Wait, I've Just Discovered How to Do the Easiest, Most Natural-Looking Summer Makeup

I'm a qualified makeup artist and beauty editor, and even I find myself standing in Boots for hours on end, trying out all the blushers and lipsticks, not really knowing which shade suits me the best. I know I'm not alone in this, as my friends are always telling me they have the same problem. Although I could do some research and find out which shades I should choose, I think I've found an easier solution. Say hello to pH makeup.

Lately, more and more brands have been launching pH makeup formulas that react with your skin to create a customised finish. I've been busy testing some of the best pH makeup products on the market, and I also spoke to an expert makeup artist to learn more about why you might want to add pH makeup to your everyday routine. Keep on scrolling to find out more...

Deputy beauty editor Grace Lindsay is wearing the Wonderskin pHlush Stick and the HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil.

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What Is pH Makeup, and How Does It Work?

"The way [that pH makeup] works is that the formula reacts when it comes into contact with moisture on your skin or lips, creating a beautiful rosy flush or lip stain that adapts slightly to the person wearing it," explains Naima Bremer, global artistry ambassador for Fenty Beauty. "This gives a fresh, natural-looking result that feels personal."

"One of the things I love most about pH makeup is how easy and approachable it makes beauty. Not everyone wants to spend hours figuring out undertones or standing in front of a display trying to choose between ten different shades. PH products are great because they take away the guesswork and create that healthy, natural-looking flush that works beautifully for everyday wear."

The Best pH Makeup Products, Tried & Tested

1. Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Stick

If you are looking for a natural, everyday blush, you cannot go wrong with this cream stick from Dior. Since getting my hands on it, I have actually worn it every single day, as it looks amazing and is so easy to apply. There are 13 shades available, but each formula reacts to the skin's pH, taking on either a cool pink or warm coral undertone. I wear the shade Rosewood, which comes up as a slightly flushed, pink hue on my cheeks, perfect for that "no makeup" makeup look. Oh, and the dewy finish is to die for.

2. Fenty Beauty Match Stix Colour Adaptive Cheek & Lip Stick

If you want a more statement makeup look, Fenty Beauty is where it's at. I love using this stick to add a real pop of colour to my cheeks or lips. It has a really cooling, almost jelly-like texture that adds a gorgeous sheen to the skin, and it features colour shift technology to create a customised rosy glow. I think I'll be reaching for this the entire summer.

3. Wonderskin pHlush Stick

Another multi-use stick I can't get enough of is the Wonderskin pHlush Stick. Less jelly-like and more creamy than the option above, this stick can be used on the lips and cheeks, although, because of the larger applicator, I personally find it easier to use as a blush. It features pH-adjusting pigment technology to deliver a custom flush to the cheeks that looks naturally beautiful every single time. What I love about this formula is that it also contains jojoba, castor, and sunflower seed oils, shea butter and niacinamide, so it makes your cheeks look so plump and juicy.

4. HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil

If you're after a specific lip product, let me introduce you to the HAUS Labs PhD Hybrid Lip Oil. I'm a big fan of lip oils, and this has quickly become a new favourite. The texture is perfect. Not greasy, but super hydrating with a subtle sheen. Plus, the tinted formula transforms into a custom colour when applied, creating that "your lips but better" finish that can be so hard to achieve. I have literally *no notes*.

5. Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint

You've probably seen this product all over your TikTok feed, and for good reason. The viral "jelly" blush delivers such an impressive wash of colour to the cheeks; I always get asked what blush I'm wearing whenever I use it. I tend to reach for this in summer as the cooling jelly formula is so refreshing to apply. It is a stain, so I would recommend blending it in rather quickly, but the good thing is it lasts all day. The shades look different on everyone thanks to the pH technology, but what's consistent is the stunning, watercolour-like finish that it gives.

6. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Blush Balm Lip Tint

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.