The 39 best products we tried and loved in June

CNN

2 days ago

Although June typically feels like a gradual crawl into summer, this year, it felt more like a plunge. The heat hit us at full force and brought with it the need to stay moisturized, tame frizzy hair and protect our skin from the sun more than ever. As is the case every month, we asked CNN Underscored editors to share which products they couldn't live without in June. Among our favorites, you'll find dewy skin care, breezy clothing and comfy summer shoes. Those are mixed in with our usual tech finds and home essentials, so be sure to check out every section on this list to determine what you could benefit from this season too.
Plus Guard Your ID 3-in-1 Wide Advanced Roller
I bought this on a whim, and it is my most-used office product. This neat roller completely blocks out your personal information in one swipe on mail, important documents and even prescription bottles. Since I don't own a shredder, it gives me peace of mind that my information is safe. I trust it so much that this photo contains my home address. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor
'The Book of Questions' by Gregory Stock
This pocket-sized book has basically become my personality over the last few months. It's packed with almost 300 questions that range from 'What's the most outrageous thing you've ever done?' to 'If computers could think and feel, should people be able to own them?' Many of my friends have indulged in answering just one question and quickly end up in a long-winded spiral of question after question at their own insistence. I keep it in my purse at all times so I'm ready whenever opportunity strikes, and I've single-handedly convinced at least two other people to buy a copy for themselves. While I can gab with my friends for hours, this little book helps us explore deeper conversations we might not have organically. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor
The Laundress Mesh Bag Bundle
I got these laundry bags six months ago, and they've been game changers for washing delicates. So far this spring and summer, I've used the larger bag for dresses and lightweight sweaters, and the smaller bag is great for intimates. Using the bags gives me peace of mind because I know the garments won't snag on the inside of the washing machine. — Nikol Slatinska, associate home and gifts editor
Brooklinen Caroline Z. Hurley Washed European Linen Duvet Cover
I spent all of last summer sleeping in linen sheets, and now it's a necessity. I wanted to complete my set with a duvet that could keep me comfy while withstanding the three-digit heat waves we get in the city. This washed European linen duvet from Brooklinen's exclusive Caroline Z. Hurley collection only gets softer each time I wash it. In my home, stripes are considered a neutral, and the Agave and Terra pattern coordinates with all my sheets. My Brooklinen down comforter fits perfectly inside without slipping all over (something that I literally cannot stand.) — Molly Flores, photo editor
Naomi After-Cooking Hand Scrub
I love eating pungent foods like garlic and onions, but I hate the lingering smell of them on my hands after cutting them. This hand scrub is the first product I've used that removes food odors from my hands. Plus, it's a much better experience than wiping your hands up and down your stainless-steel faucet to try to get rid of smells (yes, that's a thing). — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor
Blueair Blue Signature Air Purifier
I had been using an older Blueair air purifier in my living room for the past five years, and while it still seemed to clean the air well, I was really longing for the ability to control it from my phone. So as soon as the brand's latest smart air purifier hit the market, I knew I had to get my hands on it. I appreciate that from the app, I can control the settings, see the current air quality and even check the filter life. It's a very design-forward appliance, especially because it's so compact and doubles as a side table. I'm also planning to get the wooden leg attachments once they're available. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor
Lululemon Align No Line High-Rise Pants
Lululemon finally dropped what customers have been wanting for years: the Align No Line leggings, which have no front seam (aka no camel toe). If like me, you've experienced the dreaded camel toe during a workout, you'll want to hop on getting this new launch that offers a smoother look than the original Align style. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor
Teleties Flat Hair Clips
I'm always reaching for a claw clip to put my hair up without ruining my curls, but a lot of them are uncomfortable. I tried out these flat versions from Teleties for yoga and they are a life saver. I can even comfortably lie down without them digging into my head, and they come in plenty of different shapes, styles and colors. — Molly Flores, photo editor
Larroudé Milan Flat Leather Sandals
I'm not the biggest sandal person and usually opt for the most comfortable shoes possible like sneakers, but these have really changed the game for me. The black leather goes with everything, the shape is flattering and they're surprisingly comfortable for how good they look. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator
Etam 2-in-1 Short-Sleeved Sports Top
I've been hard at work testing the best running shorts for women and figured I should probably replace my sports bra from middle school in the process. On the hunt for flattering and supportive running tops, I tried this top from Etam. After just one run, I was pleasantly surprised. There's no padding, which I actually prefer. Instead, a built-in breathable lining kept me feeling supported, from treadmill to pavement. I'm tempted to wear it with jeans too. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer
New Balance Men's 550 Sneakers
The New Balance 550 have been my go-to sneakers for well over a year now, and this new sea salt/mercury color I just scored for a great price is easily my favorite one yet. The patches of red leather make them look more luxurious than previous versions I've worn, all while retaining that same cushy, cloudlike fit that made me obsessed with the 550 style in the first place. They're just a perfect pair of sneakers; I wear them everywhere from the office to the bar, and they even hold up for a casual basketball shootaround. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor
Brahmin Celina Bucket Bag
Finding a work bag for summer is tricky. I find that many options read too beachy for the office and others simply don't fit everything I need them to. This bucket bag is the perfect size for carrying from work to dinner dates while looking professional yet stylish. It has two spacious compartments with a zippered divider in between so I can keep my work stuff (laptop, charger, notebook) separate from my personal essentials (wallet, keys, phone, even a mini umbrella). It's expensive but the quality is high, and it feels well worth it for a bag I can carry every day. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor
Bailey Renée Relevé Scrunchie
I love a slicked-back bun on those days I cannot be bothered to do my hair, especially in the summer. But sometimes that can be a little boring. My go-to is adding a scrunchie, and I've been obsessed with this one from Bailey Renée: an oversized look juxtaposed with dainty eyelets and scalloped edges. They come in various colors, all made with plant-based dye and handmade with love. — Molly Flores, photo editor
Rothy's The Espadrille Mary Janes
Whenever summer rolls around, I tend to lean on sneakers to wear to the office so my feet don't hurt. Most sandals that are office-appropriate just won't cut it for a couple miles of walking. Thankfully, Rothy's recently launched these chic espadrille flats, which I'm already assuming are going to be my go-to summer office shoes. They have plush footbeds and are the perfect happy medium between sneakers and chic sandals. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor
Coofandy Men's Casual Button-Down Shirt
I love getting complimented on a shirt I'm wearing just to respond with, "Thanks! I got it for like 20 bucks on Amazon." That's exactly the case with this Coofandy button-down, which is incredibly comfy and lightweight while still being classy enough for the office or a night out. I've owned a couple of these shirts for a few years now, but they've become more essential than ever during this record-breaking New York City heat wave. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor
Prose Custom Scalp Serum
Prose seems to have an almost cult-like following, so I wanted to find out for myself if its products are worth it. And I have to say, thanks to their Custom Shampoo and Custom Conditioner, my hair has never felt healthier and smoother. I'm here to recommend their new scalp serum, however, because it feels like a miracle serum. My scalp is usually dry, and it gets a little itchy after two days of not washing. However, using this has been a game changer. It's also very easy to apply and doesn't leave my hair greasy! — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer
Supergoop! Glowscreen Soft-Radiance Drops Mineral SPF 40
As someone who detests wearing heavy foundations amid hot, humid weather, the latest Supergoop! tinted sunscreen is a godsend. It's loaded with skin care goodies like hydrating jojoba and brightening turmeric extract that doesn't irritate my dry, sensitive skin. The squeezy tube packaging makes it easy to dispense a controlled amount directly onto skin. The Golden Hour shade blends seamlessly with my tan, and I often use it as my daily makeup base because of its unmatched glowy finish. — Jacqueline Saguin, deals editor
Hume Supernatural Mini Dry Body Oil
I've become quite the jet-setter since the start of the summer, and June has been no exception. I often deprioritize my body moisturizer in the name of packing light, but including this Hume Supernatural Mini Dry Body Oil in my toiletries case has enhanced my travel routine immensely. It's incredibly light and hardly takes up any space in my suitcase. It makes my skin feel nourished, which is especially helpful for someone who is prone to dry skin post-travel. I no longer feel like I'm missing my skin care routine when I'm away from home. Plus, it's only $8, which my wallet loves. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer
Tatcha The Dewy Milk Moisturizer
If you love a dewy finish but hate anything too heavy, this light moisturizer is a win. It sinks right in, layers well with makeup and always leaves my skin feeling refreshed and plump. I love using it to prep my summer makeup since I use a lighter foundation. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator
Glossier Body Spritz
Body sprays are having a moment, and it makes total sense to pick one up for your summer scent. This orange blossom one from Glossier is fresh and floral. I fell in love after the first spritz. Body mists are lighter than an eau de parfum, which means they layer great with other fragrances, and it's not such a let down when you sweat them off on hot summer days (as opposed to realizing your expensive perfume has been muddled and faded by humidity and sweat by the time you finish your commute). I keep this one in my tote to stay fresh throughout the day. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor
Coola Dew Good Illuminating Serum Sunscreen SPF 30
I haven't been as diligent about applying sunscreen on my face as I should, and as much as I want to look like I'm not a day over 21, my budding fine lines are telling a different story. I've found my dream sunscreen that makes me look forward to the task. Coola's SPF-enriched serum with skin care benefits like probiotics melts into my skin for a hydrated, dewy glow that serves as the perfect sun-safe primer under makeup. I'm also such a sucker for its pretty packaging worthy of displaying on my countertops. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor
Carpe Antiperspirant Underarm Lotion
I have long been seeking an effective antiperspirant lotion for my breast area so I tried Carpe's Sweat-Absorbing Breast Lotion. Unfortunately, that didn't work for me. However, Carpe's underarm lotion kept my underarms sweat- and stink-free — one less thing to worry about while I was losing half my body weight in sweat during my beach vacation in the Philippines. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer Related article
10 best all-body deodorant balms, according to dermatologistsPaume Renewing Hand Serum
My skin tends to get dry from the summer sun, so I've been using this serum to make sure my hands are extra hydrated. I put it on once during the day and again before going to bed, followed by hand lotion. When I wake up, my hands feel extra soft, smooth and moisturized. I also love that the formula is lightweight and nongreasy, and that the scent is subtle. — Nikol Slatinska, associate home and gifts editor
Lush Super Milk Glitter Mist Spray
This spray smells so good, but it's way more than just a nice scent. You can use it on both your hair and body, and the fragrance actually lasts. It's milky and a bit citrusy; it's light yet heavy enough to leave a lasting scent. It also leaves behind a subtle shimmer that gives your skin a pretty, glowy finish. It's perfect for summer, and the bottle lasts forever. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator
Skinfix 2% BHA Cleanser
After getting my hands on this face cleanser, I haven't stopped talking about it. As someone with acne-prone skin and cystic bumps around my chin area, I can happily say that this formula keeps my face clear in this scorching summer weather. It's packed with ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide and more that have reduced the size of my pores and persistent blackheads around my nose. It'll be a staple in my skin care routine moving forward given how much I've been digging it for the past month or so. For the quality, the $35 price tag isn't too bad either. — Elena Matarazzo, associate deals editor
Garnier Fructis Sleek and Shine Frizz Tamer Wand
Wait, so you're telling me that for under ten bucks, I can master the slicked-back ballerina bun trend all while taming my unruly postpartum bangs? I like that with this discreet wand, I don't need to dip into a vat of gel to get the sleek results I'm looking for. The best parts are that it doesn't flake after hours of wear, and it has that light citrus scent that takes me back to eighth grade when I fell in love with the brand. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor
Medicube Age-R Booster Pro Mini
I've been using this Korean beauty tool — the travel-sized version of the viral, celebrity-loved Medicube Age-R Booster — for a few weeks now and actually see a difference. It's become my favorite part of my nighttime ritual to use this with my hydrating serum and moisturizer. You can feel it stimulating your skin, similar to microcurrent, and it helps the products absorb. After the five-minute treatment, my skin looks glowy and radiant. Even when I've been breaking out, it boosts the overall look of my skin. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor
PopSockets MagSafe Kick-Out Grip and Stand
I thought the MagSafe-compatible PopSocket I started using in the past couple of years was as good as it could get, but this new model features a small hinge that unlocks the vertical/portrait orientation stand mode that comes in handy everywhere from the office to wherever else you go. Speaking of which, while I liked the Kick-Out at first, it took over the back of my phone after it proved invaluable in helping me take the best selfie atop the Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacán. While I have to remove it when I charge my phone, I doubt it will stay off for long. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer
SanDisk 2TB Extreme PRO Portable SSD With USB4
My phones, SD cards and work laptop have officially run out of space from all the photos and videos we need to take for our stories, which is why this SanDisk portable SSD is one of my new favorite products right now. It's so easy to set up and use, and super fast. Plus, it gives me a whole lot of storage so I don't have to deal with the stress of running out of space while I'm filming content. Because it's so thin and compact, I can take it with me on trips without worrying about the extra burden in my travel bag. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer
Mumba Dockable Clear Case for Nintendo Switch 2
Of all the Nintendo Switch 2 accessories I've tested, this Mumba Clear Case has been the most essential to my daily rotation. This slick protective shell makes Nintendo's new console much more comfortable to grip in handheld mode, which has allowed me to play a frankly concerning amount of Mario Kart World without dealing with any hand cramps. Better yet, its thin and clear design doesn't add much extra bulk to the system — you can even dock your Switch to your TV without taking it off — and comes in a handful of attractive colors. If that sounds like your ideal case, you can save 15% by using the code MUMBACNN15 at both Amazon and Mumba. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor
Sonny Angel A Figurine Fruits Series 2019
There's something to be said about whimsical accessories like the Labubu, and I can't get enough of them. I was a Sonny Angels hater until I treated myself to one for my phone, and I slowly but surely discovered they're a major conversation starter. They also make great, charming gifts, in addition to adding a fun flair to your tech. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer
Logitech Flip Folio
Logitech's latest iPad accessory might be my favorite yet, as the Flip Folio is a stand-and-keyboard hybrid for the iPad Air and iPad Pro that's even more nimble than Apple's pricier Magic Keyboard. Its detachable design means you get an adjustable kickstand with dockable keyboard to take on the go, and its magnets also let you stand your iPad upright in the vertical portrait orientation for composing documents and browsing the web without worrying it might slide left or right. While its keyboard is comfortable enough for writing emails and messages, I found I loved the kickstand mode the most when I was in bed on vacation and falling asleep to old episodes of my favorite shows. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer
Lenovo Legion Go S With SteamOS
Portable gaming is having an especially hot summer, and while the Nintendo Switch 2 took up a lot of the conversation, I'm more enamored with the other new challenger for the throne. Lenovo's new Legion Go S runs SteamOS, just like the SteamDeck that started the portable gaming PC category. That means it's a lot easier to use than the Windows 11-based version of the Legion Go S that came out earlier this year. Everything from Persona 4 Golden to Baldur's Gate 3 is running well on my test unit, which features the faster AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme CPU. I appreciate that it supports a wide world of games sold in the Steam store and how its screen is sharper than that of the Switch 2. Just think of it as the Nintendo Switch for those who never really cared about Mario or Zelda games — because those are clearly never coming. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer
SocialSomm Wine Subscription
Picking a great wine is no easy feat. That's why I rely on SocialSomm, what they call a 'personal wine wingman.' A virtual 'somm' (sommelier) is ready to guide any curious wine drinker through a range of wines, with the help of a fun, mobile-friendly platform. It makes picking wine even more educational and adventurous. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer
Blue Bottle Coffee NOLA-Style Blend Nespresso Vertuo Capsules, 10-Pack
Pretty much everyone I know is aware that I'm obsessed with my Nespresso machine. I'm always trying the latest coffee capsules that come out (even the bizarre, limited-edition flavors), and most recently, I tried the NOLA-Style Blend from Nespresso's collaboration with Blue Bottle Coffee. Even though the double espresso capsules don't taste exactly like an iced NOLA from Blue Bottle Coffee (which I'm already a fan of), they still have a subtle chicory flavor that makes for an excellent cold coffee. This one will definitely stay in my rotation. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor
Tinto Amorio Chaand Glou Glou Red Wine
This new 'glou glou' from one of my favorite winemakers is a lovable red with the perfect amount of body that's light enough for the summer heat. Chaand has its own complexity because of its harmonic blend of carignan and zinfandel grapes. It's a limited production organic wine, so this one will go fast. Make sure to grab it while you can! — Molly Flores, photo editor
Owala 20-Ounce SmoothSip Slider
While everyone on our team raves about their Owala bottles, I had never tried the brand myself (I'm a bit of a counterculturist that way). After an unfortunate incident with my Yeti that left iced coffee all over my desk, I switched to this leaf-proof Owala tumbler. Now I use it almost every day. The design really is shockingly leakproof. On my commute to work this morning, I threw the full cup in my tote bag so I could move hands-free and not a drop was spilled! It's also great at insulating hot and cold drinks. More often than not, the ice I put in at 8 a.m. is still lingering in the cup when I get home at the end of the day. The sleek design and multitude of fun color options doesn't hurt either. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor Read our review
Flytographer
My husband and I rarely take pictures of ourselves on vacation. (We're not the type to hand our phones to strangers or use a tripod or selfie stick.) So when we went on our belated honeymoon last month, we knew we had to put in extra effort to get the kind of photos we dreamed of. I had heard good things about Flytographer from a friend who uses it to book photo shoots on vacations, so we went ahead and booked an hour-long session with a local photographer in Lake Garda, Italy — the third stop on our trip. Our photographer, Sergiy, made us feel so comfortable in front of the camera and even gave us recommendations on areas to explore nearby. The photos came out incredible, and the entire experience was a highlight of the trip. If you've got a family vacation or trip of a lifetime coming up, I highly recommend booking a session with a local photographer through Flytographer. — Amina Lake Patel, home and gifts editor
BrüMate 35-Ounce Resa Tumbler
You're probably wondering why this photo is upside down, and it's because I wanted to show you that this water bottle is actually 100% leakproof. I know there are dozens of water bottles to choose from, and I have my fair share taking up room in a cabinet, but this one is by far my favorite. It was so thoughtfully crafted that I can't believe it never existed before. From the handle to the soft-sip straw and removable inner stainless-steel straw, there is nothing I don't love about this bottle. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor
Earth Rated Hypoallergenic Dog Grooming Wipes, 100-Count
Keeping my beloved childhood dog, Teddy, nice and tidy is one of my main priorities as his older sister. When he's not wearing boots, I have to make sure his paws are dirt-free and hydrated postwalk. When we come back inside, he patiently waits for me to wipe each paw and even his bum! I prefer the Earth Rated wipes because they're textured, which helps get debris out from under his nails, and the gentle ingredients prevent his paw pads from drying out. — Elena Matarazzo, associate deals editor CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate home and gifts editor Nikol Slatinska asked our team to share the latest products they've tried and can't get enough of.