This summer feeling beauty article is part of our Shop The Street series. Our editors curate collections of new and noteworthy products (and let you know why you should add to cart). Know, though, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Tap for more info.
I first learned of the meaning of Madeleine de Proust on a Paris-food-on-foot tour. My guide, originally from St. Tropez, said a bite of a choux instantly brought her back to the smell of her hometown beach and the kiss of the cold ocean air on her skin. (I think that sounds prettier in French.) She explained that for writer Marcel Proust, the madeleine was an emotional and sensorial trigger for the novelist, overwhelming him with memories of his childhood. Think of this list as the beauty version for summer. I’m taking these beauty products with me into the coming cool months. They will be my Madeleine de Proust giving me the warmth, laid-back, always-a-good-time, iced-cocktail reminder of summer.
Sun-kissed cheeks
I love the aesthetic of a reddish blush. As a far-too-fair face, I only get red from the sun where others put highlighter. And Mama is that perfect faux-burn that looks flush and with a hint of sweat (in a good way). As a gel, it retains its pigment and suits a range of skin tones. It’s the best of a highlighter and a blush in a single pot, which can be also used for a pretty pout, too.
The best (and prettiest) drugstore blushes.
Eyes for the fun of it
When I worked at a beauty magazine, I recall talking to the beauty editor about how Stila’s liquid pen eyeliner was the best eyeliner in Canada. She confirmed that it’s a best seller and that… drumroll… I was right. It is the best eyeliner ever! And back when I lived in France, all the dark lashed women I saw wore bright eyeliner, which makes peepers pop.
The wet lash look is a nod to ’60s coolness: Here’s how to master it.
Vitamin sea
The sun is the reason sunspots are called sun spots. And even though I try my damndest to stay out of the sun, I’m team skin-first. I love this vitamin C serum and this vitamin cream. The serum brightens and firms skin, while evening out the tone and fading spots. I like how the cream absorbs well, makes skin look healthy and hydrated. It also has a soft citrusy scent that reminds me of the freshness of a limoncello spritz.
Frozen mornings, radiant Skin: Meredith Shaw reveals her winter skincare essentials.
SPF, AYL
I’m all about skin protection all year long. Admittedly, lotions and creams aren’t my fav. Instead, I appreciate a balm. I know it’s there. I don’t have to rub it in. It is what it is and it stays where it’s at (shout out to my fellow Newfs). This mineral sunscreen is SPF 50, easy to carry, and goes on the face, body and lips. How easy is that?
Here’s what a dermatologist wants you to know about common sunscreen myths.
Eye-catching
Summer is an amazing time, but the early sunrises and my lack of blackout drapes mean I’m sleeping less. I like to think I’m covering that up with the best eye care strategy: a daily regime plus a luxurious break-glass emergency treatment. Both make me look awake, well rested and, frankly, like I just came from a facial. Actually, just writing about this reminds me that I need to replenish my skin fridge.
What do balms actually do for your skin?
Petal pusher
While I may have to wait until next June to enjoy the pink peonies in my yard, I can sneak a whiff of its subtle scent in my hair. Made for sensitive scalp, it cleanses without disrupting the natural pH of hair and skin. I pair it with the instantly cooling conditioner as a refreshing pick-me-up in the morning shower. But the soft floral scent sticks with me all day.