Derms & Plastic Surgeons Share 3 Secret Weapons For Stronger Skin

Summer is synonymous with showing some skin. But the challenge is always above the shoulders—how do you keep your face looking fresh while still protected? We’ve got you covered. Hit the shore with beach-friendly makeup that shields against harmful sun rays and stays strong in the water. With natural looks ranging from flushed to dewy, here’s how to get that radiant glow this season.

Note: Remember to bring a hat on your summer excursions and wear a broad spectrum SPF throughout sun exposure. And, always apply sunscreen to your face BEFORE creating these beach looks.

Cherry Flush

1. Start off by priming your complexion with the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder. True to its name, the petal-soft formula blurs, reduces texture, and balances skin with sheer coverage. You’ll radiate a naturally glowing, hydrated complexion at the beach, leaving everyone wondering how your skin stays flawless as you splash around.

2. We call this look Cherry Flush for a reason. Charlotte Tilbury’s Unreal Blush Healthy Glow Stick in Cherry Glow takes center stage, and by that we mean center of your face. Swipe the luminous, deep cherry-colored formula across your cheekbones and bridge of your nose. Blend and build for a soft-focus flush even the summer sun can’t replicate.

3. While cherry cheeks are the main focus, aim to make your eyes pop with fluttery, waterproof lashes. After curling, apply Nudestix Vegan Splashproof Mascara to keep eyes defined all day.

4. Finish the look with a tap of berry-hued gloss to pull everything together. We like the MIXIK Glossy Lip Serum in the shade Wild Raspberry. The ultra-hydrating pigment drenches lips in sheer red color, keeping skin plump and nourished thanks to its oil-blend formula.

Sunkissed Glow

1. This look is all about an effortless bronze, no sun required. Start with Natasha Denona’s Hy-Gen Bronze Energizing & Hydrating Primer Serum, a multitasking formula that works as both serum and primer. Apply 3 to 4 drops daily as a serum for an all-over glow or use it under makeup for a smooth, radiant base. The silky texture melts into skin with micro light-reflecting pearls that bronze up lighter tones and enhance radiance on deeper complexions.

2. Add extra warmth with Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer. The rich shades and “photoluminescent technology” allow you to create buildable dimension with a soft focus finish that makes it look like you’ve been laying out all season.

3. A proper bronze would be incomplete without a little flush peeking through. Go for a vibrant, peachy-pink shade like Chantecaille’s Cheek Gelee in the shade Euphoric to top off your sunkissed complexion.

4. Lastly, swipe on a high-shine lip oil that’ll effortlessly take you from the beach to the boardwalk. RMS Beauty’s Legendary Lip Oil in the shade Amber imparts rosy-caramel glossiness to lips that’ll tie the look together.

All-Over Dewiness

1. The key to a dewy look starts at the base (aka your complexion) and this serum gets you there in just a few drops. Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Glow Serum hydrates, plumps, and smooths for a fresh, radiant finish. Use it as a primer or wear alone to reveal your natural-looking dewiness.

2. A silky liquid blush is perfect for enhancing dewy skin, giving you a natural, lit-from-within glow with just the right pop of color. Hourglass Unreal Liquid Blush in the shade Scene will get you there. Its lightweight, serum-like formula hydrates and lifts with hyaluronic acid, while the precision dropper lets you customize your perfect glow – from a subtle wash to a vibrant pop of warm pink color.

3. The key to this look is locking in that all-day dew. The Nudestix Dewy Barrier Hydrating Stick is like an on-call drink of water for your skin. It’s portable, pocket-sized, and perfect for quick, skin-quenching touch-ups. Just dot it on to refresh, rehydrate, and keep your glow going strong.

4. Finish off the look with dewy lips to match. Facile’s Lip Jelly in Champagne delivers a hint of shimmer and a juicy, never-sticky shine while hydrating and plumping with peptides and vitamin E. Just swipe on for soft, smooth lips that feel as good as they look.

Illustrations by Megan Badilla

Turn up the brightness! Celebrity skincare pro Vanessa Lee of The Things We Do shared the surprising ways you might be triggering melasma — and how to prevent it. 

The medical aesthetic provider, who keeps Kim, Kourtney, and Khloé Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Jessica Alba, Kate Hudson, and Gabrielle Union, glowing, tells ET that certain nutritious foods might be doing more harm than good if you’re prone to dark spots. 

“In Chinese medicine, melasma is often linked to internal imbalances, particularly related to digestion and circulation. A common, but overlooked trigger is eating too many cold, raw foods like smoothies, salads, and iced drinks. These can weaken the spleen and stomach qi, leading to dampness and stagnation in the body, which manifests as discoloration on the face,” she explains.

Other healthy habits that could actually be self-sabotaging? “Elevated body temperature, even when you’re not in direct sun is a lesser-known culprit that is just as impactful. … Saunas, hot yoga, or intense workouts can raise internal heat, which stimulates melanocyte activity and darkens pigment,” the skin guru notes.

If the damage has already been done, don’t sweat it — in more ways than one — thanks to the PicoSure Pro device at Lee’s studio at The Row in Los Angeles, California. 

How it works: “The laser uses ultra-short bursts of energy, called acoustic or pressure waves, to fragment pigment deep in the skin without generating heat or injuring the surface. Unlike lasers or microneedling that rely on controlled injury and skin resurfacing, this method keeps the skin barrier intact.”

“I had it done personally and was amazed by how quickly my sunspots faded, how smooth my skin looked, and how there was absolutely no downtime,” the founder explains. 

In addition to the getting the treatment done, Lee suggests making subtle changes to your everyday routine for a radiant complexion.

“To prevent heat-induced melasma, use a portable fan or our gel-bead cooling mask and high frequency wand. … For melasma flare-ups within, add variety to your diet with warm, cooked foods and incorporate ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, or lightly cooked greens to help support healthy blood flow and balance.”

Finally, make sure your skin is protected at all times with both proper products and accessories. 

“Makeup with built-in sun protection, like blush and lip gloss, makes sun care easier and more seamless, so it becomes a habit, not a hassle,” the cosmetic RN shares.

“Wearing UV blocking sunglasses is also just as important. … UV exposure around the eyes doesn’t just damage vision, it can also intensify pigmentation in the surrounding skin,” she adds. 

And don’t skimp on the rest of your body.

“The neck, chest, and hands are sun-exposed daily and are often the first to show signs of aging and discoloration. … Sun gloves, especially while driving, are a must to prevent pigmentation,” the certified Eastern face reader notes. 

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Protect the skin you’re in! Celebrity facialist Shani Darden has helped Jessica Alba, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Chrissy Teigen, Kelly Rowland, Shay Mitchell, Emmy Rossum and more stars maintain radiant complexions all year long, and now she’s telling ET her secrets for achieving a healthy summer glow — without any sun damage.

As the long, warm days provide more opportunities to relax, the aesthetician recommends taking the same approach with your skincare regimen.

“Summer is a good time to simplify your routine. Less is more. … It’s just about being intentional and using the right products,” she explains.

While you might assume certain actives don’t make the cut, think again, thanks to her latest formula launch. 

“Retinol Reform with 1% Encapsulated Retinol can be used year-round — even in the summer — as long as you’re diligent about sunscreen and don’t spend a lot of time in the sun. … It has an advanced delivery system that allows us to introduce 1% retinol, while still being gentle,” Darden shares.

Once you’ve started incorporating it at night, expect to see an improvement in skin tone evenness, brightness, texture, smoothness, and elasticity, as well as a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.  

Her other must-haves: “Always wear SPF during the day and reapply it every 2 hours. …  I love Supergoop’s Play Everyday, which is an SPF 50. … You also may need to switch to a lighter moisturizer, such as my Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer. It’s fast absorbing with hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin without causing any congestion.”

In addition to staying consistent with skincare essentials, Darden recommends investing in accessories to keep your skin healthy in the warm temperatures.

“Generally, I see more congestion, breakouts, and sun damage in the summer. The combination of heat and sweat can lead to a lot of congestion overall, which contributes to breakouts, and spending more time outdoors can intensify hyperpigmentation due to UV exposure,” she notes.

To combat these concerns, Darden says, “A wide brim hat is essential when you’re outside, but you have to make sure you’re keeping your face cool too. I always use a mini portable fan, and UV visors are incredible for protecting your face as well. It all helps.”

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Wakey, wakey! It’s Monday! Time to rise, shine, and be productive! Today we should probably discuss the lack of SPF in lip products or the fact we don’t have a lot of SPF lip products. It’s like we think about it a lot but our lips are just as vulnerable as the skin on our faces when it comes to being out in the sun. Exposure to the sun can increase premature aging that’s why protecting them is super important.

I always find SPF in lip balms, glosses, and lipsticks lacking. We either get a really dose of SPF 15, we don’t get it at all, or we get a formula that’s waxy and uncomfortable to wear. Prequel Lip Visor Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA++++ is a new lip balm that not only seals in moisture and hydrates but also, protects the delicate skin of your lips with a SPF 30. This apparently has the consistency of a gloss and adds shine and even color if you purchase the rose shade. But does it taste like SPF? I totally know what you mean! I always find lips products with SPF have a funky flavor but this is flavored with mint for a refreshing scent and flavor.

I haven’t tried it yet but it was making the rounds on Tiktok and I got curious enough to purchase a tube. I’ll let you know what I think! But if you’ve been searching for an lip product with a high level of SPF maybe Prequel Lip Visor Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 PA++++ will fit the bill!

How do you protect your lips?

Where to buy

Prequel

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Sun damage isn’t just reserved for beach days, it’s woven into the everyday—your morning commute, dog walk, even that spot by the window. Now skin protection is more than a summer add-on; it’s a daily ritual.

In a world where we’re more and more aware of sun damage, it’s only natural for our beauty routines to evolve. Lucky for us, now sun protection doesn’t have to be an added step. Meet the new wave of SPF-infused makeup.

Today’s SPF makeup does more than pull double duty. It blends seamlessly, nourishes deeply, and protects powerfully—without the chalkiness or white cast of the past. Here’s how you can build a full face of makeup with SPF protection built in.

Skin tint

The perfect starting point. Think: a lightweight base that evens tone, boosts hydration, and provides a breathable layer of protection—all without looking like you’re wearing anything at all.

Beautylish recommends:

Eye cream

The delicate eye area is often overlooked but particularly vulnerable to UV damage. A protective eye cream not only protects this sensitive area but also helps hydrate and brighten.

Beautylish recommends:

Blush

A flush of color that blends like a dream, gives you that healthy post-vacation look, and guards your skin? Consider us sold.

Beautylish recommends:

Highlighter/all-over glow

Your glow, upgraded. Apply it all over for subtle radiance or hit the high points for extra luminosity. Either way, your glow comes with an extra layer of defense.

Beautylish recommends:

Lip balm

Fun fact: the skin on your lips is thinner than the rest of your face and often the first to burn. Cue SPF-infused lip balms that you’ll actually enjoy reapplying throughout the day.

Beautylish recommends:

Setting powder or touch-up SPF

A powder SPF is your secret weapon for controlling mid-day shine while topping off your protection.

Beautylish recommends:

Summer’s here, and so is your friendly reminder to wear your SPF. Whether you’re beach-bound, hiking through the heat, or just grabbing iced coffee in the sun, sunscreen should be your everyday essential. From sheer face favorites to body sprays you’ll actually want to reapply, this is our master list of top picks that make sun protection feel like a treat, not a chore.

Best skincare-infused SPF:

Holifrog Solar Daily Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 , $36

This lightweight, skincare-forward mineral SPF combines sun protection with hydrating, antioxidant-rich ingredients for daily use. It blends easily into all skin tones with no greasiness and a smooth, semi-matte finish. Think of it as your moisturizer, sunscreen, and skin barrier support all in one.

Best no-mess SPF:

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40 , $32

Clear, weightless, and totally invisible—this swipe-on SPF stick is perfect for reapplying on the go. Its travel-friendly size fits in your bag or pocket, and it glides on smoothly without smudging your makeup. Zero white cast, zero scent, and 100% ready for sunshine.

Best SPF to wear under makeup:

Minu Brightening Sunscreen Minerals SPF 30 Gel-Cream , $58

Part sunscreen, part skincare, and part makeup primer, this multitasking mineral formula does it all. A sheer tint enhances your natural glow while niacinamide, peptides, and antioxidants brighten, calm, and hydrate. It’s a luxe, luminous base for anyone who wants protection and radiance under makeup (or alone).

Best tinted moisturizer with SPF:

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench® Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Hyaluronic Sheer Tint Moisturizer , $56

Most tinted moisturizers only offer around SPF 15 to 30, but this one delivers heavyweight protection with light-as-air, sheer coverage. The cream-to-water formula is infused with 30% Hyaluronic Acid Complex for deep hydration and a skin-smoothing finish. Its adaptable tint blends effortlessly into all skin tones for a natural, even glow.

Best SPF for face and body:

Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 , $18.99

Made by women of color for people of color, this moisturizing sunscreen protects all skin tones against sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines, without leaving behind a chalky white cast. Jojoba, avocado, and cacao nourish the skin while offering sheer, everyday protection for face and body. Use it under makeup or solo for that no-white-residue glow.

Best spray-on SPF:

bask Non-Aerosol SPF 30 Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Spray , $28

Want effortless coverage? Bask makes it easy with this ultra-sheer mineral spray that goes on dry and blends seamlessly into skin, no ghostly white cast in sight. The bottle sprays at any angle (even upside down!) and leaves your body hydrated, not sticky, thanks to soothing cucumber and skin-loving glycerin.

Best water-resistant SPF for the face:

bask Daily Invisible Gel SPF 40 , $28

If you’re looking for a sunscreen that actually holds up during sweat or swim, this one’s got you covered—literally. With 80 minutes of water-and sweat-resistant protection, this weightless gel formula stays put while keeping skin smooth, hydrated, and shine-free. It blends invisibly into all skin tones (and facial hair), making it perfect for beach days, workouts, or just humid summer life.

Best SPF with a Glow:

Supergoop! Glow Oil SPF 50 , $40

A radiant, glossy glow plus SPF? Yes, really. This body oil defies beauty norms by combining high-level sun protection (SPF 50!!) with a silky, nourishing finish that leaves skin looking sun-kissed and dewy. Packed with argan, grapeseed, and meadowfoam seed oils, it’s water-and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it your ultimate beach (or poolside) glow-up.

Illustrations by Megan Badilla