(Published in The Observer on Sunday, 8 April, 2012)
While makeup is meant to be on your face, keeping it there gets a lot harder once the summer heat starts – from cakey foundation, sliding eyeliner, super sticky lipstick and constantly shiny skin, the summer months bring a variety of makeup woes which can leave your make-up looking less than flawless.
Sharron Eyers, a makeup artist and owner of Le Visage, suggests opting for sheer and light-weight formulas which allow the skin to breath, giving a natural fresh look which is perfect for hot summer days. Here are her top tips.
Primer
Primers are a worthy investment in the hot summery months helping to effectively hold makeup in place. Sharron explains that not only do the skin-conditioning formulas leave skin with a “soft, dewy finish,” but they also create an impeccable canvas for faultless makeup application. Apply before foundation.
Bronzer
Everyone looks better with a little warmth to their skin. Available in creams, gels and powders, bronzer helps give the illusion of a gorgeous, healthy, sun kissed glow and can help make your eyes look brighter and teeth whiter too. “A cream or gel bronzer can replace foundation or be used in addition for extra coverage,” Sharron says. “Apply the bronzing cream or gel before foundation then finish with a light dusting of the bronzing powder.”
Tinted moisturizer
Swap foundation for a tinted moisturizer, which will look and feel airier on the skin and is less likely to turn cakey on steamy days. “A tinted moisturizer gives a natural sheer finish, whereas heavy textured foundations tend to create a thick appearance and sometimes even melt on the face. Many also include an SPF, which will offer that much needed protection during the summer months. Apply after your moisturizer or instead of depending on your skin type.”
Tinted lip balm
Switch heavy lipsticks for a light and breezy tinted lip balm, which offer sheer coverage with a subtle pop of colour. “Tinted lip balms are perfect for a natural summer makeup look. Not only do they have moisturizing benefits, but many also have SPF to help protect the lips too.”
Blush
Pick a multi-purpose cream blush, which can also add a pop of colour to lips too. “Sheer cream blush brightens cheeks and lips with creamy, translucent colour. The sheer tint adds a glow to the cheeks while lips bloom with fresh, radiant colour. Cheek and lip stains are also a great choice in the summer months, since they react to your personal PH level to create the perfect shade every time.”
Mascara
Panda eyes aren’t cute any time of year, but regular mascara can melt in the heat of summer, so switching to a waterproof formula is a must to ensure it stays in place.
Joanna Lewis 