My fool-proof summer no-makeup makeup look
I have a love-hate relationship when it comes to summer makeup. On one hand, high humidity makes me wonder if the effort is even worth it, but on the other I want to look pulled together (at least if I’m actually going somewhere). Living in South Florida, I have to keep my makeup to a minimum when the heat is at its height, as just about anything turns into a big old shiny mess minutes after I step outside. Fortunately (with a little trial and error), I’ve assembled a quick, easy makeup look that has become my daily go-to—and it works both day and night with a tweak or two.
Step 1: Kosas Tinted Face Oil
I definitely thought that an oil-based complexion-perfector would be asking for trouble at 90 degrees and 90% humidity—but I was so wrong. Just four drops of this tinted fluid provides medium coverage that evens out my skin tone and imparts radiance with absolutely no greasiness or excess shine. In fact, it leaves you with a velvety finish that looks like healthy, natural skin, just better.
Step 2: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Liquid Concealer
This has become my year-round concealer because it has an uncanny ability to stay put no matter the weather outside. A bit under my eyes and around my nose (and on the occasional blemish) and I’m good to go for the day.
Step 3: Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel
No joke, if I could only use one piece of makeup for the rest of my life, this would be it. Just a bit on my cheeks, forehead, eyelids and, of course, my neck (applied with a fluffy brush), it’s the secret to natural-looking sun-kissed color.
Step 4: Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks in “Petal”
I’ve been eyeing all of makeup artist Gucci Westman’s products since they launched, and I finally ordered this incredible blush stick (once I finished my Charlotte Tilbury one). It’s hydrating, easy to blend and yields a healthy flush that could be mistaken for the real thing—and it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens, phthalates, talc and synthetic fragrances.
Step 5: Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize in “Jean”
Come summer, I tend to be light-handed with the eyeshadow, and this cream-based version provides a budge-proof wash of champagne-pink shimmer that brightens your entire eye area. Apply with your fingers or a brush, and the color is also buildable so you’re in control.
Step 6: Glossier Lash Slick
I’m on my third tube of this mascara—it’s that good. The lash-lengthening and thickening is more subtle than dramatic, but the formula stands up to heat, humidity and exercise without smudging or flaking.
Step 7: Kosasport LipFuel in “Pulse”
Part lip balm, part lip stain and all awesome, this hyaluronic acid-based lip hydrator and protectant leaves lips soft, supple and with a super-natural flush of color. Possibly one of the best products I’ve come across for a low-maintenance lip, the minty flavor is both cooling on contact and delicious.
Evening add-on #1: Pat McGrath PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in "BLK Coffee"
For a little extra oomph while sticking to a minimalist makeup look, I push this up between my lashes and rim my upper waterline.
Evening add-on #2: Roen Beauty Eye Shadow Palette in 52° Cool
Just a dab of the top left shadow in the center of my lid adds sparkle and shimmer without compromising my effortless summer look.
