When it comes to summer beauty, I firmly believe that less is more. As the temperatures rise, so does the temptation to go makeup-free—yet most of us still want that even, radiant look that makes us feel confident and pulled together. The good news? You don’t need a dozen products to get there.
This summer, I’m leaning into a fresh, barely-there makeup look that still delivers that lit-from-within radiance we all want—without the cakey finish. It’s all about glowing skin, soft definition, and products that feel light, breathable, and beautiful on mature skin. So, whatever age you are, these three beauty staples are total game-changers for achieving a fresh, glowy, youthful look all summer long.
Here are the three beauty products I swear by for creating that effortless summer glow—with minimal effort and maximum impact. Let’s dive in!
For even more simple beauty tips and tricks for glowing skin, check out this post next!
top 3 summer beauty staples
Wonderfilter Brightening Primer by BeautyPie
If I had to describe this primer in one word, it would be: glowing. The Wonderfilter Primer is the perfect first step in your summer beauty routine because it instantly adds that subtle lit-from-within radiance we all crave—without feeling the least bit heavy or greasy.
It blurs pores and fine lines, evens out your skintone just enough, hydrates instantly, and creates the most beautiful soft-focus finish. I’ll often wear this on its own on no-makeup days when I just want to look a little more fresh. And when I do layer makeup over it, it’s so good that I actually end up using less foundation in the end, and it creates the perfect canvas for a barely-there base. It’s seriously like having a real-life Instagram filter, but subtle and skin-friendly. It’s your skin, but better!
For even more hydration, you’ll love my favorite, luxurious face oil by Colleen Rothschild.
And use code BUSBEE20 for 20% off!
Merit The Minimalist Complexion Stick
This little stick does it all. Part concealer, part foundation, and 100% genius, the Merit Minimalist Stick has become a staple in my summer routine because it offers just the right amount of coverage—nothing more, nothing less.
The creamy texture blends like a dream and gives you a seamless, skin-like finish that never looks cakey or settles into fine lines (yay). This 2-in-1 complexion stick is ideal for those who love natural, skin-like foundation but want simple coverage you can easily control. I use this mostly for even out redness around my nose, mouth and lighten the corners of my eyes. I also add a swipe under my cheek contour to add more definition and contrast.
BTW, if you want to brighten and color correct under your eyes, do yourself the BIGGEST favor and get the Under Eye Genius by BeautyPie. (You’ll thank me later!)
Are you ready for your skin to really glow and feel amazing again? Here’s my simple and effective beauty and skincare solutions!
Lawless The Dreamy Dozen – Volume 2
While I love a good bold eye every now and then, during the summer I gravitate toward softer, more natural eye looks—and the Lawless Dreamy Dozen Volume 2 Palette delivers beautifully. This clean, talc-free palette is full of warm, flattering neutrals that work on every skin tone and age.
The formulas are highly pigmented, buttery and blendable, which makes application totally foolproof. A soft wash of a neutral matte in the crease and a little shimmer on the lid can do wonders for brightening the eyes and adding that subtle definition that makes you look gorge and youthful but not overly made-up.
It’s amazing how just a touch of soft, natural color around the eyes can lift your entire face and help create that youthful, glowy look with ease.
remember… less is more
Ultimately, a youthful summer glow isn’t about piling on products, it’s about choosing the right ones. These three staples have helped me embrace a more minimal, glow-focused routine that feels modern, fresh, and completely wearable at any age.
It’s not ever about hiding behind makeup…it’s about using it to enhance what’s already there. With the right primer, a light touch of an amazing concealer + foundation duo, and a few sweeps of flattering eyeshadow, you can look and feel radiant, confident, and perfectly put together in five minutes or less.
So go ahead—give these glowing summer staples a try, and let your summer beauty routine be as effortless as your favorite sundress.
