A Gentle Approach
For those of us who eagerly anticipate summer as a time to hit the road—or simply enjoy the great outdoors— navigating practical challenges during the hot months can be a bit disheartening. Issues like melting makeup, perspiration, and the ever-necessary reapplications of sunscreen can leave us yearning for the cooler days of Labour Day.
Fortunately, natural cosmetic solutions are available to tackle these summer nuisances and restore ease to our sunny days. Embrace lightweight summer makeup to achieve a radiant complexion while safeguarding your skin from sun exposure.
Step 1: Establish a protective base
The cornerstone of your summer makeup routine should be a high-quality natural sunscreen, serving as a crucial layer beneath other makeup products. This is a misconception that individuals with darker skin tones do not require sunscreen—every skin type can suffer damage from sun exposure.
Key ingredients to seek
Despite the Environmental Working Group’s concerns regarding potential risks of nanoparticles in certain mineral sunscreens, it continues to recommend broad-spectrum mineral options, particularly in cream formulations over sprays. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are regarded as the premier ingredients for effective sunscreens.
Exercise caution with SPF values exceeding 50, as they may not provide the anticipated protection. Additionally, avoid sunscreens that include vitamin A, which may increase the risk of skin cancer.
Application guidelines
Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to your skin, ensuring to include your neck and chest. Regardless of the SPF selected, reapplication every two hours is vital.
Step 2: Apply a light coverage
Wave goodbye to full coverage! Makeup artist Nav Uppal notes, “Summer heat and humidity often lead to makeup sinking into your pores, which can trigger breakouts. Sometimes, less is truly more!” Her preferred product? “A feather-light tinted moisturizer that evens skin tone while achieving that effortless ‘no makeup’ effect!”
Bronzer can also be utilized to create that sun-kissed look without harming your skin.
Ingredients to focus on
When selecting tinted moisturizers—or any cosmetics—be sure to scrutinize the ingredient labels. Avoid harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). For bronzers, check for talc, which can pose inhalation risks and might be tainted with asbestos fibers, so it’s best to avoid it.
Prior to making a purchase, consider trying a sample or consulting store personnel for assistance with color matching, as bronzers can appear too orange without the correct shade.
Application tips
Tinted moisturizer
With clean fingers or a natural makeup brush, apply tinted moisturizer for a fresh, dewy look. Be sure to blend into the temples and neck for seamless coverage.
Bronzer
To achieve a softly radiant summer glow, apply natural bronzer to areas where the sun would naturally hit—such as cheekbones, forehead, and the bridge of the nose. Some bronzers feature a touch of shimmer, contributing to a luminous finish.
Step 3: Embrace minimal makeup
Summer makeup can vary widely, from understated to vibrant bursts of color; there are no strict rules.
What to prioritize
Instead of layering multiple products, summer is the perfect opportunity to utilize multifunctional cosmetics. Lip-and-cheek formulas are great for travel and spontaneous touch-ups, particularly on days when you prefer a minimalist look. “Finding shades that appear natural can be challenging,” indicates Uppal. “As a tip: the hue at the center of your bottom lip usually complements your natural lip and cheek tones perfectly!”
While the allure of glossy lip products may be strong, reconsider. Shiny lip formulas can attract UV rays, exacerbating sun damage. Opt for a natural lip balm with SPF—many non-toxic and even tinted versions can be found at health product stores. These often contain beeswax or can use nourishing coconut oil or shea butter for vegan options.
During summer, many choose to forgo eyeliner and mascara. However, for those who love their eye makeup, natural waterproof alternatives might be the best choice to withstand sweat, humidity, and swimming.
Application advice
Multitasking lip, eye, or cheek products are typically available in stick formats that can be applied directly to the skin or in small containers for fingertip application. Lightly dab and blend well for a seamless finish.
Apply lip SPF similarly to how you use facial sunscreen—before heading outside and reapplying every couple of hours. This can also be layered beneath matte lipsticks for a creamy finish suitable for sun exposure.
Step 4: Set it for longevity
Uppal swears by summer setting sprays to “extend wear and eliminate any powdery finish from your makeup, mimicking a more natural, skin-like appearance!”
What to search for
Look for natural setting sprays or toners at nearby health retailers. Common ingredients include lavender and grapeseed extract. “I personally favor rosewater for its hydrating benefits,” adds Uppal.
How to apply
After finishing your makeup, mist your face with the spray while keeping your eyes closed. Spraying occasionally throughout the day can also help with hydration and create a cooling effect.
