BB cream

Steadily gaining popularity for a couple of years, BB cream (or beauty balm) is a great option for summer because it combines several products you’re probably already using. BB creams are basically a primer, moisturizer, SPF and tint all in one (depending on the brand you might also get blemish-busting or anti-aging ingredients, too). We just like it because when it’s hot out, less is more when it comes to what we want on our face.

Try it: Boscia B.B. Cream ($27) boasts SPF 27, hydrates and tones skin while also providing light, skin-evening coverage.

Bronzing powder

Obviously we’ll be slathering on the SPF rather than baking on the beach, but that doesn’t mean we don’t want a healthy sun-kissed glow. For that we’ll be relying on bronzing powder, which is the easiest way to get a faux glow. Apply a light dusting only where the sun would naturally hit your face.

Try it: Bobbi Brown Shimmer Cheek Glow ($39) is a unique skin-illuminating powder and gel hybrid that gives skin a natural beach-side glow.

Shimmer eye shadow

Light reflecting shadows are perfect for summer because they offer lighter coverage with a hint of shimmer that works for warmer months and brightens up your eyes. Choose pink, peach and champagne-hued shadows for optimum summer-ready eyes.

Try it: We like Nars Shimmer Shadow in Baby Girl, a soft, summery pink ($24).

Lip & cheek stain

We love cheek and lip stains because you don’t need to use much to add subtle color, and the product is easy to layer depending on how much coverage you want. Stains just seem to feel lighter than their powder or cream-based counterparts, which is something we look for in the summer months.

Try it: Get reintroduced to one of the classic multitasking stains, Benefit’s Benetint, a rose-tinted sheer color for lips and cheeks ($29).

Oil blotting papers

Summer shine is something that can’t be avoided, but rather than continually pat on powder (which can create a mask-like effect), we suggest keeping oil blotting papers in your purse. These won’t mess with your makeup or leave any further product behind.

Try it: Sephora Oil Blotting Papers quickly absorb excess oil and reduce pesky shine ($8).

Read about more of our favorite Pretty Little Things >>

Tell us

What are your summer beauty essentials? Share in the comments below!

More beauty tips and trends

Must-have beauty products for gorgeous skin
Dangerous skin care ingredients to avoid
Nail art tutorial