Ulta Beauty Summer Guide: Essential Makeup, Haircare, and Skincare Trends for 2025
Your expert breakdown of the trendiest summer makeup, hair, and skincare products—plus pro tips for radiant results.

When temperatures rise and days grow longer, summer beauty calls for a fresh approach—one that highlights radiant skin, vibrant color, and unfussy, practical products. Ulta Beauty’s 2025 lineup embraces exactly that: chic looks, innovative formulas, and easy routines to keep you glowing from poolside mornings to sunset soirées. Below, discover the makeup, haircare, and skincare essentials editors and pros swear by this season, including the latest trends, must-have products, and expert tips for a flawless, summery finish.
Summer 2025 Makeup Trends
Summer 2025 makeup is all about effortless chic and playful color. After a moody spring, bold shades and breezy applications take center stage. Here are the standout trends and products:
- Aquamarine eyes: Swipe-on cream shadows in cool blues and aquas are big. Easy to apply and statement-making—try Danessa Myricks Beauty Mini Pastel Dream Freedom Palette for versatile shades.
- Cherry-glazed lips: Glossy, juicy reds with long-lasting hydration. Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm in Cherry is editor-approved for both color and comfort.
- Ultra-flushed cheeks: Blush is bolder. Pick radiant creams and gels for that sunkissed effect.
- Neon lashes: Mascara in vibrant pinks, blues, and purples is everywhere (look for Pat McGrath Labs Dark Star Colour Blitz Mascara).
- Minimal foundation: Light skin tints and barely-there coverage are preferred, keeping the look fresh and breathable.
Editor’s Favorite Summer Makeup Picks
Product | Key Benefit | Pro Tip |
---|---|---|
Danessa Myricks Mini Pastel Dream Palette | Vibrant, blendable summer colors | Layer shades for multidimensional lids |
Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm | Glossy hydration & bright tint | Use alone or over lip liner for volume |
Pat McGrath Dark Star Mascara | Neon lash statement | Focus color on tips for subtle pop |
Quick Makeup Tips for Hot Weather
- Prep with mattifying primer to reduce shine.
- Switch to waterproof mascara and liner to prevent smudges.
- Use cream blush and eyeshadow for sweat-resistant color.
- Set with translucent powder or makeup setting mist.
Summer Haircare Trends: Effortless Glamour
Whether you’re heading to the beach or brunch, summer hair calls for carefree styles and strategic color updates. Here’s what’s trending this season:
- Suede blonde: This creamy, lived-in blonde shade is universally flattering and less brassy in the sun.
- Baby-girl blonde & ice-blonde bobs: Cool-toned platinum and soft pastel highlights are the season’s showstoppers.
- Glossy curls: Defined curls with mirror-like shine are everywhere—opt for serums like Color Wow Pop & Lock High Gloss Shellac.
- Long-layered bangs: Wispy, face-framing fringe adds movement and texture without excess maintenance.
- Romantic accessories: Summer calls for playful adornments—think barrettes, silk scrunchies, and embellished pins (Emi Jay Ponytail Barrette in Full Bloom is a favorite).
Top Summer Hair Products
Product | Main Use | Why Editors Love It |
---|---|---|
Color Wow Pop & Lock Shellac | Seal shine & reduce frizz | Non-greasy finish, excellent for humid weather |
Emi Jay Ponytail Barrette | Accessorize instantly | On-trend, durable, works with most styles |
Schwarzkopf Platinum Blonde Dye | At-home color refresh | Even coverage, long-lasting cool tones |
How to Care for Summer Hair
- Protect color-treated hair from fading with UV-safe sprays.
- Minimize heat styling; air-dry for natural texture.
- Use lightweight leave-in conditioners for hydration.
- Apply serums at ends for concentrated shine.
- Try scalp treatments to soothe after sun exposure.
Summer Skincare Trends: Glow, Protect, and Refresh
This season’s skincare is about streamlined regimens and body-level radiance:
- Poolside skin: Think ultra-luminous, healthy-looking hydration—glass skin for the body.
- Tinted sunscreens: BB-like multitaskers prime, protect, and perfect. Merit The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is a standout.
- Lipscreens: No more chalky taste—new formulas like BeautyStat Cosmetics C Lip Serum SPF 30 are pleasant, non-greasy, and offer solid SPF.
- Face mists: Refresh and cool on-the-go; Sofie Pavitt Face Fridge to Face Blemish Defense Mist is editor-recommended.
Editor’s Summer Skincare Picks
Product | Skin Benefit | Ideal For |
---|---|---|
Merit Tinted Mineral Sunscreen | UV protection + sheer coverage | All skin types, especially sensitive |
BeautyStat C Lip Serum SPF 30 | Hydrating lip shield | Sun-sensitive lips and gloss lovers |
Sofie Pavitt Face Defense Mist | Calm and hydrate | Post-sun, blemish-prone complexions |
Essential Skincare Routine for Summer
- Gentle cleansing, morning and night (pick gel formulas for oily skin).
- Apply broad spectrum SPF every morning—don’t forget ears, lips, and body.
- Hydrate with featherweight serums; avoid heavy creams.
- Finish with a face mist midday to refresh, set makeup, and soothe skin.
- Reapply SPF every two hours, especially after swimming.
Must-Have Summer Beauty Deals & Editor Picks at Ulta
Ulta Beauty’s summer sales bring unbeatable bargains—from skin-perfecting treatments to vibrant makeup and luxe haircare kits.
- Armani Liquid Eyeshadow–Sparkle: Sheer shimmer for eye-brightening effect.
- Dior Lip Oil–Pink Lilac: Non-sticky, glossy hydration with buildable pigment.
- Londontown Kur Illuminating Nail Concealer: Perfect neutral polish for barely-there mani.
- Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30 Sunscreen Mousse: Fun-to-apply mousse formula with coconut, banana, and aloe.
- Peach & Lily Overnight Star Night Cream: Recovery treatment for stressed summer skin.
- Naked Sundays Go + Glow Lip Oil SPF 50: Enhanced UVA/UVB protection with a summery tint.
How to Shop Smart During Ulta’s Summer Sales
- Look for buy one get one 50% off skincare deals.
- Prioritize essentials—sunscreen, lip care, night cream.
- Try editor-favorite color cosmetics to refresh your look.
- Mix high-end and drugstore finds for the best value.
Pro Beauty Tips for Long-Lasting Summer Looks
- Layer SPF: Start with a mineral base, then reapply sprays/mists throughout the day.
- Lock in makeup: Use setting mist before and after application.
- Mix textures: Pair cream products underneath powder for increased staying power.
- Go lighter: Reduce the number of layers to avoid caking in the heat.
- Protect your hair: Use UV-protecting leave-ins and minimize daily washing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the biggest summer beauty trend for 2025?
Vivid eye colors—especially aquamarine—paired with glowing skin and ultra-hydrated cherry lips define this year’s look.
What’s the best way to keep makeup in place during hot weather?
Use lightweight, sweat-resistant formulas and finish with a long-lasting setting spray or powder.
Should I change my haircare routine in summer?
Yes—focus on hydration, UV protection, and gentle cleansing to combat sun, humidity, and chlorine.
How do I pick the right summer sunscreen?
Select a broad-spectrum SPF suited to your skin type and preferences (cream, mousse, spray, or tinted formulas all offer unique benefits).
Which lip products offer reliable SPF?
Opt for dedicated lipscreens or glosses containing SPF 30 or higher, avoiding chalky, scented SPFs for maximum comfort.
Expert Insights: Quick Summer Beauty Hacks
- Double cleanse on humid days to remove sweat, sunscreen, and pollution.
- Keep blotting papers handy for shine emergencies.
- Spritz face mist post-sun for rapid cooling and hydration.
- Invest in scalp sunscreen—especially with parting or bangs.
Editor’s Final Recommendations
This summer, the best approach is less stress, more radiance. Focus on essential SPF protection, lightweight hydration, and playful pops of color by tapping into Ulta Beauty’s expertly curated shelves. Swap out heavy winter creams for airy serums, experiment with trending palettes, and enjoy all-day staying power from the season’s newest formulations. Whether you’re a sun-loved minimalist or an adventurous color fan, these picks and tips will keep your summer routine effortlessly on-point.
References
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a64871871/summer-beauty-trends-2025/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ9n3YBk10g
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a65321822/readers-choice-beauty-awards-2025/
- https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/ulta-big-summer-beauty-sale-editors-picks
- https://www.zinio.com/ph/publications/cosmopolitan/8306/issues/672081/articles
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