desired response? The answer is rooted deep within the human psyche, and, quite frankly, I’m not interested in digging into that at the moment.

This is all to say that I’m never going to go for a no-makeup makeup look. I opt for more of a definitely-some-but-not-a-ton-of-makeup makeup look. Scroll on for the products that get the job done.

Tinted Face Oil*, Kosas; $42

This skincare-makeup hybrid is a personal favorite for summer because of its natural finish and incredibly soothing, light texture. I shake the bottle before squeezing three to eight drops into my palm. I then rub my hands together and press the product into my skin. It leaves me with a sheer but effective wash of color that still looks like skin, just a bit better. It really works on most every skin type—even the oilier ones.

Stretch Concealer, Glossier; $18

I’ve been using this bouncy, buildable concealer under my eyes. It brightens and blends seamlessly into the skin and never feels too cakey or heavy. The dewy finish helps the product glide right on, and I’ve noticed minimal creasing.

Hollywood Flawless Filter*, Charlotte Tilbury; $44

I…don’t completely know this product’s intended use—the brand refers to it as a liquid tinted complexion booster, which is very vague. Even still, it’s an amazing, incredibly versatile product. I’ll put this under my eyes, on my cheekbones, mixed in with my foundation, sometimes I even apply it all over. It creates a dewy finish without feeling sparkly or flashy.

Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Bronzer, Fenty Beauty; $32

I’ve recently been on a cream cheek product kick. I love the way they melt into the skin and create a more subtle look than powders. This cream bronzer is super lightweight and creates natural-looking definition. It’s easy to blend, meaning it’s virtually impossible to overdo it, and the formula is sweat- and water-resistant.

BeachPlease Tinted Lip + Cheek Balm*, Tower28; $20

I love a multi-use product, and this lip and cheek balm (which I also use on my lids) is no exception. Tower28 was formulated specifically for people with sensitive skin, so it’s ultra-nourishing without sacrificing color payoff. The buildable, luminous color creates a healthy, hydrated look that I’m absolutely obsessed with. This brand is one of my favorite 2020 finds so far.

Cloud Paint, Glossier; $18

Sometimes I get annoyed with the Glossier hype, but these are simply amazing. I own every single shade, though I’m particularly fond of Storm, Dusk, and Haze. The pillow-y formula is easy to blend, and a little product goes a long way. It melts right into the skin and leaves you with that just-had-sex flush.

Balm, Olio E Osso; $28

These lightly tinted balms are great for a rosy, dewy glow. The key word here is lightly—the color payoff is fairly sheer. Even still, the balms last forever and deeply hydrate the skin.

Macabeet Tinted Moisture Stick, Cocokind; $9

I told you I love a multi-use product. I recently picked this up from Whole Foods, and it’s become a fast favorite. It’s definitely on the lighter side in terms of pigmentation, but it’s the perfect little tube to throw in your bag and reapply throughout the day.

Ripe Flesh Glisten Drops*, Flesh; $28

I like a more ethereal, illuminating highlighter than a sparkly, glittery one. That’s why I love this one. It contains a high concentration of mica pearls which creates a sophisticated touch of light wherever applied. I can’t explain how but it somehow perfectly melts into my skin to create the ultimate glowing-from-within look.

Nude Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette*, Huda Beauty; $29

I have all three of these palettes, and I’ve found myself reaching for them more and more throughout the summer. I love the mix of matte and sparkly shadows in each palette—the variety allows for a myriad of neutral eye looks.

Brow Silk & Brush Bundle, Iconic London; $25

This set is kind of like a temporary brow lamination—it creates a bushier, fuller brow look without adding any sort of pigment or filling in the brow. I tend to lightly fill in my brows before applying this, but that’s more of a statement about my brows than the product itself. Plus, the gold brush makes for an incredibly luxurious experience.