Looking your best can feel like quite the challenge during the summer months, with the combination of heat, humidity and more time spent outdoors putting makeup to the test. All of a sudden, the prospect of wearing a thick, full-coverage foundation no longer appeals, and having to deal with flakey mascara and panda eyes on a daily basis can quickly begin to wear a little bit thin.
The good news, though, is that it’s still possible to achieve a flawless look at this time of year, with added radiance and an enviable healthy-looking glow – and it’s as simple as curating the perfect makeup back ensemble and filling it with luxury essentials that will see you through everything from beach trips and barbecues to sun-soaked wedding receptions in style. The key is to remember that in the summer, less is always more, so it’s all about lighter formulas and products that let your skin breathe, as well as waterproof alternatives to your usual favourites that will get you through sea swims and pool dips unscathed.
Here are five items to add to your makeup bag to stay looking fresh and vibrant, whatever you happen to be doing this summer. Look for reputable brands like L’Oreal, or head to your favourite department store beauty counter for recommendations if you’re unsure which products are the best choice to suit you and your skin’s needs.
Sunscreen
Whilst sunscreen isn’t exactly makeup, it is the most important item for maintaining skin health at this time of year, and should always be applied first. Look for a lightweight, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to shield your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays- and choose a formula that is designed specifically for the face, as these tend to be oil free and absorb more quickly to prevent any greasiness or clogged pores.
Applying sunscreen before your makeup will not only protect your skin but also create a smooth canvas for flawless application – nothing spoils that summer glow like redness and flakiness, and prevention is always better than cure.
Waterproof mascara
If your summer calendar is already packed with holidays, beach trips, and sweaty outdoor activities, then swapping out your usual mascara for a waterproof alternative is a must. Waterproof mascara will allow you to rock the same long, luscious lashes you always do, without unsightly smudges or flaking, and will stay put even in the face of humidity, water and sweat. Look for a formula that adds length and thickness without clumping, and be sure to purchase an oil-based eye makeup remover to ensure you can get it off at the end of the day.
Tinted moisturiser or BB cream
Thick, full-coverage foundations are a no-no during the summer months, so put yours away until autumn and invest in a luxury tinted moisturiser or BB cream instead. Providing sheer coverage and that sought-after summer glow thanks to their light, dewy formulas, they are designed to allow your skin to breathe and let its natural qualities shine through, all whilst evening out skin tone and sufficiently hiding any redness or blemishes. The idea of moving to a light-coverage alternative might feel daunting if you’re used to the ‘done’ look, but they promise a much more natural and fresh-faced look, as well as hydrating the skin and providing some additional sun protection. Plus, they feel far more comfortable on the skin when the sun is at its most intense.
Cream blush
Powder formulas are also best avoided during the summer, and can detract from the fresh and radiant look you’re striving to create by clinging to any dry or flakey areas. Instead, reach for a cream blush, which will blend effortlessly into the skin to give you a dewy and glow and help to keep skin well hydrated throughout the day. Don’t be afraid to get a little bolder with your choice of colour at this time of year – corals and peachy tones will emulate the natural flush spending time in the sun gives you and make you appear more youthful.
Tinted lip balm with SPF
In the same vein, heavy, matte lipsticks should also be put aside for now. Protecting your lips from the sun’s harmful rays is a priority, so look for a tinted lip balm with SPF to add a subtle wash of colour whilst nourishing and hydrating your lips. Shielding them from the sun’s rays will help to prevent any dryness or flakiness, but to keep your lips feeling silky smooth throughout the summer, give them a good exfoliate with a sugar scrub once a week.
