Summer Beauty Favourites | Zaf & Friends

To say it’s been a while would probably be the biggest understatement of the year, but saying that, I am back and pushing myself into a regular posting schedule! Expect some new changes on here, including a new shop section, maybe a few newsletters and updates on current sewing projects. I’m excited to really develop this website into my own little corner of the internet and share some fun things that I’m working on or loving.

Today I’m kicking off with some of my summer beauty faves! I’ve been trying out a few new products lately - especially with the UK’s weird mini-heatwaves that seem to pop up every few weeks. I’ve definitely had to switch things up and adapt my makeup routine to get that lovely summer glow (or at least make myself look dewy rather than sweaty).

I’ve posted a quick summer makeup get ready with me over on reels too, if you want to see some of these products in action!

My Summer Beauty Faves

L’Oreal True Match Plumping Tinted Serum in Shade Tan-Deep

This has been my go-to skin tint for the past few months, and I keep coming back to it for a few solid reasons. First, it’s super hydrating, my skin absolutely loved it during the winter when it was drier, and even now, it still feels great without being heavy. It’s also incredibly lightweight and breathable, which makes it perfect for warmer weather. And for something marketed as a skin tint, the coverage is actually kind of insane, I would compare it a medium coverage foundation.

The only downside is the shade range.Now that I’ve tanned, the shade I’ve been using feels too light, but the next one up is way too dark, so I’m stuck in that annoying in-between but it’s nothing a big brush and bronzer can’t solve.

NYX Buttermelt Bronzer in Butta Dayz

I think this might be my best summer find. I’ve been obsessed with using this bronzer as a blusher - or as the TikTok girlies call it, a blonzer. The deep red tone is absolutely stunning on darker skin tones, and those little flecks of gold shimmer catch the light just enough without being too much. I usually swirl it on with a fluffy brush across my cheeks and up towards my temples, and it gives the most beautiful sun-kissed glow.

The formula is so smooth, it glides on like butter and blends out effortlessly. It also wears really well throughout the day, even in the heat, which is a big win for me. And lastly (not that it really matters, but still), it smells divine.

Glossier Cloud Paint in Storm

I have to admit, I’m very, very late to the Glossier trend. I’ve had a few of their lip balms, which I adore, but everything else always felt like that no-makeup kind of makeup - and definitely not something I’d spend over £15 on.

That said, I saw this blush on deeper skin tones and it looked stunning. It has that sun-kissed, almost sun-burnt vibe that’s so perfect for summer. It’s a similar shade to the NYX bronzer I love, but this one has a slight orange hue that gives it a warmer, more summery feel. It’s also very pigmented, so a little really does go a long way.

Sometimes I even dab it on my lips for a quick, natural flush of colour when I’m in a rush.

Primark Juicy Gloss in Cherry

I’ve unfortunately fallen victim to picking up any cute-looking lip product in Primark every time I go in. It's a very bad (but kind of fun) habit. Most of the time, it’s a hit or miss, but the Juicy Gloss range has to be my favourite so far.

It ticks all the boxes for a good Y2K-style gloss; the perfect sized tube, an insanely good smell, sparkles, and a super glossy finish. But what sets it apart is that it’s not sticky at all, which I love. It feels light on the lips, actually hydrating, and just really comfortable to wear.

I’m obsessed with the shade I picked up, it’s a soft red-pink tint that looks so good with a brown lip liner. I also have the peach one from the same range, and it’s the prettiest peachy-toned gloss with glitter.

The best part about this is that it is only £1.50!

Barry M Lip Liner in Chocolate

This lip liner is something that could never be replaced from my makeup routine - no matter the season. I don’t use this just as a lipliner, but I use it as an eyeliner, I love doing my inner eye point with this too and even for contour if I’m really in a pinch.

It is the most complimentary brown shade for those with similar skin tones to mine. It isn’t too harsh and looks incredible with pretty much all lip products.

I love using it alongside the Primark Juicy Gloss for the perfect lip combo, but also love using it my Glossier lip balms in both Fig and Black Cherry this summer.

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