The Essential 12 Beauty Products to Buy This Summer, as Recommended by Our Experts

      I could easily count on one hand the people from whom I would seek beauty advice. After years of working in the industry, I’ve become quite skeptical of trending products, brands, and fads, opting to test items myself before sharing my insights. However, at Who What Wear UK, we boast an incredibly knowledgeable network of contributing editors, and honestly? Their recommendations quickly reach the top of my must-try list. With summer in full swing and my beauty routine needing a refresh, I sought to discover which products our resident editors stand by for the warmer months—ranging from SPF to multifunctional makeup and holiday fragrances that can transport you with just a single spray. It’s not every day that you get a glimpse into the makeup bags of some of your favorite brand founders and creators, so I was genuinely excited to write this article. I reached out to some of the major influencers in today’s beauty scene and asked them to share their must-have summer beauty products for 2026. Below, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of summer beauty essentials that are as effective as they are stunning. I strongly recommend you keep scrolling, but be warned: you might end up wanting to add everything to your cart…

      The Best Summer Beauty Products of 2026, Recommended by Experts

      Victoria Magrath, Makeup Brand Founder and Content Creator

      As the founder of byfrow Beauty, Victoria Magrath is well-acquainted with what makes a beauty product desirable. With experience working alongside some of the industry's biggest names, such as Dyson, Medik8, and Armani Beauty, I trust her instincts when it comes to makeup, skincare, haircare, and fragrance recommendations. It’s no surprise that her favorite summer beauty items have already found a place in my own makeup bag.

      1. Clé De Peau Beauté UV Protective Cream SPF50

      "I’ve mentioned this product many times, but it remains my must-have," Magrath shares. "This silky, creamy SPF50 provides a lovely glow to the skin without any makeup, and it works beautifully under makeup as well. I’ve never found an SPF I prefer more than this."

      2. byfrow Hue Glazing Balm SPF50

      "I may be a bit biased, but our new byfrow Hue Glazing Balms are the ultimate summer product. They offer lips and cheeks a glossy, watercolor wash of color while providing SPF50 protection. Plus, they come in three summery shades suitable for everyone. It’s the easiest way to add color while keeping your skin protected this summer."

      3. Jo Malone London Sea Salt and Bergamot Fragrance

      "I got to try this Jo Malone London scent during a trip to Cornwall for its launch, and I’ve worn it constantly since. It’s zesty, fruity, salty, and fresh: the perfect summer fragrance. If you enjoy the brand’s classic Wood Sage and Sea Salt Cologne, you will love this one. I’m completely hooked."

      Sharmadean Reid, Entrepreneur and Author

      When Sharmadean Reid MBE suggests a beauty product, I pay attention. As an author, innovator, entrepreneur, and founder of the bath product brand 39BC, her summer beauty tips emphasize a slower pace. "I’ve spent the last few weeks preparing for my trip to Jamaica, which primarily involves refining my packing list," Reid mentions. "I’m a firm advocate for hand luggage only. I relish the challenge of seeing how little I can pack while still bringing everything I need." The only reason I’m checking a suitcase this year is that it’s filled with books. I’ve been compiling a reading list for research on our next collection at 39BC, and it turns out anthropology books weigh more than bikinis. With such a minimalist travel approach, every product has to justify its inclusion. Everything I bring has been rigorously tested and serves a specific purpose."

      Besides her favorite Eadem lip balm (which we’re eagerly waiting to arrive in the UK), these are the three summer beauty products Reid can't live without.

      1. Biore UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Sunscreen SPF50

      "A few years ago, I suffered from significant sunburn in Crete. I had occasionally used sunscreen on trips, but never consistently. The experience led me to dive deep into research about UV damage and melanin, and I realized that the belief that Black people don’t need sunscreen is a stubborn myth. Now, I take it seriously and apply sunscreen multiple times a day. For my face, I alternate between this Biore SPF and SunSolveMD, depending on the day. Both are lightweight, absorb into the skin, and don’t leave an ashy or greasy finish."

      2. CeraVe Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen SPF50

      "For my body, I use this CeraVe Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen or Alta Marea La Seta."

      3. Rollr Vetiver on Green Aventurine Gemstone Deodorant

      "In the summer