Power couple alert
While SPF and vitamin C are brilliant skincare staples in their own right, they really bring out the best in each other. As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps to boost the effectiveness of sun protection in preventing dark spots and uneven tone, when they’re paired together. As our special guest Emma Lewisham says, “Sunscreen is an absolute essential in any skincare routine, and protecting my skin is non-negotiable over the summer season.”
One of our current favourites is Emma’s new Sunceutical SPF50 Mineral Face Crème – a new-era zinc-based sunscreen-meets-moisturiser that’s lightweight, nourishing and perfect under makeup. “This mineral active sunscreen elevates your summer routine with advanced skincare benefits,” Emma says.
She recommends pairing it with a vitamin C serum for next-level results. “Another must-have for summer is a serum that targets discolouration – like our radiance-boosting Skin Reset Serum – as UV rays are stronger this time of year and can exacerbate all forms of pigmentation concerns,” she says. “Together, the Skin Reset Serum and Sunceutical SPF50 Mineral Face Crème ensure your skin stays protected, radiant and even-toned all season long.”
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Sunscreen is only one form of sun protection. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply as directed.
Like a holiday, bottled
Every year, Diptyque releases a new collection centred on its sun-drenched scent, Ilio – and every year, it re-establishes itself as a MECCA favourite. Brought to life by illustrations from French artist Alexandre Benjamin Navet, the Hedonistic Summer collection is no exception. Inspired by long days spent on the Mediterranean coast, it offers zingy citrus candles, delicate hair mists and – of course – the always-anticipated Ilio EDT. Think: a delicate, citrusy, sweet and skin-like scent, housed in a limited-edition bottle. Or don’t think – go sniff for yourself.
Summer beauty in full swing
Whether you’re a longtime tennis lover or simply someone who saw Challengers once, the Australian Open is undeniably the place to be in January – and this year’s going to be particularly ace. The MECCA SUMMER CLUB is coming to Melbourne’s AO TOPCOURT from January 12 – 26, complete with walk-in hair, makeup and skin services, a shoppable selection of courtside beauty essentials, tennis puns and more. Level up your summer beauty routine or refresh your look between sets with any AO Ground Pass Ticket – and if you can’t make it this year, here’s a taste of the beauty we’ll be serving up.
Beach bag beauty
After a few weeks lolling about on the sand, I’d like to think we’ve all perfected the art of beach-bag beauty. But just in case you haven’t, here’s a foolproof checklist (because yes, the right lip balm is as important as that Emily Henry book).
SPF for all over
If you only bring one product, make it sun protection! MECCA COSMETICA’s To Save Body SPF50+ Hydrating Sunscreen is a fast-absorbing, nourishing formula for all over, while the To Save Face SPF50+ Brightening Sun Serum is a lightweight, radiance-boosting SPF that looks (and feels) ultra-natural.
Leave-in conditioner
To avoid crunchy, salt-coated strands at the end of an otherwise glorious beach day, bring something like the Ceremonia Guava Leave In Conditioner. It’ll fight post-swim frizz, repair dehydrated ends and leave your strands smelling deliciously fruity. Bonus points for brushing it through with a Tangle Teezer.
Lip balm
There’s likely already one in every bag you own, but I’m reminding you regardless. Bring something with SPF and a sheer tint, like MECCA COSMETICA’s Lip De-Luscious Glide with SPF15, for extra sun protection and a subtle hint of colour.
Instant skin revival
Let’s say you’ve had a well-celebrated holiday season full of bubbly drinks, late nights and gravy-soaked meals (as you should!) and you’re looking to whip your skin into new-year shape. For an overnight fix, Emma Lewisham suggests applying her Supernatural Face Mask as part of your PM skincare routine. “It works in synergy with your skin’s natural rhythms, replenishing and revitalising as you sleep,” she explains. “By morning, you will have skin that feels plumper, softer, and visibly refreshed – like you've had a full eight hours of beauty sleep (even if you haven't). It's pure magic.”