Just as you change over your wardrobe to accommodate the warmer weather, you need to make adjustments to your makeup rituals too. Celebrity makeup artist Bruce Lindstrom shows you how to shake up your normal routine and look your best this summer.
Foundation
Liquid
No need for the heavy, creamier bases that work well in winter. Try substituting a tinted moisturizer with an SPF in place of your liquid. You’ll get a similar texture with a lighter touch. For extra coverage in trouble spots like under-eye circles, dab on a little concealer just in those areas after you’ve applied the moisturizer. If you’re dead set on sticking with the liquid, apply it with a sponge instead of a foundation brush to create a sheerer application.
Powder
With this loose foundation, you’ll want to opt for a lighter application and a softer texture. Use a large powder brush instead of your disc sponge to achieve this look.
Mineral
If you want to try something altogether different, mineral makeup is a great alternative during the hot months. It mimics the skin much better than liquid or powder foundations, works well in all climate conditions and bonds to the skin while letting it breathe. To get the optimum soft texture, apply it with a Kabuki powder brush (a short dense brush).
Self-tanner
If you use a self-tanner and prefer not to use foundation, follow up with a concealer in any trouble spots and finish with a little translucent powder to round things out.
Eyeshadow
The best eyeshadow for summer is less eyeshadow. Stick to one or two colors—shimmers and metallics work well on their own and really complement a tan (fake or real). Metallic textures create more of a wet, shiny look while frosts are more reflective and will sparkle a lot more. Use a flat brush to apply them to your eyelid. Remember a little shine goes a long way so go easy.
Summer is the perfect time to experiment and be a little daring. Finish off the look with a colorful eyeliner or even a colored mascara, especially if you’re stepping out for the evening. Avoid raccoon eyes and choose waterproof products that will withstand heat, sweat, and swimming.
For best results, always take off waterproof products with an oil-based eye makeup remover.
Blush
Your sun-kissed skin is a great canvas for brighter colors. Apply a pinky or peach shade to the apples of your cheeks. Use an appropriate color for your skin tone—if you’re darker don’t be afraid to go a little bolder.
Frosted blush is a fun option for summer but beware not to overdose on shine. If you want your skin shimmery and dewy, go with a matte eyeshadow. If you prefer frost or sparkle on your eyes, keep your blush more matte. Too much and you’ll end up looking like you’ve worked over a deep fryer all day!
Lipstick/Lipgloss
You can’t go wrong with any of your peachy, beige or buttery golds for summer. If you’re not sure, visit your favorite cosmetics counter and ask for some professional help choosing. Keep it simple—a clear gloss will work over any lipstick shade. Or skip the lipstick and use a tinted gloss on its own.