CULT BEAUTY IS OUT OF OFFICE

Embracing the escapist spirit of a sun-soaked getaway, we set sail for paradise. Join us for an unforgettable summer of sun, sea and the very best in beauty — from cult classics to new and trending favourites — as our in-house experts shine a light on the products they’ll be turning to all season long.
SKIN SAVIOURS: THE EXPERT'S SPF EDIT
Sun-drenched days spent lounging on the volcanic shores of Sicily or Santorini — an idyllic setting that requires a routine that follows suit. When it comes to choosing your SPF, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against both UVA and UVB rays, with SPF 30 or higher. Whether you’re sightseeing, dining al fresco or sunbathing, it’s always worth opting for water-resistant formulas to ensure they’re effective no matter the event.
‘For a seamless, hydrated base that lasts all day, Ultra Violette’s Queen Screen is my ultimate go-to,’ says Sophia Ghwedar, Cult Beauty’s senior buyer. ‘It keeps my foundation radiant and fresh, free from pilling or oil.’ For optimum protection, it’s recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours — or more if you’re swimming — and pay particular attention to often-missed areas like the back of the neck, ears and feet.
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FLIGHT MODE: SKIN CARE FOR CRUISING ALTITUDE
Once the sole preserve of dedicated skin care enthusiasts, the in-flight routine has become a travel prerequisite. ‘Flying can have an array of effects on the skin due to the unique conditions inside an airplane,’ Cult Beauty’s senior buyer and in-house skin care expert, Leanne Finlayson, explains. ‘Dehydration is the biggest skin concern caused by the cabin air’s low humidity — it can lead to tightness, a dull complexion and an increased appearance of fine lines.’
Leanne’s 37,000-feet routine? Summer Friday's moisture-locking Jet Lag serum followed by Glow Recipe’s antioxidant-rich Watermelon Glow Mist, which also helps to protect against sensitivity and redness. ‘SPF is so important, too,’ she adds. ‘The sun reflecting against the clouds gives up to 80% more sun damage over a 2-hour period than being out in the sun. ELEMIS’ cult formula, the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream with SPF 30, covers all bases — it’s a super nourishing cream made with powerful marine and rejuvenating plant actives.’
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SHORE THINGS: OUR HIGH-SUMMER HEROES
Salty hair, minimal make up — low-key summer styling is an art form. It’s an effortless look that leans on featherweight lotions, cooling elixirs and one-the-go mists. ‘Fenty Beauty’s Hydro Viser Huez is an instant summer skin refresher,’ notes buyer, Lindsey Whiteford. ‘It’s a hybrid SPF that’s loaded with tinted moisturiser, giving skin a sheer, glowy finish. It’s a hard-working product that promises to be a staple in the skintelectual’s beach bag.’
‘By Terry’s Tea to Tan bronzing spritz is another incredible product,’ she adds. ‘It’s a fine mist that absorbs quickly and leaves a beautiful sun-kissed glow with an oh-so-subtle shimmer — a single application can offer light coverage or it can be built up for a golden-hour glow all day long.’
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SCENTS OF SUMMER: FRAGRANCES FOR SUN-SOAKED DAYS
You can think of your fragrance wardrobe a bit like the clothes in your closet — the pieces that you love in the winter can feel too heavy and warm for the summer months. And switching up your scent has never been more exciting thanks to unique and distinctive scents for some of the most exciting names in the industry.
‘With its fruity and fresh notes, NEST New York’s Santa Barbara Strawberry Perfume is a refreshing and uplifting choice for hot summer days,’ says Abigail Routley, Cult Beauty’s senior fragrance buyer. ‘And Jo Malone’s deliciously creamy raspberry blend captures everything we love about the iconic ice-cream scent — making it a certified hit for our gourmand lovers,’ she adds.
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MEET THE MULTI-TASKERS: MAKE UP THAT DOES BOTH
The carry-on staples at the top of our list this year, no matter the destination — Taylor Jenkins Reid’s latest read, Atmosphere, and 2-in-1 beauty staples that save on space and time. Thankfully, the Cult curation is serving up hybrid heroes that do just that. ‘We believe that make up should multi-task,’ says Lindsey. ‘A truly hybrid product with skin care ingredients that hydrate and soothe the skin, Milk Makeup’s Jelly Tint is an on-the-go stick that gives lips and cheeks a sheer wash of colour.’
For an all-in-one product that will take you from the breakers to the bar, there are a few key callouts. ‘A viral bodycare staple, Patrick Ta's Major Glow Body Crème casts the most radiant glow with every application,’ notes Lindsey. ‘The buttery texture leaves skin feeling plump, nourished and instantly refreshed. It’s the perfect partner to Saie’s Glowy Super Gel — a beautiful lightweight formula that helps to accentuate a golden tan.’
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MAKE WAVES: NEW SUMMER HAIR RITUALS
It’s not only your skin that needs looking after during the summer. The sun, humidity, and warmer temperatures can take a toll on your hair too, making it important to show your strands some love during the high-summer months with nourishing oils and regular conditioning treatments.
Expertly fusing Parisian luxury with no-frill formulas, OUAI serves up pitch-perfect products for healthy summer hair this season. ‘A premium blend that protects strands from colour fade, heat and UV damage, OUIA’s hair oil has a lightweight, non-greasy feel that’s perfect for poolside styling,’ says buyer Dana Toucedo. ‘It also envelopes hair in an incredible scent and gives an ultra gloss high-shine finish — a summer go-to that delivers on all counts.’
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