Sweaty commutes. Over-airconditioned offices. Humidity that makes your foundation slide by 11AM. Summer throws a lot at your skin—and your routine needs to meet the moment. That’s where a well-prepped work tote comes in. Think no-mirror touch-ups, SPF you’ll actually reapply, a lip balm that works harder than your 9AM espresso. This is your streamlined, season-proof edit of lightweight, high-performance staples designed for real life (and real heat).
From a dry shampoo for the last-minute post-work plans to a no-sebum mineral powder that keeps your face shine-free, these eight products will keep you polished, protected and pulled-together—no matter what your calendar or the weather throws your way.
Mugwort
If that sounds like something out of Harry Potter, it might as well be—owing to its magical powers. A potent winter skincare ingredient, mugwort is that all-rounder you need to include in your skincare routine. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that work on all skin types and the calming herb hydrates, soothes and nourishes dry and irritated skin. Besides, it improves your skin’s barrier function. It helps reduce inflammation and irritation, while also stimulating collagen production.
Sunscreen can be heavy and greasy, especially when you’re dealing with summer heat. That’s where Beauty of Joseon’s matte sun stick comes in. This broad-spectrum formulation is your skin shield, but with a twist. Infused with calming mugwort and nourishing camelia, it hydrates and soothes your skin while providing sun protection. The matte finish is a game-changer—it leaves no greasy residue, making it ideal for those with oily skin or anyone looking to prevent shine. Besides, the stick format makes it easy to apply on the go without any mess, whether you’re in a meeting or on lunch break. Keep it in your tote bag—it won't budge your makeup, either.
Kayali’s Vanilla 28 is an experience in a bottle. Warm, comforting and subtly sweet, this perfume takes the best notes of vanilla and adds a deliciously rich twist. With hints of brown sugar, tonka bean and amber, this fragrance is airy enough for the summer months. The mini size is perfect to carry and spritz whenever you need a little refresh. The fragrance is an instant pick-me-up—and an ideal accessory for your summer beauty routine.
Exfoliating wipes are a simple yet effective way to keep your skin fresh throughout the day. And these ones are designed to also remove dirt, sweat and oil—especially helpful on humid days when you feel like your face is just a bit too shiny. Infused with skin-loving ingredients, these wipes exfoliate without being harsh, leaving your skin smooth and clear. Use them any time your skin starts to feel congested, whether that’s after your commute, during a lunch break or after a workout. Plus, they come in a compact, travel-friendly pack that fits perfectly in your tote. They’re a great way to keep your skin in check all day long, without having to worry about messy creams or complicated routines.
Infused with Laneige’s signature Cream Skin Toner, this mini spray is perfect for a quick burst of moisture when the summer air conditioning leaves your skin feeling tight and thirsty. A quick spritz and it will give your skin the moisture it needs to stay plump and dewy. You can use it over makeup or on bare skin for an instant moisture boost. It’s a fast and easy way to add hydration when you’re on the go, ensuring you maintain the glow no matter what your day looks like.
Summer tends to bring out the shine; and when you’re juggling meetings and deadlines, the last thing you want is to look like you’ve been sweating all day. The Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Powder helps combat excess oil, keeping your skin matte without drying it out. The powder’s light texture ensures that you won’t end up with a cakey look; and it also works as a perfect finishing touch to your makeup. Simply dust it over your face to set your makeup or apply a light layer throughout the day when you need some shine control. It helps that it’s formulated with natural minerals and contains mint extract to cool your skin during summer. Plus, the compact packaging makes it perfect for your tote and reapplying as needed. Whether you’re dealing with humidity or just want a fresh look, this one will have you covered.
A natural flush of colour on your cheeks is one of the simplest ways to bring life to your face. The Touch My Cheek blush in Pure Apricot delivers just that—a soft, peachy flush that looks like a healthy glow from within. The formula blends seamlessly, making it easy to apply with your fingers or a brush. The buildable colour is perfect for a subtle daytime look—layer it for more intensity when you want to amp up the hue for evening. Plus, it’s a multi-use product, so don’t hesitate to dab a little on your lips or eyelids for a cohesive look. The apricot shade works beautifully on all skin tones, making it a go-to for any makeup bag.
When the summer sun dries out your lips, you need an SPF-infused balm that works overtime. Dr. Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C Lip Balm is a nourishing formula that offers more than just moisture—it helps repair and protect your lips, too. The texture is rich but not sticky; and it glides on like a dream. Whether you’re prepping for a meeting, having your morning coffee or running errands, it will keep your lips hydrated and healthy. It also makes an excellent base for lipstick, ensuring your lips are in the best shape before applying any colour.
When you need a lip gloss that promises more than just shine, KIKO Milano’s 3D Hydra Lipgloss is a must. It adds a multi-dimensional, pearly sheen to your lips, making them look fuller and more defined. It’s hydrating and non-sticky, so you can apply it without worrying about that uncomfortable, tacky feeling. This gloss makes you look ready, without being too bold—a great option for both work and after-work plans. Besides, the subtle pearlescent finish is a cherry on top.
Didn’t have time for a full-blown shower routine? No problem. Kevin Murphy’s dry shampoo is here to rescue tired roots and frizzy ends. It claims to revive, texturise and refresh your locks. It is lightweight, non-greasy and smells divine.
PS: As much as this deserves a spot in your vanity, it is a temporary SOS solution to second or third-day greasiness and not a substitute for a good hair wash routine.
Summer heat and humidity can leave your hair feeling flat and greasy, but a great dry shampoo will come to the rescue. This Kevin Murphy buy is known to absorb excess oil, refresh your roots and add volume in a flash. It’s perfect for those rushed mornings when you don’t have time for a full hair wash or for midday touch-ups when your hair needs a little extra lift. The lightweight formula adds texture without leaving a chalky residue, so your hair looks clean, fresh and voluminous—all without the need for a blow-dryer.
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