-SLH West Coast Beauty Editor:
Summer is a conundrum of frustration for many of us when it comes to beauty. We want to look effortless, but we also want to be mindful of those harmful rays (read sun-kissed, not sunburnt). Luckily there is an amazing arsenal of products out there to help defend you while keeping you looking fabulous.
Without question, number one on any summer beauty routine should address your skin. You’re going to be showing a lot more of it and the smart diva knows protection is your mantra. How much protection depends on how long you’ll be in the sun (natch). Check those SPF numbers carefully, and always bring along extra for re-applying. Our latest favorite at SLH is Glossier Invisible Shield (35+ SPF). It has that magical quality of great coverage without looking chalky. Looking for the best variety of SPF ranges? Coppertone is our fav, with options of SPF 4 all the way to 50+, offering applications in oils, lotions and sprays. At such a great price point, you can pick up more than one to keep handy, just in case that 30 minute dip in the pool turns into an hour plus post-dip hang out with friends. And remember your post-sun routine to protect your tan and soothe any overindulgences that may have occurred. La Mer The Reparative Body Lotion is hands down our splurge favorite. Didn’t get it ordered on Sephora in time? Turn to the champion of post-sun product for centuries (no kidding – we Googled it!) our good friend, Aloe Vera. Banana Boat and Fruit of The Earth are two brands that carry it in pure gel form, as well as combined with a variety of lotions for a price that won’t break your summer budget.
On the subject of skin, don’t forget about those delicate lips. A day in the sun with no lip protection is like kissing a light bulb (a practice we do not recommend). And be mindful of those heavy winter lipsticks. They look amazing with your January ensemble. July? Not so much. Cherry Chapstick is such a great alternative. Great sun protection with just that little hint of cherry smell – seriously, you cannot go wrong here. But I need more color, you say? Lilah B. Tinted Lip Balm can come to your rescue. With a wide color selection, you’re sure to find your shade. Gloss-loving gals? We have you covered – Honest Beauty Lip Gloss keeps you shining without feeling sticky or goopy when the temperature rises.
And while summer plays well with a natural face, we all know there are times when we’d like to have a little backup. Almay waterproof mascara wears like iron, but with hypoallergenic ingredients that keep you batting those lashes without irritation. Some other great ones out there – Diorshow Black Out Waterproof Mascara, Benefit BADgal Waterproof Mascara, Maybelline New York Full ‘N Soft Waterproof Mascara (Editor’s Note: avoid the New York Volum’ Express The Falsies Black Drama Waterproof however – we found it way too clumpy). For us here at SLH we love, love, love Lancome Hypnose Waterproof Custom Volume Mascara. It goes on smoothly, wears very well and comes off easily. In the words of one staffer “this is the most non-‘waterproofy’ waterproof mascara I have ever worn!”
Heading to a summer wedding? Keep your look from melting in the heat with waterproof eyeshadow. Loreal makes over 12 shades in their waterproof line, and for all day wear, their Infallible line gets top marks. Rimmel crème eyeshadows are great for dramatic looks, as is the Covergirl Katy Kat collection. Our advice with these cream shadows is to practice a bit before your event. Creams work best with a skilled hand. Nervous about parting ways with your favorite non-waterproof standby? Thanks to NYX Cosmetics you don’t have to! Put on their waterproofing primer before adding your regular brand and feel confident you are set for the day.
Wherever your beauty adventures take you this summer, don’t forget your summer regimen! It will make all the difference in keeping you looking and feeling like the summer goddess you are.
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