Hold on, I just found out how to achieve the simplest, most effortless-looking summer makeup.

Hold on, I just found out how to achieve the simplest, most effortless-looking summer makeup.

      As a certified makeup artist and beauty editor, I often find myself spending hours at Boots, testing various blushers and lipsticks, unsure of which shades look best on me. I know I’m not alone in this struggle, as my friends frequently express the same dilemma. While I could research the best shades for my complexion, I've discovered a simpler solution. Allow me to introduce you to pH makeup.

      Recently, numerous brands have been rolling out pH makeup formulas that interact with your skin to produce a personalized finish. I've been trying out some of the top pH makeup products available and have consulted with a professional makeup artist to gain insight into why you might want to incorporate pH makeup into your daily routine. Read on for more information...

      Deputy beauty editor Grace Lindsay is wearing the Wonderskin pHlush Stick and the HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil.

      What Is pH Makeup, and How Does It Work?

      “The way pH makeup functions is by reacting with the moisture on your skin or lips, resulting in a lovely rosy flush or lip stain that slightly adjusts to the wearer,” explains Naima Bremer, global artistry ambassador for Fenty Beauty. “This produces a fresh, naturally appearing finish that feels customized.”

      “One of the aspects I appreciate most about pH makeup is how accessible it makes beauty. Not everyone wants to spend hours figuring out undertones or standing in front of a selection trying to decide among multiple shades. pH products are fantastic because they eliminate the guesswork and provide that healthy, natural-looking glow ideal for everyday wear.”

      The Best pH Makeup Products, Tried & Tested

      1. Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Stick

      Pros: Easy to apply; creamy formula; dewy finish

      Cons: Slightly higher price

      If you're in search of a natural, everyday blush, you can't go wrong with this cream stick from Dior. Since acquiring it, I've worn it daily because it looks stunning and applies effortlessly. There are 13 shades available, with each formula reacting to your skin's pH to produce either a cool pink or warm coral undertone. I use the shade Rosewood, which appears as a gentle, pink tint on my cheeks, perfect for a "no makeup" makeup look. The dewy finish is simply gorgeous.

      2. Fenty Beauty Match Stix Colour Adaptive Cheek & Lip Stick

      Pros: Usable on both lips and cheeks; cooling, jelly-like formula

      Cons: More of a bold statement compared to the previous option

      For a more striking makeup look, Fenty Beauty is the way to go. I enjoy utilizing this stick to add a vibrant splash of color to my cheeks or lips. It boasts a cooling, almost jelly-like texture that imparts a beautiful sheen to the skin, and features color shift technology for a personalized rosy glow. I foresee using this throughout the summer.

      3. Wonderskin pHlush Stick

      Pros: Nourishing formula; natural, dewy finish

      Cons: Larger size can be a bit challenging for lip application

      Another multi-use stick I adore is the Wonderskin pHlush Stick. This stick is creamier and less jelly-like than the previous one and can be applied to both lips and cheeks; however, due to the larger applicator, I personally find it easier for blush application. It incorporates pH-adjusting pigment technology for a custom flush that looks effortlessly beautiful. I appreciate that it contains jojoba, castor, and sunflower seed oils, shea butter, and niacinamide, which help make my cheeks look plump and healthy.

      4. HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil

      Pros: Available in various shades (including clear); hydrating, non-sticky formula

      Cons: More of a natural finish

      If you need a specific lip product, allow me to introduce the HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil. I'm a big fan of lip oils, and this has quickly become one of my favorites. The texture is ideal—not greasy yet incredibly hydrating with a subtle shine. Additionally, the tinted formula adapts into a unique color upon application, achieving that “your lips but better” look that's often elusive. I have literally *no complaints*.

      5. Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint

      Pros: Long-lasting; refreshing, jelly-like formula

      Cons: Needs to be blended quickly

      You may have seen this product trending on TikTok, and for good reason. The viral "jelly" blush delivers an impressive pop of color to the cheeks; I frequently get asked about the blush I’m wearing when I use it. I often reach for this during the summer because the cooling jelly texture is refreshing to apply. It is a stain, so I'd recommend blending it promptly, but the good news is it lasts all day. The shades vary on different people thanks to the pH technology, but they consistently provide a stunning, watercolor-like finish.

      6. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Blush Balm Lip Tint

      This

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Hold on, I just found out how to achieve the simplest, most effortless-looking summer makeup.

I will never choose any other product again.