When it comes to summer you really ought to cut down on the number of cosmetics you are applying on a daily basis and instead reach for those essential items that will provide maximum protection from the sun, offer staying power to protect against humidity and opt for sheerer textures and lighter shades to complement your summer glow. Essentially look at your makeup as you would your wardrobe… would you still wear four layers of clothing in the summer? Well you’d be mad right!?
While sun, sea and salty air can transport our minds to paradise, they can leave skin, hair and nails feeling not so great. Coupled with soaring temperatures summer can take its toll on our bodies.
The Preventative
It is strongly recommended that you always buy new sun cream every year. Cosmetics and toiletries can oxidise and change which may affect their performance. It’s not worth risking your skin for a few pounds! I tried out Clinique’s Body Cream SPF40 & Face SPF40 last summer and after reading a lot of reviews online it came out pretty top notch for protection from ageing and burning effects from UVA and UVB rays, whilst also having the extra benefit of an antioxidant boost. I personally favour a cream protectant as opposed to a transparent spray as this will enable you to be sure you’ve covered all areas when applying!
The Skin Soother
This has to be one of my personal favourites for anything dehydration related, be it from sun exposure, alcohol induced, or generally run down. A face mist is an ideal way to perk up your skin; great if it’s kept in the fridge for a real awakening spritz or keep in your handbag for a quick fix to refresh your makeup throughout the day. There’s loads out there and it’s really just about trying them out to see what suits your personal taste. The Body Shop Vitamin E Face Mist is packed full of antioxidants and smells delicious.
Caudalie Beauty Elixir is an all time favourite of mine. The word that perfectly describes what this product delivers is ‘radiance’. Glass bottles always win me over and this fine spray of essential oils is great for setting makeup for a less ‘done’ look whilst refreshing skin throughout the day and can also be used as a toner. It’s particularly great in the morning to wake you up as it has a slight menthol tinge that really perks you up!
Avène Eau Thermale has to be by far the best and most simple for taking away on holiday. It is ideal for soothing sunburn, great for skin irritation and the perfect prepping layer of hydration to apply before your regular morning serum.
The De-puffer
After a day spent mooching and lounging around in the sun you will most likely find yourself with a rather sorry case of puffy eyes the next morning. To help reduce puffiness, try slicing up a few refrigerated potatoes, soak them in water for a minute or so and then pop them over your eyelids for 15 minutes for a refreshing boost.
The Glow Enhancer
I am an avid fan of the Bobbi Brown Shimmer Bricks. Believe me when I say, there is a very good reason they are a best seller. I like to use the Beige shimmer brick in winter and for summer switch over to Bronze which works great as an all over glow used over a tinted moisturiser. What’s a real bonus with this product is it can be used in a multitude of ways. Use as a cheek bronzer or sweep over the eyelids to create a natural enhanced eyelid. Essentially, this will cut down the amount of products you need to take with you on holiday, meaning more space in your suitcase for souvenirs!
The ‘Green Look’ Avoider
As a peroxide blonde myself this is a major concern as the summer holidays role around. Nobody wants to return from their jollies with a beautiful golden tan paired with a bright green do! So the big question is how do you prevent this? There are a few handy tricks I’ve picked up over the years. Firstly, before swimming rinse your hair with clean water. This saturates the hair to minimise the amount of chlorine able to get into the hair shaft. I then cover my whole hair in conditioner. I like the Naturtint Nutrideep Multiplier as it contains sunflower extract, which has natural UV protectant properties. Applying a coat of conditioner acts like a barrier. I then use a hair clip and clip my hair up off my face and shoulders. Luckily, the slicked back, wet hair look is very on trend! Lastly, after a day at the pool or in the sea always wash your hair as soon as possible using a clarifying shampoo. This will remove any salt and chlorine to prevent maximum damage.
So as we jet to sunnier climates for our holidays remember to take extra care of your skin and hair to ensure you’re looking and feeling your best this summer.
By Belle Pike