Call me the Wicked Witch of the Valley, because I’m MELTING.
I’m not one to complain about sunshine and beautiful weather but the heat and humidity really takes a toll on me — my beauty routine especially. It’s even WORSE when we’re not getting any sun but just lots and lots of hot rain. Hi, NEPA summer!
I know I can’t be the only one so I put together my summer beauty essentials that will make you look as hot as the weather.
Hyaluronic acid-based moisturizer
Whoever needs to hear this: you sill need moisturizer in the summer, especially if your skin is oily. A light, hyaluronic acid based one will help draw in moisture for plumpness and will soften fine lines, as well as give your skin a drink. Try Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream which is made with essential green like kale, spinach and green tea for an ultimate vitamin shot for your face. It also smells like a salad.
UVA/UVB hair protection
We know the sun wreaks havoc on our skin but it’s also affecting our hair. The sun’s rays damage the cuticle and fade color. To protect your hair and the time and money you spent in the salon chair, try OGX Fade-Defying Orchid Oil Color Protection with UVA/UVB filters. After washing hair, towel dry and spritz all over. Then, blow dry to infuse the product into hair shafts. You also can spray all over dry hair for shine and added hydration thanks to orchid and grape seed oils.
Tinted moisturizer with SPF
A tinted moisturizer helps give just enough coverage without looking like a mask. Snagging one with an SPF is an added bonus. Try Rosilliance Mineral BB+ Cream Tinted Organic Sunscreen SPF 30 for just enough color to even skin tone. You’ll also be protected from the sun for a total one-two-punch.
Creamy concealer
Concealer makes us look like a million bucks with minimal effort. On hot, sweaty days, you want something creamy and light that moves with you skin and doesn’t cake. Try Glossier Stretch Concealer for the perfect coverage that won’t look dry and dusty. The best part? This concealer is so smooth, you can apply with just your finger. Blend in under eyes, around nose and on eyelids.
Bonus tip: If you’re oily and must set with powder, use something super light-weight such as Maybelline Fit Me! Matte + Poreless Powder.
Lips, cheeks, brows
As we’ve discussed, everyone looks better with a little color and a defined brow. There’s no need to do a full LEWK, though, as I’ve sweat off my lipstick and brows one too many times. Try Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek for subtle, buildable color that won’t look harsh, and use Glossier Boy Brow to fill in sparse areas and put stray eyebrow hairs in their place.
Face mist
Remember the giant mists that cooled you off while you waited in line at Dorney Park? This is that but chic and portable. Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea is light so it won’t disrupt your makeup. Use as often as you like — in between skin care steps, before makeup, midday — anytime you need a cool, refreshing boost.
GOT ANY SUMMER BEAUTY TIPS OR PRODUCTS? I’D LOVE TO HEAR THEM. LET ME KNOW AT GMAZUR@TIMESSHAMROCK.COM, @GMAZURTT ON TWITTER OR @MISS.GIA.M ON INSTAGRAM.
Gia Mazur is an award-winning staff writer and beauty obsessive who joined The Times-Tribune’s Lifestyles department in 2015. She’s a product enthusiast who can’t live without an eyelash curler. A proud Virgo, Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk is her go-to. Contact: gmazur@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9127; @gmazurTT
