Drugstore Beauty: Summer Upgrades.

drugstore beauty summer upgrades 1

The change of seasons always means switching up my beauty routine ever so slightlyโ€ฆ whether for fun, like trying a bright new lip in the summer, or out of necessity, like switching to a thicker conditioner for beach days or a lighter moisturizer for those humid dog days of summer! Today Iโ€™ve teamed up with P&G to share a few of my favorite summer beauty products that will instantly upgrade your beauty routineโ€ฆ and the best part is that they can all be found at the drugstore, meaning that you can pamper yourself without breaking the bank.

You might already know this, but when I first moved to New York (nearly ten years ago), my first job here was actually working for P&G! I worked for them for 3.5 years and will always have a soft spot for their brands. Besides the fact that they schooled me in marketing + branding; they put the most incredible amount of research and development into every product they launch.

Annnd, we have a giveaway for you today! Scroll down to the bottom of the post to enterโ€ฆ Twoย lucky winners will receive a gift set that includes all of the products I’ve featured in the post + a pair of Ray Ban Aviators!

drugstore beauty summer upgrades 2

drugstore beauty summer upgrades 3

We’ll start with my personal favorite… skincare!

First up is Olay’s Anti-Aging Nightly Peel. ย I used this for five nights as recommended, and it really helped my skinโ€™s texture (especially after a few days in the sun in the Dominican Republic). You apply it in the evening before bed (just after cleansing) and it renews the skinโ€™s surface with a triple-acid formula. Peels can be intimidating, but this one is nice as itโ€™s soothing and not irritating. Just be sure to use a moisturizer with sunscreen the next day!

The other Olay product I’m loving right now is their Overnight Mask Gel Moisturizer! If your skin is feeling irritated or dry, you want this. It leaves skin hydrated, bright, and radiant. Iโ€™m a big fan of overnight masks as you donโ€™t take them offโ€ฆ they just work all night to let you wake up a little bit prettier, and this one leaves your skin so much prettier. Soft, glowy, happy. For bonus points you can store it in the fridgeโ€ฆ it feels so good putting the cold gel on your face after a long day!

drugstore beauty summer upgrades 4

drugstore beauty summer upgrades 5

Next up.. hair & body!

I can’t say enough good things about Olay Fresh Outlast Body Wash. Dubbed โ€œcooling white strawberry + mint,โ€ itโ€™s sort of like a strawberry mojitoโ€ฆ for your body. And it really does have a cooling effect on your skin (thanks to the mint essential oils) when you apply it to your skin. During the week that I tested it out, I especially loved using it after a work outโ€ฆ I used it after both barre + Soul Cycle and found it to be so incredibly refreshing. The formula is very mild and (like all Olay body washes), less drying than soap.

And Pantene’s Power Up Daily Treatmentย is another new summer favorite. Iโ€™ve been clearly jaded from trying so many products, so I was immediately struck by the value. The giant jar (16.9 oz.) is only $4.99! In the summer, I get fewer blowouts in favor of letting my hair dry naturally, and this stuff is great (especially if you are in the sun a lot or are needing a cut.) I comb in 3-4 big pumps (note that I have a lot of hair so you probably donโ€™t need this much!) and let it air dry in a braid for instantly smoother, stronger, frizz-free hair.

Drugstore Beauty Upgrades - The Stripe.

And, a couple fun cosmetic upgrades!

I’ve already written about Covergirl’s Lash Bloom Mascara (here!),ย but this stuff is the real deal. Mascara is one of the cosmetic items that I almost always get at the drugstore, and P&G puts so much research and technology into their brushes that their mascaras are almost always better than their spendier counterparts. The formula leaves your lashes full and SOFTโ€ฆ no stiffness or brittleness. The brush on the Lash Bloom Mascara wand is specially designed to work with the formula to maintain the shape of the natural lashโ€ฆ leaving ends tapered + keeping the lashes naturally separated. So. Smart.

Covergirl’s Colorlicious Lipsticksย are also great for summer as they are super, super moisturizing. The formula is packed with ultra-hydrating ingredients (including shea, avocado, + aloe butters) but despite being so buttery + smooth the color payout is still really great. There are 36 shades but my personal favorite isย Temptress Rose (a not overtly sweet pink that looks great with a tan.) I also really likedย Romance Mauve (the perfect nude) and Spellbound Envoรปtรฉe (a bright pink with plum undertones.)

drugstore beauty summer upgrades 6
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you to P&G for partnering on this post!

photography byย Lydia Hudgens.

Leave a Comment

Leave a Comment

102 Comments

  1. Kiara King:

    The Nightly Peel actually sounds like something my skin needs right now, desperately. The texture is so uneven at the moment, so I think I’ll be investing in this ASAP! The Colourlicious Lipsticks look like the perfect shades for summer too.

    Thanks for sharing!

    http://www.lioninthewild.com

    6.30.15 Reply
  2. Chelsea:

    I have been eager to try a fun pink lip for summer. I’m taking these suggestions and will try one out at my local drugstore today.
    Love the drugstore beauty list!

    6.30.15 Reply
  3. Elisabeth:

    What an awesome spread, thanks for featuring! I would love to win all this!

    6.30.15 Reply
  4. Molly:

    I love olay body wash! I always use the one with ribbons….not sure the name ha

    6.30.15 Reply
  5. Caitlin:

    Great post as always, Grace! These products sound amazing and I can’t wait to try them out!
    xo, Caitlin
    http://thesolcompass.com

    6.30.15 Reply
  6. Melinda:

    The Pantene treatment sounds like a Perfect addition to my beauty routine. I always find my hair drying out faster, especially in the 100+ degree Arizona heat!

    6.30.15 Reply
  7. Melinda:

    The Pantene mask would be perfect to keep my hair hydrated in the 100+ degree Arizona heat!

    6.30.15 Reply
  8. Marty:

    Would love to try the Colorlicious Lipsticks in the nude color. Sounds perfect for summer months.

    6.30.15 Reply
  9. Rachel:

    I’m always looking for good drug store finds and your posts are always such a great guide!

    6.30.15 Reply
  10. Kate:

    Ooh, I love seeing drug store recs! I will sometimes splurge on beauty & skincare items (currently obsessed with Avene’s anti-redness line of moisturizers) but I am way more likely to try out drug store brands. My latest find was that cetaphil (my go-to cleanser for my sensitive skin) now comes in face wipes! I will definitely be using these all summer since I’m more likely to need to wash my face/put on fresh makeup at some point through the day/evening.

    6.30.15 Reply
  11. Elizabeth:

    I wear sunscreen year round, but I wear way more in the summer!

    6.30.15 Reply
  12. Tara:

    The Pantene treatment sounds like it would do wonders for my hair this summer!!

    6.30.15 Reply
  13. Laura McClintock:

    Think I’m going to have to try that nightly peel! Thanks for the suggestions ๐Ÿ™‚

    6.30.15 Reply
  14. Jenna S.:

    Love this assortment of drugstore beauty buys for summer – would love to win all of this fun loot! ๐Ÿ™‚

    6.30.15 Reply
  15. Cait:

    Love trying new summer products! I’ve been waiting to try out the Lash Bloom and after hearing great things, I can’t wait!

    6.30.15 Reply
  16. Heidi:

    That mask sounds amazing! I haven’t tried an overnight one yet, but maybe I need to.

    http://jax-and-jewels.blogspot.com

    6.30.15 Reply
  17. Linnea:

    I need to try the Olay products, they sound amazing!

    6.30.15 Reply
  18. Lucy:

    I have never tried a peel but know I should step up my routine!

    6.30.15 Reply
  19. Danielle:

    I would love to try the Overnight Mask Gel Moisturizer from Olay!

    6.30.15 Reply
  20. Helen:

    I love drugstore mascara! Never going back to expensive Sephora stuff.

    6.30.15 Reply
  21. Mili:

    Great post! Love the Olay Fresh Outlast body wash!

    6.30.15 Reply
  22. Liz:

    Those lipsticks look so pretty!

    xo, Liz
    http://lipstickandconfetti.com

    6.30.15 Reply
  23. Nora:

    I love olay body wash! My latest beauty obsession is the frizz free cream from living proof…sadly not a drugstore buy, but I found it at Marshall’s so it cost a bit less.

    6.30.15 Reply
  24. Rachel:

    Love the lipsticks! The colors are so fun for summer ๐Ÿ™‚

    6.30.15 Reply
  25. Keli:

    I too have been in the market for a gentle peel! For some reason my skin is in need of a lot of TLC right now. Thanks for sharing new products with us!

    6.30.15 Reply
  26. Elana:

    I love your drugstore beauty series! I definitely want to try the Pantene daily treatment.

    6.30.15 Reply
  27. Amy:

    I love Olay products.

    6.30.15 Reply
  28. Jessica:

    The Olay nighttime products sound like ones I need in my life. I have been getting better about applying a night cream, but I know there is always more I could be doing.
    I’m so glad to see your use of Pantene in this post! ๐Ÿ™‚ I recently restarted using their shampoo and conditioner, and I am so happy with how my hair looks lately.

    6.30.15 Reply
  29. Taylor Howell:

    Dying to try that Pantene hair product!

    6.30.15 Reply
  30. jillian:

    i love some good overnight face cream! xo jillian

    6.30.15 Reply
  31. adia:

    Those two Olay face products sound really interesting. I might check out the moisture mask next time I make a drugstore run!

    Adia | beauty luxe life

    6.30.15 Reply
  32. Mary:

    Love the lipsticks!

    6.30.15 Reply
  33. cecilia:

    it’s great i love this brands too

    6.30.15 Reply
  34. B Boebel:

    I need some new kin care, that peel sounds amazing!

    6.30.15 Reply
  35. Andi:

    I am dying to try and overnight mask, sounds awesome!

    6.30.15 Reply
  36. Caroline:

    I love olay’s bodywashes and and in the market for a new one in the next week or two- I love their Nectarine and Sunflower Oil, but will definitely be trying your rec. next!

    6.30.15 Reply
  37. Caitlin:

    light gel moisturizer is purrrfect for summer!

    6.30.15 Reply
  38. Annie Reeves:

    Favorite summer upgrade: a tan!!! No, but really. I love that a little color means a little less makeup.

    6.30.15 Reply
  39. Lauren:

    Thanks for introducing me to the Olay mask. I can’t wait to try it. Great giveaway!

    6.30.15 Reply
  40. lauren:

    Love Olay products and Covergirl mascara! thanks for sharing your recommendations!

    6.30.15 Reply
  41. Katie:

    Hey Grace, I’ve been using drugstore mascara for as long as I can remember. I’ve never purchased an expensive brand that beats it, so I’m finding validation in your post. Thanks for the ideas!

    Katie
    athingortwoblog.com

    6.30.15 Reply
  42. Sarah:

    The leave in conditioner is a must try for me!

    6.30.15 Reply
  43. Sharona:

    I am obsessed with lash bloom — I originally started using it bc I discovered it’s approved for contact lens-wearers, so I never assumed it could possibly be as awesome as it is! So, so much better than the expensive brands, and doesn’t leave me with raccoon eyes at the end of the day!

    6.30.15 Reply
  44. Christina:

    Awesome roundup. I’ve also started using just plan Vitamin E oil on my face a couple nights a week to make sure i have all the moisture I need!

    6.30.15 Reply
  45. Cathleen:

    Love this post. I like the overnight creams.

    6.30.15 Reply
  46. Dorothy:

    Thanks for the reviews Grace! I’ll definitely try out your recommendations on the Olay and Patene products. Cheers!

    6.30.15 Reply
  47. Sarah:

    I’m definitely buying the Pantene treatment! It sounds like exactly what I need. The CoverGirl mascara and lip colors also sound wonderful!

    Thanks for another great post!
    Sarah
    sarahintheglasses.blogspot.com

    6.30.15 Reply
  48. Sarah:

    Iโ€™m definitely buying the Pantene treatment! It sounds like exactly what I need. The CoverGirl mascara and lip colors also sound wonderful!

    Thanks for another great post!
    Sarah
    sarahintheglasses.blogspot.com

    6.30.15 Reply
  49. Emily R.:

    What a great giveaway! Honestly sometimes drugstore products can be even better than the more expensive stuff.

    6.30.15 Reply
  50. Laura:

    Love these affordable options. Dying to try the nightly peel for a little pampering.

    6.30.15 Reply
  51. Kayleigh:

    My favorite summer beauty upgrade so far is anything hair-related – it’s such a struggle keeping the ends hydrated and my roots oil-free. I love a good dry shampoo and then using Living Proof Nightcap hair mask on the ends!

    6.30.15 Reply
  52. Sofia:

    Great giveaway!

    6.30.15 Reply
  53. LoveCompassionateLee:

    Great suggestions! I really like the CG colorlicious lipsticks. Tempt Berry (355) is my favorite shade.

    Happy Tuesday
    http://www.lovecompassionatelee.com/thinkoutloud/2015/6/30/63015

    6.30.15 Reply
  54. Lindsay:

    i let my hair air dry too – and have been using that pantene hair product for the past couple months. would love to try the olay skin care products!

    6.30.15 Reply
  55. jen:

    always looking for drugstore mascaras that stand up to the designer brands…will try this one!

    6.30.15 Reply
  56. Sydney - wttwcreate:

    love that mascara!

    6.30.15 Reply
  57. Sachi:

    those lippies! Though I need a new lippie like a hole in the head =P

    6.30.15 Reply
  58. Lindsay:

    That body wash sounds heavenly, and a pair of Ray Bans are the best summer upgrade!

    6.30.15 Reply
  59. Tara:

    I like the look of those overnight Olay products especially, but would be happy to try all of these fun products out!

    6.30.15 Reply
  60. Laura Kathleen:

    In the summer I like to use a moisturizing mask on my hair once a week! I also love spritzing a little lemon juice into my hair when I’m in the sun for some fun highlights (although this year I splurged and got professional balayage highlights (LOVE)). Also, I love the spray and go drugstore lotions to keep my skin hydrated and soft especially after shaving my legs which is necessary in the summer. That cooling overnight mask looks like a need! Heading to CVS after work ๐Ÿ™‚

    6.30.15 Reply
  61. Emma:

    I’ve been using YSL’s Radiant Touch under my eyes and it is a serious game changer!

    6.30.15 Reply
  62. Elizabeth Linfield:

    Love the idea of putting the face gel in the fridge!

    6.30.15 Reply
  63. Meaghan:

    The Pantene treatment is exactly what I’ve been looking for! Thanks for sharing! ๐Ÿ™‚

    6.30.15 Reply
  64. Jordan :):

    that cooling body wash sounds amazing. i am SO HOT here in los angeles. i think i need to get some! fingers crossed ๐Ÿ™‚

    6.30.15 Reply
  65. The Office Stylist:

    Definitely need to try out the Overnight Mask Gel Moisturizer! Thanks for sharing this fabulous list of yours.

    -The Office Stylist

    6.30.15 Reply
  66. Haley:

    I’ve never tried an overnight mask – would be fun!

    6.30.15 Reply
  67. Leigh Anne:

    I’ve been thinking about changing up my beauty routine, so thanks for this timely post!

    6.30.15 Reply
  68. Leah:

    Thanks for a great review of products! I’m excited to try the Colorlicious Lipstick this summer!

    6.30.15 Reply
  69. Andrea Darst:

    I love using BB cream or tinted moisturizer in the summer instead of foundation!

    6.30.15 Reply
  70. Elyse G.:

    No more hairdryer! I replace it with my trusty bottle of sea slat spray. *fingers crossed*

    6.30.15 Reply
  71. Danielle M:

    Would love to try the gel moisturizer mask!!

    Ps…love your robe!! Super cute:) Who makes it?

    6.30.15 Reply
  72. Holly:

    I love a dark lip in summer!

    6.30.15 Reply
  73. Carrie:

    I use Olay’s moisturizing body wash in ultra moisture. It leaves my skin feeling clean and moisturized but never filmy, and I love the soft scent. I need to try the overnight gel mask moisturizer next!

    6.30.15 Reply
  74. Ashley:

    I think the body wash sounds awesome…I’m definitely going to have to try it! I’ve been wanting to switch from bar soap to body wash, anyway.

    6.30.15 Reply
  75. Kelly:

    Ooh the pantene product looks promising!

    6.30.15 Reply
  76. Jenn:

    I want those lipsticks!! As a daughter of a drugstore owner, I grew up using these types of products and find some are just as great as the pricier counterparts. I’m happy to see reviews from a blogger I trust!

    7.1.15 Reply
  77. Hilliary:

    P&G is my forever favorite too! as a marketing student every chance I had to research the company or use them as an example I did!

    7.1.15 Reply
  78. Erin H.:

    The Pantene treatment sounds like t would be great for my hair in the summer!

    7.1.15 Reply
  79. monica:

    The mask sounds amazing! And love the idea of storing in a fridge! Fingers crossed!

    7.1.15 Reply
  80. Laura:

    I’d love to try that Olay face mask!

    7.1.15 Reply
  81. Allison:

    Such a good idea putting your moisturizer in the fridge!! I always do that with my lipstick in the summer but never thought about my moisturizer! Great suggestions! ๐Ÿ™‚

    7.1.15 Reply
  82. Christina:

    the Olay body wash is my favorite too!

    7.1.15 Reply
  83. Alexa K:

    I’m a Covergirl mascara gal, too! Can’t even remember the last time I bought another brand.

    7.1.15 Reply
  84. Tricia:

    Thanks for the Nightly Peel recommendation- I’ve been feeling like my skin is just a little blah this summer and will definitely be trying it!

    7.1.15 Reply
  85. Tricia:

    Thanks for the Luminous Peel recommendation- I’ve been feeling like my skin is just a little blah this summer and will definitely be trying it!

    7.1.15 Reply
  86. marissa:

    Just got back from an African safari and could use a good scrubbing!

    7.1.15 Reply
  87. Deirdre:

    I just stopped using freebie nail salon hand lotion on my hands and feet at night, and decided to swap it out for Aquaphor (so that it can really soak into my parched summer skin). Thanks!

    7.1.15 Reply
  88. Colleen Boudreau:

    Love the Overnight Mask Gel Moisturizer.

    7.1.15 Reply
  89. Lauren:

    dr. Dennis gross alpha beta glow pads!

    7.1.15 Reply
  90. Cy:

    It seems like the drug store brands these days are right on par with the department stores! All that money for research, right? Love all these picks, thanks!

    7.2.15 Reply
  91. Beth:

    I’d love to try the Olay peel!

    7.2.15 Reply
  92. Amanda Tierney:

    Love the punch of pink on the lips! Thanks for sharing practical drugstore finds:)

    7.2.15 Reply
  93. Jordan Troublefield:

    Love the bright lip sticks and the more bronze colors in my face makeup!

    7.2.15 Reply
  94. Zed:

    I’m loving the lash bloom mascara.

    7.2.15 Reply
  95. kate:

    Great products, thanks!

    7.2.15 Reply
  96. Kelli:

    I love the Lash Bloom mascara! I bought it in both brown and black because I’ve loved wearing it so much. My lashes are long and thick so most mascaras clump up or flake off easily, but this one doesn’t do that at all.
    Both Olay products sound fascinating. I really like their other products so I can’t wait to try those soon. Thanks for this post!

    7.3.15 Reply
  97. Erin:

    Will definitely be picking up the masks! Great recommendations!

    7.4.15 Reply
  98. Hannah:

    I really like Pantene hair products for the price. I will have to try the power up daily treatment to help my poor chlorine hair from the pool!

    7.6.15 Reply
  99. Elise:

    I love Covergirl mascara and would LOVE to try the Lash Bloom Mascara!

    7.6.15 Reply
  100. Jess Zimlich:

    All the bright lipsticks, please!

    7.6.15 Reply
  101. Lily:

    Love getting new drugstore ideas!

    7.6.15 Reply