I know it's not officially summer yet, but here in the South it's been summer for over a month. Our temperatures have been set to hot and humid since at least mid-May, and I haven't even bothered unpacking any of my sweaters since moving.

There's really no secret ingredient when it comes to surviving a Southern summer, but there are some things out there that make it better. So I thought it'd be fun to share some of my favorite products to make this often-unbearable season easier to withstand.

Jergens Natural Glow - This has been my go-to for summer color for years. I use the fair to medium skin tone. What I like about this is that even if I apply it a little too heavily in a spot or two, it's not super obvious that I did. It's also never orange, and it leaves my skin nice and soft, like lotion.

Mine Rapid Recovery After Sun Gel - I got this in my FabFitFun summer box last year, but it's so good, y'all. As a redhead, I've had my fair share of bad sun experiences, and this gel is the best I've ever used. Not only does it help with pain, but there is a marked difference after using it.

Time & Tru Utility Shorts -  I have these in the sandstone pink, sea turtle, and studio blue. I love that they can be dressed up or down depending on the shirt you pair them with. And even if you choose a t-shirt, they still feel a little more polished than a pair of jean shorts. I wear size 6 in this brand.

Sofia Jeans Lila Mid-Rise Destructed Hem Denim Shorts - These are my favorite casual shorts to wear around the house, and even out and about for casual activities. They are amazingly comfortable and surprisingly versatile. I wear them in size 6.

Sinex Saline Ultra Fine Nasal Mist - This time of year is hell on my nose. It's either running, stuffy, or so dry it hurts. But this spray is so amazing. It helps clear up congestion without burning or simply rehydrates my dried-out nasal passages. It's so gentle that even Alexis will use it without grumbling.

Monat Hydrate & Refresh Face Mist - This is one of those products I've seen talked up by a bunch of people, but I've only recently started using, and I'm kicking myself for waiting so long to try it! One thing I've always struggled with having sensitive skin is finding a non-irritating makeup setting spray. Well, when I saw that this could be used for that, I knew I had to try it, and it does not disappoint. In fact, it works better than any other setting spray I've used without aggravating my skin!

Monat Wave Spray - This is a product I've been waiting to come back around since starting Monat last year. Thankfully I had the good sense to buy two bottles because it's already sold out! And for good reason. This product is pretty amazing. You can use it on damp or dry hair. I really like it as a curl/wave refresher on day two of my wash cycle. Then on day three, all I have to do is spritz with water to reactivate it. Perfect for summer. I do wish they'd make this a year-round product though.

Monat Purifying Vinegar Rinse - This rinse is great for days when my hair feels dirty but it’s too soon to wash, which happens a lot in the summer.