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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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The eucalyptus oil imparts a subtle breeze in this coconut and olive oil-based salve.
Yes to Coconut Cooling Lip Oil $5, yestocarrots.com.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.