7 Sephora makeup must-haves for the perfect summer glow

Summer is almost here and if you’re anything like me, you’re already on the hunt for your new go-to, melt-proof products. Have no fear because I’ve been to Sephora three times in the last 2 weeks researching this very thing. I have acne-scarred, light-to medium, olive skin with yellow undertones that gets more golden as summer goes on. Finding the perfect makeup for my skin, especially for warmer months, is like trekking through the wilderness with no survival backpack. I’ve spent way too much time Googling and YouTubing techniques and how-to’s while reading makeup review blogs and still couldn’t find exactly what I liked. That is, until I wandered into Sephora (aka my favorite blackhole ever)!

In previous summers, I settled on drugstore foundation and powder which, to be clear, is fine if you find the right shade and consistency for your skin tone. I found I wasted more money trying to figure that part out and tossing product away that didn’t work for me. What I love about Sephora is the ability to try things before I buy them and if they still don’t work out, I can return them for something that will. If you’re looking for that summer glow you can pull off in no time at all, here are my seven Sephora summer must-haves for any skin-type.

Backlight Priming Filter by Becca

This. Stuff. Is. Amazing. I’m not one to wear primers on the daily because I like a simple routine with minimal makeup unless I’m going out. This stuff gives that candlelit glow, diffusing all those little imperfections. It can be worn alone for a luminous, sheer look, or under foundation. Regardless, don’t leave home without it!

tarte Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation

I’ve had THE WORST time trying to find a foundation that works for my combination skin. It seems everything I try either clings to the dry parts or emphasizes the oily parts. But this, THIS, is the holy grail. Despite mixed reviews, it’s worked for my defiant skin, leaving it moisturized without that cakey-feeling and holds up through a hot day. The only downside is the color pallet can be limiting but if you find your shade, GET THIS NOW.

Urban Decay Naked Flushed

This palette is a multi-tasking genius! I use the palette called “Streak,” and it includes bronzer, highlighter, and blush that all compliment each other and you can can even mix them all together for a unique glow that lasts all day! Literally a lifesaver when I’m trying to get out the door and still look “put together.”

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

There’s no better way to control my oily T-zone than to set with a translucent powder, and this one is especially fab because it gives a soft focus blur, doesn’t settle into lines or imperfections, and literally lasts all day through the sweltering sun. This is the quintessential summer powder, IMHO.

Sephora Favorites Lashstash To Go

I’m a mascara-fiend, so this “try it” set was a no-brainer. Currently in between mascaras, I wanted something to really dramatize my eyes but wasn’t sure where to start. I’ve used so many brands, and loved a few, but wanted something different. This box allowed me to try five different best-selling mascaras, which was awesome, and when finished, I have a voucher to redeem the full size of my mascara of choice. Besides finding my mascara soulmate, this set costs also slightly less than one tube of a full-sized counterpart.

Lancôme L’ABSOLU ROUGE

This is a super lipstick perfect for the summer months! Not only does it contain Pro-Xylane and SPF 12 sunscreen, but it’s super moisturizing (which means it won’t dry out quenched lips), stays put all day with minimal touch-up and comes in the most gorgeous saturated colors! I use Saffron Silk when I’m feeling low-key and Misty Rose when I need to amp it up. They each give that summer feel without being too much and feel good on the lips while doing it.

Urban Decay All-Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

Summer doesn’t have to mean either going bare-faced or worrying about melting makeup! This spray sets everything in place with a microfine mist. It’s light and airy and I completely forget it’s there, keeping my makeup on point all day long. It even has a patented Temperature Control Technology that “lowers the temperature of your makeup to keep foundation, eyeshadow, blush, and concealer in place — even in hot and humid or cold and windy conditions.” What’s not to love?!

With these ultimate must-haves, you’ll be fresh-faced and out the door in 10 minutes flat. Having been through the gamut with finding a no-fuss, easy coverage makeup routine that gives a fresh glow, I’m finally ready for my most confident summer yet!