Summer is finally here, and you’ve swapped your long sleeves and pants for shorts and tank tops. But your wardrobe isn’t the only thing in need of an update this July. The cosmetics you rely on in winter, spring and fall are no match for the excess oil and sweat your body will produce over the next few months.
Not to worry! We have you covered—just like your broad-spectrum, water-resistant, SPF 30 sunscreen. Following are some simple and effective ways to adapt your make-up routine for summer:
1. Remember less is more
Intense heat and humidity can melt your carefully applied makeup in minutes. If you don’t want to spend your summer tending to smears, smudges and sweat streaks, consider using minimal makeup, like a dab of concealer to cover undereye circles, clear, smudge-proof mascara to elongate lashes and a swipe of tinted lip gloss. Find your favorite summer-y shades using the color palette feature when you shop popular beauty brands at Vitacost.
2. Forget the foundation
Matte foundation can appear too heavy in summer—especially if the heat is causing it to run down your face. Opt for a lightweight tinted moisturizer or BB cream instead. If you just can’t take a break from your beloved foundation, choose a sheer variety and mix it with an oil-free moisturizer. Then set it with a translucent powder.
3. Deepen your shade
Whether you choose to use tinted moisturizer, BB cream or foundation, be sure to select a slightly darker shade for summer. Your skin will likely tan due to increased sun exposure (even if you apply sunscreen religiously), and your old shade might make your face appear pale and pasty.
4. Embrace bronzer
You may be tempted to tan naturally this summer, but a faux glow—in the form of powder bronzer—is a much safer alternative. To achieve a healthy, sun-kissed look, apply a generous amount to your face and neck, paying particular attention to your cheekbones.
5. Pack papers and powder
Summer is synonymous with sweat, so it’s inevitable you’re going to glisten. Stash some blotting papers and pressed or loose powder in your purse or backpack for an instant touch up anytime, anywhere.
6. Stick with waterproof
Nothing combats summer heat quite like waterproof mascara and eyeliner. But it doesn’t stop there. Nowadays, there are concealers, foundations and even blushes designed to withstand perspiration, afternoon thunderstorms and even the swimming pool.
7. Focus on the eyes
Natural-looking lids are a popular choice year-round. But summer provides the perfect excuse to play up your pretty peepers with a lively pop of color. Start with a light neutral shade and add excitement with a burst of bright blue, green or purple. In the evening, you can’t go wrong with a smoky eye.
8. Choose bright blush
Sun-tanned skin is the perfect canvas for vibrant shades of blush. If you want to stand out this summer (in a good way!) experiment with vivid pinks, corals and even lavender. Now is the time, because you won’t be able to get away with these electrifying looks when your skin takes on the pallor of winter!
9. Perfect your pucker
Strong summer rays can chap your lips, so make a vow to exfoliate them a few times a week. Also, treat them regularly with a product like Babo Botanicals Nutri-Smooth™ SPF 15 Lip Treatment, which moisturizes, softens and contains sunscreen. And when you’re heading out, make a summer statement with moisturizing lipstick in a bold shade of coral, orange, hot pink, purple or red!
