Heat wave heroes

Ginger people and heat are not a good combination, so while some people may be loving the recent heat wave I've been struggling a bit! To stop me boiling over completely I've been keeping a few products to hand that will help me keep cool in the heat.

Facial mists - pretty much an essential at the moment I've been rotating thermal water mists from Vichy*, La Roche Posay and Avene. These are pretty simple - just spring water in an aerosol can but the fine mist of water they produce is great at cooling you down, especially if you keep them in the fridge.

Pop bands - when it gets really hot I like to keep my hair tied up as I find it lets a bit more breeze get to my neck. Pop bands won't leave a dent in your hair, even after wearing them all day, which makes them ideal for emergency heat related ponytails! From £5 per pack.

Blotting sheets - let's face it, in the hot weather we all tend to get a bit sweater than normal and skin often becomes a bit more oily. Paul and Joe's blotting papers are my savior for getting rid of excess shine without leaving a powdery finish behind.

Phytocitrus Colour Protect hair mask* - while skin often gets oilier in the sun, my coloured hair seems to dry out completely so needs a lot of extra care. This super rich mask from Phyto is designed to help protect the colour of your hair while also adding back in lost moisture. I'm using this 1-2 times per week at the moment and it's working wonders at keeping my bleached ends from getting frazzled in the sun. £24.50

SPF - almost goes without saying, but when it's 30 degrees outside everyone should be slapping some SPF on! My favourites for the face are from La Roche Posay*,  Bioderma and Susan Posnick; for the body it's Ambre Solaire dry mist or Aldi dry oil.  Whatever you use, make sure you don't forget your ears, scalp and feet. I've burnt all 3 before and it's really not fun!

What are your essential products to see you through the heatwave? 

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