As beauty editors, our beauty power rankings are always shifting, but the stakes feel a lot higher during the summer months. Whether you’re loving the above-average temps or counting the days until fall equinox, it’s undeniable that this weather is perfect for putting new products to the test. A product might be good, but is it summer good? Withstanding summertime sweatiness is the ultimate performance indicator and as we tested July’s buzziest beauty launches, these products rose to the challenge, earning the summer stamp of approval. Keep reading for the July 2022 releases that our beauty team wore while we (tried to) beat the heat.
Adi Giesy, Beauty Assistant
Adi wearing Dior's Forever Natural Velvet Foundation.
Photo: Courtesy of Adi Giesy
Forever Natural Velvet Foundation
When it comes to complexion products I don’t typically reach for a powder, but I have been loving this transfer-proof tint. It has a buildable matte finish, but it feels super light on my skin. I like to apply a light layer with a powder brush and go back in with a sponge to give more coverage in target areas.
Polypeptide-121 Future Cream
Peptides and ceramides are must-have ingredients for me in any moisturizer. As someone who constantly battles eczema flare-ups, I give my skin barrier all the love it can get. This formula includes anti-aging properties as an added bonus.
Lip Treat
I’m in what I'm calling my glossy-lip era. Anything that gives hydration and shine gets my attention. I love how these balms also give a subtle hint of color. If you, like me, are not a fan of a full-pigment lipstick, these are for you.
Sumiko Wilson, Beauty Fellow
Sumiko wearing Zeyl Beauty's Glow To Bed With Me Undereye Eraser Eye Mask.
Photo: Courtesy of Sumiko Wilson
Under Eye Eraser Eye Mask
If you didn’t get the memo, single-use eye masks are out. These reusable, outer space-inspired eye masks are infused with a hearty dose of collagen to plump sleepy under eyes while you snooze. I paired it with the brand's Valerian root-infused Snooze Serum and woke up looking like I got a solid 10 hours of sleep (even though I got five hours max).
Legally Blonde Law School Prep Kit
I could wax poetic about the quality of Luxy extensions for hours—seriously. I first tried their clip-ins last summer and was shocked by their next-level look and feel. Their extensions are soft, dense, and glossy without dipping into synthetic-esque levels of shininess. One year later, they’re just as good as the first day I clipped them in. The 16-inch ponytail that comes in this Legally Blonde-inspired kit is just as good. And as someone who has used drawstring ponytails for years (don’t judge me), I love how this pony’s wraparound closure gives it a more natural, discrete look. The kit also comes with hair ties, a brush, a notebook, and a pen to complete your Elle Woods cosplay.
The Sunscreen
For the most part, when I think of mineral sunscreen, I immediately think of a white cast. As I was massaging this one on top of my moisturizer, I was a bit worried by the initial purple-white tint that it left behind—it was momentarily giving Veruca Salt from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. But once I gave it a bit of time to dry down, I was very, very impressed. It took a few minutes, but once it settled into my skin, it was completely sheer, which earns it a gold star in my book (and a permanent spot in my SPF rotation).