As we finally get a chance to bask in the sunshine, we also get to worry about putting our best face forward. It doesn't take a lot of effort, but it tends to require a different strategy during warmer months.
So just in case you're wondering how best to brave the blessing of high humidity and even higher temperatures, here are some suggestions for your skin-care routine.
1. Start with reassessing the moisturizers and serums you apply after washing your face morning and night. You might need to use something lighter or at least less layers for day. But don't skip the SPF with UVB and UVA protection. And if you don't know what those letters stand for, get thee online and read our past articles on the topic.
2. Shine control. Blotting paper is great to carry in your purse, but if you start the day with Origins Zero Oil, instant matte finish for shiny places ($12.50) at Dillard's (dillards.com), you'll get a head start on the shine prevention. It's a tiny tube that makes a big impact.
3. Raccoon no more. There are many, many mascaras with many, many different formulas, wands and claims, but the greatest innovation comes from the mascaras that form little tubes around your lashes. They can be removed with cleanser and water, but they do not smudge or smear after they dry. Blinc ($24) at Sephora (sephora.com) or L'Oreal Double Extend Lash Extension Effect Mascara ($8.99) at Target offer options to experience the tube technology.
4. Brows are tricky, and unless you are part of an elite group, you could probably use an item like the It Cosmetics Brow Power universal brow pencil ($24) at CVS (cvs.com). The oval-tipped pencil makes it easier to sculpt more realistic brows. Use it lightly for fair skin and apply a firmer hand for darker skin, but really, it's a matter of gentle brush strokes, not lines. Fill in the gaps, and if you've overplucked, create new volume. This season, big brows are back.
5. Midday refresher: Dickinson's makes towelettes ($4 at drugstores) wet with their gentle witch hazel toner that are a great way to refresh your skin if you're not wearing foundation. Otherwise consider one of the water spritzes. This is also a good time to reapply your moisturizing sunblock.
6. Get your glow. A light dust of bronzer can go a long way to making you feel warm-weather ready. Invest in a big fluffy brush like Burberry's beauty brush, made especially for its warm glow bronzers ($52) at Nordstrom (Nordstrom.com) or a less expensive kabuki brush like a tractable one from EcoTools ($6) at drugstores that you can pop in your purse for touch-ups.
7. Eyes have it. There's a lot of hype about the delicate skin of the eye, and there's a good reason. If you're prone to "looking tired," the right eye gel can be your secret weapon. Creams can be great moisturizers as well, but gels might be a better weight for warm weather (you'll have to gauge your own skin).
Even if you use concealer, you want to make sure the skin around your eyes is well-hydrated. Look for something that works and get two - one for your bathroom counter and one for your purse. A little cooling eye gel can be a nice afternoon pick-me-up, and it usually won't disrupt your makeup if you dab lightly, but if you wear a heavy foundation be careful. Consider something soothing and refreshing like Ole Henriksen's Ultimate Lift Eye Gel ($38) at Sephora or Alba Botanica Green Tea Eye Gel ($17) at Target and Wal-Mart.
