When you’re about to reveal serious skin, every beauty choice counts. Here are some need-to-know tips for your summer skin care routine. You’ll look holiday ready in no time…
Master summer skincare
Sticky, shiny skin is a given in warm weather and sometimes it’s easier to just go with it. However, small skincare tweaks can help you feel fresher. Store your oil and cleansing balms and use a soap-free wash instead; invest in a hyaluronic acid-packed gel-cream like Guerlain Super Aqua-Crème Day Gel, R1 620, to hydrate without heaviness; and avoid over scrubbing. With higher UV levels, you need to protect your skin barrier as much as possible. A gentle buff once a week really is enough.
Tailor your UV protection
Wherever you’ll be this festive season, there’s a smart working SPF formula to match.
- On the Beach: Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport SPF50, R490 offers high high-factor protection in a splash- and sweat-proof formula that lasts.
- Poolside: Clicks Sun Protect Wet Skin Sun Screen SPF30 Swim and Sport Spray, R99,95 can be applied straight after a swim.
- City Slicking: Crème de la Mer SPF50 UV Protecting Fluid, R985 (011 516 3000), is packed with antioxidants and hydrating seaweed to protect against free-radical damage from pollution.
Know the golden rules of bronzing
A sweep of Bronzer looks so pretty and youthful when used just toad warmth, rather than dramatically change your skin colour. Pick a bronzer that’s two shades darker than your skin tone and apply with a medium-sized brush in a figure 3, down the sides of your face – forehead, cheekbones and chin- then sweep your brush down the middle as well. I love the gorgeous Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Soft Shimmer Bronzer, R545, available in four shades (esteelauder.co.za)
Try this magic trick
Applying blush to cheeks after bronzer for an added glow is nothing new, but try blending some on to your brow bones and beneath your chin, as well. It gives your whole face a natural looking lift. A pretty pink blush to try is MAC Sharon Osborne Powder Blush in Sweet Williams, R300 (maccosmetics.co.za).
Be open to orange
Orange-toned corals bright light to your face. Try MUD Lipstick Colours in Lucky, R270 (mudsa.co.za) or Korres Mango Butter Lipstick SPF10 in Coral, R310 (available at Edgars), over a warm nude for a soft, modern take.
