And so it’s summer. Finally. It’s the first summer I can remember with absolutely no travel plans. No birthday agenda. And no hanging out at local spots sipping rosé alfresco. Well, not yet. Quarantine has provided plenty of time to discover and explore new favorites. Let’s begin with recent finds that have been keeping my skin and hair looking especially fresh in the warmer weather. Also, since my pores can be particularly overzealous this time of year and the hair is questionable after 4 haircuts I’ve given myself, I am realizing it’s much harder to pick summer favorites vs. any other season.
Malin+Goetz Resurfacing Face Serum
Adding to the brand’s Detox Mask, which I already consider a staple, the new Resurfacing Face Serum joins my list of new favorites. This lightweight treatment step is the most impressive launch in quite some time. If you’re looking for a multi-tasking and effective formula to tackle uneven tone, enlarged pores, and hyperpigmentation, this one successfully combats all the above. It’s an elegant blend of exfoliating Glycolic and Lactic Acids, brightening Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), pore refining Niacinamide, and antioxidant-rich Phytic Acid. Read: one of the best glow boosting medleys on my shelf. The quick absorbing texture layers great under my moisturizer and fits seamlessly into any AM and PM regimen. Just be sure to wear broad spectrum SPF during the day as all the resurfacing action makes the skin more susceptible to UV damage. $70 (30ml) at malinandgoetz.com
Dr. Dennis Gross Clarifying Mask
I hadn’t even begun to mourn the unexpected departure of the Clarifying Colloidal Sulfur Mask when Dr. Dennis Gross low key replaced it with a new and improved formula. The freshly updated Clarifying Mask is back in a travel friendly tube as part of the DRx Blemish Solutions line up. Here’s the real plot twist: the new version is an overnight leave-on formula! The inci list boasts 5% Sulfur as an active ingredient so you can expect the deep pore cleansing and tightening effect. Bear in mind, however, that the subtle scent does linger (which luckily doesn’t bother me). If you worry that an overnight clay mask will be messy, it works as a cream slash paste that doesn’t transfer so your pillowcase is safe. I wish the tube were a tad bigger but oh well, can’t have it all. $28 (30ml) at sephora.com
Jordan Samuel Skincare Performance Eye Gel
Here’s the thing: you’re either an eye gel person or you aren’t. And even if you are, finding a user-friendly gel texture for around the eye, is, well, tricky. The Jordan Samuel Skin Performance Eye Gel has a slightly thicker gel texture that melts into almost-liquid upon contact with the skin. It takes just a minute to absorb and once it does, it keeps the delicate skin perked up and hydrated. More importantly, it doesn’t pill, which is my biggest issue with most gel formulas. It’s packed with peptides, Green Tea, Caffeine, and Golden Chamomile Extracts to firm and protect against environmental aggressors. The best part? It comes in a pump, and at 30ml, is twice the size of industry standard. $38 at jordansamuelskin.com
Briogeo Avocado + Kiwi Mega Moisture Superfoods Hair Mask
A true Leo takes pride in his hair. And while I don’t mind the grey temples (it adds character, no?), I do mind the frizz and dryness, both of which can be too common during the summer months. The new Avocado + Kiwi Hair Mask has quickly become my go-to conditioner. Since adding it to my product repertoire, my hair has been feeling nourished and looking glossy. The whipped creamy solution works in minutes as the plant butters, oils, and extracts replenish any loss in moisture without weighing down my hair. It also smells like juicy gummy bears, which is my kind of aromatherapy. $36 (8oz) at sephora.com
Kinkō Microbiomix™ Aluminum-Free Deodorant
Deodorant has become its own category in the beauty space and countless versions of ‘clean’ are currently available. If you’re looking for an aluminum-free formula that also doesn’t contain oils (no shade to you, coconut oil) or baking soda, check out Kinkō (which means ‘safe’ in Japanese). This newcomer brand offers two options: Unscented and Sakura Rose, both of which feature a patented blend of pre and postbiotics to maintain a healthy microbiome environment on the skin. The unique formula balances your skin’s pH and prevents the formation of bacteria that cause odor. If you’re new to roll-on deodorants, they’re liquid so they do take a minute to dry. Kinko is not drippy and absorbs fairly quickly. I’ve been testing them on my 5 mile morning hikes, on active days doing yard work, and going about my daily routine — my underarms have stayed dry and odorless. Don’t shoot the messenger but they are a little pricey. $16 (50ml) hsn.com
