Safe, Sexy Summer Skin

BY MISTER MAKEUP (a.k.a. David Maderich): www.DavidMaderich.com

Main photo: Rob Epstein

It’s summer, darlings! This is the perfect time to relax in the sunshine, sip a Cosmo, kick off your Louboutins and enjoy the warm weather. But don’t let that Cosmo go to your head – a sunny day doesn’t mean you can skimp on skincare.  No way, missy.

Save Face

Of course, every fashionista knows that sunscreen is as essential to summer as a new pair of Gucci sunglasses.  My new favorites are light, non-greasy lotions.  Try Paula’s Choice Sun Care Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF and The Healthy Sun Screen SPF 30 Body Cream by Lavanila Laboratories  Be sure to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outside. And don’t forget the back of your neck, ears, hands and hairline.

Simpler Self-Tanning

I say embrace the pale, but for those of you that covet a J Lo glow, it’s all about self-tanner. Self-tanning products just keep getting better and better every year – now they’re easier to apply and have smoother, more believable results.

Before applying self-tanner, it’s essential to scrub your skin for a flawless finish.  Jump into the shower and rub Shea Moisture Organic Argan Oil & Raw Shea Body Scrub all over your body and rub, rub and rub some more.

Once you are as smooth as a baby’s bottom, it’s time to get glowing. I think the best way to apply self-tanner is with disposable rubber gloves. Cover every inch of your body – use extra care and apply sparingly to your elbows and knees to avoid dark spots. When finished, remove gloves and coat your hands with lotion and rub your wrists to blend the self-tanner to your hands.  Allow to dry for 15 minutes before getting dressed.

I love Babor’s Self-Tanning Skin Radiance Foam  – a gently streak-free mousse that smoothes on like whip cream and is loaded with anti-aging extracts –heaven!  And Supergoop Gradual Self-Tanning Sunscreen Mousse SPF 20 is the perfect product to apply if you are heading outdoors – color and protection in one tube.  I adore this product because it won’t stain towels.

To add extra glow and to extend your tan, try this trick I use on models and red carpet celebrities. Spray a touch of Sally Hanson Airbrush Shimmer Spray  on your legs, arms and shoulders for instant glamour!  Try adding a quick spray to your cheekbones, too.

Keep it Clean

After a day at the beach or clubs, it’s important to cleanse away the oil and grit. I like to use a stronger facial cleanser during warm weather.  Try Biore Combination Skin Balancing Cleanser. Oil-free and purifying, this cleanser is perfect to remove makeup and grime without disturbing the skin’s natural moisture balance. If you’re on the go, try Comodynes Easy Peeling New Face Effect Towelette. Toss once of these packets – sold in a box of eight – in your purse and you can have a facial anywhere – perfection.

Before applying makeup on hot days, try Mally Perfect Prep Poreless Primer with SPF 15.  This lightweight gel will zap your pores and help keep your skin matte.

Pout Protection

Finally, don’t forget your lips – they get sunburned, too.  Try smoothing a moisturizing lip balm under your lipstick or wear alone– I can’t live without Elizabeth Arden 8-Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick SPF 15. If your lips are dry and flakey from the sun, try Skinny Girl Lip Scrub that exfoliates and moisturizes.

That’s it for this month, sweeties! Remember, summer is short, so get out there and enjoy.