Stunning summer weather and beach hangs brings the need to switch up the products in your beauty bag. From sorting out your sweaty, clogged pores to finding the perfect pop of lip colour for your warm weather outings, here are four summer beauty essentials to add to your arsenal…
Bioré Pore Penetrating Charcoal Bar
bh’s Beth says:
I’ve been hearing a lot about the benefits of charcoal skin care products lately, so I was excited to have the opportunity to finally trial one! The first thing I noticed was the black colour – très chic. I held the bar under the tap, using my hands to get a good lather, then smoothed the lather gently over my face. Wow, the peppermint scent is really strong! It could take some users time to get used to. The lather is surprisingly soft and creamy (rather than foamy), which I really liked as it felt like it wasn’t too drying. In terms of the exfoliating effect, there aren’t too many beads in the bar so it’s definitely not too rough. Once I rinse it off, my skin has a very squeaky clean feeling – there’s not a skerrick of dirt, oil or product left. I was worried my skin would start feeling tight as the product gives such a deep clean, but I used my regular moisturiser straight after and experienced no dryness whatsoever. I also found the absorption of my moisturiser was enhanced! As the bar gives such a deep clean, I probably wouldn’t feel the need to use it every day – maybe two to three times a week, especially after wearing heavy make-up or after an exercise sesh!
Natio Smoothie Lip Colour Crayon in Poppy
bh’s Sam says:
Well, they’ve definitely got the name right for this product because it applies on so smooth it’s ridiculous. The formula is really hydrating and comfortable on the lips, which has been a godsend for my sun damaged pout. The colour itself is sheer, so if you’re looking for a bold red – this isn’t the one for you. But if you’re after more of a glossy, muted red – it’s perfect. I like to use it during the day and carry it with me in my handbag. The only negative I’ve found is the lid sometimes falls off if I’m not careful, so make sure it’s nice and secure when you’re on the go. Overall it’s a great everyday balm for those who also like a little colour.
Palmolive Naturals Active Nourishment Shampoo and Conditioner
bh’s Astrid says:
Like so many of our members who participated in the Palmolive Naturals Trial Team, I love the smell of these products. They’re really fresh and fruity, and really last which is perfect for the summer season. What I really like about the shampoo is that for me, a lot goes a long way. I don’t need much to give my hair a really good wash. I feel like it’s nourishing my scalp as well as my hair! When I use the conditioner – initially I have this very soft, silky feeling with my hair. I live near the beach and go swimming almost every day, so the conditioner really helps detangle all those knots created from the wind and sea. Though the ends of my hair are still quite dry, I feel like this is a really great range of products for the price.
Ella Baché Great Tan Without Sun
bh’s Anna says:
I like to think of myself as somewhat of a fake tan aficionado. I have naturally white skin and fake tan at least once a week in the summer. I’ve tried SO many different brands and types of tan from spray to foam to liquid and everything in between, so I was keen to try Ella Baché’s new formula! The Ella Baché Great Tan Without Sun has a similar consistency to moisturiser so it glided onto my skin really easily. I used a mitt to apply the tan and this helped to spread it nice and evenly. The formula is tinted so there is a colour guide while you apply, (which is a big tick from me), however it’s not as dark as other tans I’ve used so I recommend applying it in a well-lit area. I followed the instructions and waited for half an hour after applying to get dressed then let the tan develop for six hours (for the darkest colour). I didn’t feel sticky at all and the tan developed to a really lovely, natural colour that got me loads of compliments in the office the next day! My absolute favourite thing about this self-tan is that it smells absolutely delightful – like a scented moisturiser rather than a fake tan. Plus, it contains cocoa butter so my skin was not only beautifully bronzed but also soft and hydrated. Two thumbs up from this tanaholic!
Have you tried any of these summer products? Which one stands out for you?
