Springtime is finally here, which means summer isn’t far away. After the cold winter months of blistering winds and sub-zero temperatures that warranted layers of creamy makeup, it’s time for a change. Take stock of your current cosmetics choices to see if you might be better-suited with some lighter formulas and amped-up SPF.
Face:
Tinted Moisturizer, BB Cream, or Foundation – If you’ve been using a thick, maximum coverage formula through winter, it’s time to switch-it-up for a lighter product with increased SPF protection. Look for a multi-tasker like Dr. Jart’s Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45 or Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25 PA++, depending on the coverage you need.
Powder – You may not even need a powder every day during warmer months, but for long days when you want your makeup really set, opt for a light mineral formula over heavier pressed powder. Like many, I’ve been using Bare Minerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15 for years and have yet to find anything I love more. To really set a day-to-night look, try a light dusting of Make Up Forever’s HD Microfinish Powder to seal everything in. This powder soaks-up shine without drying out skin.
Blush and Bronzer – Forego those thick cream blushes and dark bronzers from last season for a time-saving duo that adds rosy cheeks and a golden glow with one swipe. Nars has been setting the standard for blush for years, and their Blush/Bronzer Duo in the infamous “Orgasm” coral blush and “Laguna” golden bronzer is a winner for just about any skin tone. Physicians Formula also has one of my new favorites that’s perfect for spring and summer. Their 100% Natural Origin Bronzer & Blush is easy on skin and blends a rosy mauve blush with a soft tan bronzer.
Eyes:
Eye Shadow and Primer – A cream eyelid primer and light powder eye shadow make the perfect combination for keeping makeup light for spring. An eyelid primer is a great way to keep your shadow and liner in place all day, even if it’s 100 degrees outside. I truly have yet to find a better eyelid primer than this steal by ELF at Target. It brightens and helps keep eye makeup from running or sinking into creases. Plus you can’t beat the $2 price tag. Urban Decay has been my go-to for fabulous eye shadow long before they created the iconic Naked Palette. When it comes to warm-weather looks, the Naked2 has every golden shade you need to enhance that budding tan.
Eyeliner – Using a waterproof eyeliner is the best way to ensure your eye makeup stays put, even if you’re sweating at the beach all day. The best one I’ve tried in the past few seasons is the Waterproof Precisione Eye Liner by Cattiva. This black liner glides on and stays put with that rich, saturated color you expect from a liquid liner without the mess. A retractable design means no sharpening and makes this one a great option for touch-ups on-the-go.
Mascara – Every time I go to Sephora I look through their latest mascara offerings to try and top my standard, but I come up empty. Year after year, there’s just no mascara I love more than Christian Dior’s Diorshow Waterproof Mascara. It separates, lengthens, and adds volume. What more could you want? I simply switch to the waterproof formula this time of year so I’m ready to hit the pool, go for a sweaty hike, and more without having to worry raccoon eyes from running mascara.
Lips:
Balm – Lightweight tinted lip balms are the perfect fit for warmer days. They offer added moisture and just enough color to complement a rosy spring glow or summer tan. Fresh offers so many shades of their Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 25. We sometimes forget how important it is to keep SPF on our lips, and this formula packs a punch at 25. I love this balm because it repairs and protects lips while offering the perfect amount of color. My new favorite is Honey, a universal warm nude.
Lipstick – For special daytime occasions or hitting the town at night, a more saturated lip color is in order. Finding the right lipstick formula and color can be tricky, so I like to invest in a color I can where anywhere that isn’t too heavy for the season and still contains an SPF. Rouge Volupte Silky Sensual Lipstick SPF 15 by Yves Saint Laurent is just so decadent. Tons of color, just enough shine, and a perfectly moisturizing formula. I’ll be getting Fetish Pink, a bright, rosy hue for this year.
