Summer Beauty Must-Haves Under $50

Summer is here, and so is my list of beauty essentials! Some of these products are tried and true, while others are recent discoveries. They’re all under $50 and perfect for brightening and smoothing your skin this season. Listed in the order of use, check them out:

CeraVe Renewing SA Facial Cleanser: This facial cleanser feels amazing on my skin and effectively removes all makeup while cleansing. I usually double cleanse with it because of all the makeup I wear for coaching or events. It even takes off most of the eyelash glue when I wear lashes, which is a huge help. Plus, it’s non-comedogenic and non-drying.

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid: Perfect for achieving that clear-skin summer glow. I discovered this product after attending a wedding in California last summer and receiving a compliment on my skin—I was sold! This, along with Glossier’s exfoliate, is my go-to for evening out my skin tone. 

Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C + Tri-Peptide Collagen: A new addition to my routine, this vitamin C serum boosts brightness and elasticity. I specifically chose this brand because I saw Karina of Tone It Up use it. While I usually love iS Clinical Super Serum Advance+, I wanted a budget-friendly option, and this fits the bill perfectly.

IT Cosmetics Confidence in an Eye Cream: Another new product I’ve been loving! This thick cream brightens the eye area and reduces puffiness and wrinkles. Plus, I think Jamie Kern Lima, the founder of IT Cosmetics, is such a badass, so I’m happy to wear her cosmetics. Other great options include Kinship’s Brightwave Vitamin C Energizing Eye Cream and Biossance Marine Algae Eye Cream + Squalane.

The Ordinary Face Serum Set: I’ve fallen for The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydration Support Formula. It’s moisturizing without being moisturizer. It’s perfect for hydrating the skin with a smooth, light finish. I’ve also added the Caffeine Solution and Niacinamide to my routine for extra hydration.

No 7 Lift and Luminate Triple Action Face Serum: A new nighttime routine favorite. Shoutout to one of my dancers for this recommendation. I layer this with eye cream and hyaluronic acid, and my skin feels smooth and hydrated when I wake up. It does have a scent, so if that’s not your thing, you might want to skip it.

Elta MD UV Clear Sunscreen: My absolute favorite sunscreen. I wear it every day, rain or shine, winter or summer, indoors or outdoors. It’s been amazing for my skin over the past six years. It’s light, NP recommended, and doesn’t leave a thick or oily residue. Honorable mention goes to Supergoop Glow Screen, which I loved using in Tulum.


Enjoy these summer beauty must-haves and let me know which ones you love!

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