Preparation is Key!
It doesn’t matter what makeup you wear, if your skin is dull and flaky, that’s how it’s going to appear. Gently exfoliate your skin regularly to remove dead, dull skin – not only does that dead skin dull your appearance, but it also contributes to blackheads and spots. Use either a cleanser with small exfoliating beads or a dedicated facial scrub, such as Nivea’s Skin Refining Scrub (around R50)– make sure you massage the product gently into your skin with soft, circular motions for a full minute to get the most out of it.
Even Skin Tone
Skip the foundation and powder for a BB cream. BB creams are essentially multitasking tinted moisturizers and promise to even out your skin tone and give your skin a wonderful glow – a budget friendly favourite is Garnier’s Miracle Skin Perfector (around R80). If you really need the extra coverage, apply your foundation with a damp sponge or brush to avoid it looking too heavy. The key to getting your makeup to last all day, even in the heat of summer, is the addition of primer. I’m excited to try Catrice’s Prime and Fine Smoothing Refiner (around R60).
Shimmer and Glow
A touch of blusher, in a shade that complements your skin tone, adds a wonderful flush when a soft wash is added to the apples of your cheeks. I love The Body Shop’s All In One Blusher (R120). For a sun-kissed look, use bronzer instead – but remember this is definitely a case where less is more! Finish off with a touch of highlighter on your cheekbones and down the bridge of your nose. Beauty budget tip: You don’t need to spend a small fortune on a specialised highlighter. Instead, use a light, shimmery eyeshadow (holographic whites or gold’s work well) and apply with a large slanted brush. You can also use a soft shimmer powder, such as Bella’s Secret from Essence’s Breaking Dawn: Part 2 collection (R40).
Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen!
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you should know by now the havoc solar UV rays can do for your skin. Make sure that the sunscreen you use protects you from both UVA and UVB radiation – in addition to visible sunburn; these rays cause direct and indirect DNA damage.
Bonus
Keep a pack of blotting tissues in your handbag – they’re ideal for easily removing unwanted shine without the need for adding layer upon layer of powder to your face. Try Tea Tree Oil Facial Blotting Tissues from The Body Shop (R55). And, finally, don’t forget to stay hydrated!
Article by: Laura Jane http://www.beautybulletin.com/blog-directory/our-bloggers/whimsy-is-forever