Keep Cool, and Carry On: 17 Cooling Products to Buy This Summer
Air conditioner on the fritz? These skin care gems impart a soothing chill while working their magic.
Here’s how to keep cool—from the neck up, at least—during sweltering summer days.
Taraji from W‘s August 2015 issue, shot by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott. Styled by Edward Enninful.
The effects of this scrub’s eucalyptus, peppermint and menthol oils continue long after I’ve rinsed it off to the point that my feet feel like they have a built-in air conditioner.
Dimitri James Foot Fetish Sea Salt Heel Polish $25, skinn.com.
The menthol and camphor in this pale mint-colored lotion provide a subtle cool sensation upon application.
Eminence Rosehip & Lemongrass Soothing Hydrator $48, buynaturalskincare.com.
I target my legs and shoulders (and sometimes underarms) with bursts of this moisturizing spray after I towel off post-morning shower.
Little Barn Apothecary Coconut + Mint Cooling Body Mist $10, littlebarnapothecary.com.
This stubby little fat stick feels like an ice cube wrapped in a big wad of cotton, so even though it’s meant for the eye area, I sometimes go rogue and use it on my cheeks and browbones.
Boscia Super Cool De-Puffing Eye Balm $26, boscia.com
I liberally spray this over my face and neck pre sunscreen and moisturizer, then inhale deeply. It makes me feel happy and centered, and dew-ifies my skin.
Nannie Inez Wake Up Mist with Mint & Rosemary $24, nannieinez.com.
The eucalyptus oil imparts a subtle breeze in this coconut and olive oil-based salve.
Yes to Coconut Cooling Lip Oil $5, yestocarrots.com.
Applying a generous coat of this bouncy gel to cheeks before bed guarantees waking up to a nicely plump softness.
Lancome Energie De Vie Melt-In Sleeping Mask $65, lancome-usa.com.
This stuff feels so relieving on skin, I’m tempted to use it even when I don’t have mosquito bites.
Curel Itch Defense Instant Soothing Moisturizing Spray $9, curel.com.
If the prior evening involved a glass of wine or two (or a late bedtime), I’ll place one of these below my eyes and chill out for a few minutes before putting on my makeup. If I’m late for work, so be it. Priorities.
Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Gels $30, ulta.com.
I save this for my long bike rides on super sunny days. Of course, I first apply it before I head out, but it encourages reapplication since it feels like I’m splashing water on my body.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Cooling Water Lotion $35.99, target.com.
A sheer, nonsticky lip color that you apply with a mess-proof sponge? I say, show me more shades!
Lancôme Juicy Shaker Lip Oil in Show Me the Honey $21, lancome-usa.com.
The antioxidants in this potion protect my face from the sun and all manner of urban nasties.
Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart SPF 50 $68, elizabetharden.com.
On hot days I like to wear a crisp, fresh-from-the-shower men’s cologne; despite its name, this mint, mandarin, and woody scent is very chill.
Carven L’Eau Intense Eau de Toilette $95, saks.com.
This surprisingly light cream sinks in instantly to tackle puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles, which are decidedly un-summery.
Olay Eyes Ultimate Eye Cream $25, olay.com.
Spritz on this red-hibiscus spray after cleansing to restore pH levels, or use it throughout the day, like I do, as a delightful pick-me-up.
Dior One Essential Mist-Lotion Detoxifying Mist $60, dior.com.
When I need not only sun protection but also real camouflage, I reach for this luscious whipped formula.
La Prairie Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal Transforming Cream SPF 30 $195, laprairie.com.
This light gel calms flare-ups, primes skin for makeup, and (bonus!) feels refreshingly cool going on.
La Mer the Perfecting Treatment $240, lamer.com.
