Summer 2026 Beauty Heroes: Sali Hughes' Top Cool Picks 2026

Sali Hughes' summer 2026 beauty heroes reveal the best lightweight products for hot weather. As temperatures soared, she turned to sheer tints and fluid moisturizers to stay comfortable. Here are her top picks for beating the heat without sacrificing style.

Refy Skin Base: The Ultimate Sheer Face Tint

The first standout is Refy's Skin Base (£30), a sheer face tint so thin and lightweight it's all Sali could bear to wear since July. Suitable for all skin types, this product offers a dewy finish that's perfect for summer. While it's not for those who prefer matte looks, its breathable texture feels almost imperceptible on the skin.

Why It Works in High Heat

In extreme humidity, heavy makeup can feel suffocating. Refy's Skin Base provides just enough coverage to even out skin tone without clogging pores. Sali notes that it looks unmistakably dewy, so if you're devoted to matte, this isn't for you. But for a juicy, fresh-faced look, it's a game-changer.

Prequel Half & Half Fluid Moisturizer: Lightweight Hydration

Moisturizer is another step that humidity forced Sali to downsize. Heavy creams became as appealing as a 5km parkrun, so she switched to lighter liquids. The Prequel Half & Half Fluid Moisturizer (£28) has been a godsend. Recently launched in the UK, this fluid moisturizer quenches skin's thirst without the weight.

Comparing Heavy Creams vs. Fluid Moisturizers

Key Takeaways for Hot-Weather Beauty

• Opt for sheer tints instead of full-coverage foundations to let skin breathe.
• Choose fluid moisturizers over heavy creams to prevent clogged pores and discomfort.
• Embrace a dewy finish; it's more forgiving in high temperatures.
• Layer concealer only where needed to maintain a natural look.

Other Must-Have Products from Sali's List

Beyond these two heroes, Sali highlights other products that performed exceptionally well during the scorching summer. From setting sprays to cooling mists, each item was chosen for its ability to withstand sweat and humidity.

Cooling Mists and Setting Sprays

To keep makeup in place, Sali recommends a refreshing setting spray that doubles as a hydrating mist. This helps lock in your look while providing an instant cooling effect—essential for those 30°C days.

Oil-Free Sunscreens

Sun protection is non-negotiable, even in the heat. Sali suggests oil-free sunscreens that offer high SPF without leaving a greasy residue. These formulas blend seamlessly under makeup and won't cause breakouts.

FAQ

Best Products We’ve Tested and Rated

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of exterior paint wood desert climate, stall mats horses, rubber flooring decking, cordless battery pressure washer, and thermal lawnmower. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of cordless pressure washer, robot lawn mower wireless, solar outdoor security lights motion sensors, and sectional. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.