Vicki’s April Beauty Faves

The sun is finally out and I couldn’t be happier. When it comes to longer days, I find myself opting for lighter coverage with an emphasis on healthy glowing skin, sun-safe formulas and sweat-proof products. Here are some of the products I discovered in April that will become part of my summer rotation. –Vicki Duong

essence. While most of us keep our eye makeup to a minimum, during hot weather ensure a budgeproof base is essential to combat sweat and excess oil. The new Prime Like A Boss ($5) from Essense offers a universal finish that not only intensifies whatever shadows are laid atop it, but also creates a moisture-resistant base that combats fallout and creasing.

drunk elephant. More time spent in the sun can leave our skin feeling a bit parched and in need of a serious hydration boost. Fret not, with Drunk Elephant’s newest eye serum ($84) boasting a retinol formulation that targets dryness, fine lines and volume. Just don’t forget to be liberal with the SPF, retinol will leave you more sensitive to the sun!

gold bond. Put the beauty in beauty sleep when you lather up in Gold Bond’s Overnight Body Lotion ($15) , an intensely hydrating formula that treats your skin while you catch your z’s. With hyaluronic acid to lock in suppleness, this lotion is formulated to not stain your sheets while a soft lavender scent helps you doze off in comfort and wake-up to healthier skin.

estée lauder. One of our favorite full-coverage foundation is made more versatile with a skin-tint version ideal for low maintenance days. The Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear Makeup ($64) provides some sun protection with a SPF 19 while the lightweight formula is flexible enough to sheer out to create an ideal finish on a multitude of skintones. Think of it as your skin, but better.

origins. Fighting the effects of excess oily skin and natural pollutants is made effortless with the Clear Improvements mask ($40) from Origins. With a combo of bamboo charcoal and China clay, this clean beauty mask helps flush out environmental toxins, dirt, and debris without leaving your skin feeling stripped or dehydrated. 

ogx. Keeping your locks hydrated and healthy doesn’t mean having to sacrifice body and a lightweight feel. The OGX Extra Strength Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen shampoo and conditioner ($14 each) has our tresses happier than ever. This sulfate-free blend helps pump up the volume while biotin adds strength to each strand.

corpus. While applying deodorant may not seem like part of your beauty ritual, the right one can elevate your routine. The natural blend of enzymes and plant extracts in California-based Corpus’s deodorant ($26) not only combats body odor but leaves a unique scent that doubles as personal fragrance. Our fave is the Third Rose with notes of rose, Italian mandarin, violet and cedar for an earthy floral scent.

paula’s choice. Canadians rejoiced when Paula’s Choice was made shoppable on Sephora’s website and for good reason. With a science-based background, Paula’s Choice is known for highly effective skincare that targets a multitude of skin concerns. The Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant ($47) is a beauty cult classic for good reason – it unclogs your pores leaving your skin visible smoother and more radiant with every application.

ecotools. Creating a lightweight finish to complexion products calls for the right tools. With a damp Ecotools makeup sponge ($10) our makeup applies sheer and dewy plus the unique asymmetrical teardrop shape adds versatility. A flat edge applies foundation quickly and evenly throughout the face, while a rounded bottom can be used to create a seamless finish.

biolage. Smooth out frizzy hair with Biolage’s Smooth Proof Anti-Frizz Serum ($27) that enhances shine and tames unruly flyaways. The lightweight serum provides humidity control and heat protection from styling tools and even the sun! Use it fresh out of the shower to lock in your styling products or throughout the day for added shine.