Follow These Steps to Achieve a Beaming Summer Glow (Even During the Winter Months... )
The winter blues are a real thing; the tan lines are fading, the days are getting shorter and it's getting chilly. While laying in the warm sun may seem like a distant memory, it doesn't have to be! By simply following these steps, you'll look (and feel) like you just hopped off the plane coming back from your summer home in the Bahamas.
Step 1: The Base
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Tanning Mousse
The first step to achieving a summer glow is getting that effortless tan. I don't know about you, but being tan boosts my confidence times one hundred. Along with making you look like you spent two weeks in Cali, being tan evens your complexion. I am fairly pale and find that the shade light bronze works best for me. However, if you are naturally darker toned or are looking for a more intense and immediate tan, Jergens Tanning Mousse comes in Deep Bronze as well.
Self tanning is a much cheaper, quicker, and safer option than getting spray tans or using tanning beds. Before use, make sure to moisturize any dry parts of the body such as elbows, ankles, and knees. To apply, use a tanning mitt (I've linked one here) to evenly spread the mousse along the whole body. Don’t forget to get your neck, face, ears, feet, and underarms. If a deeper tan is desired, let dry overnight and repeat the next day.
You can find Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Tanning Mousse here for $13.99.
Step 2: The Face
Ofra On the Glow Highlighting Palette
This palette from Ofra contains everything you need to look like a gleaming summertime goddess. Consisting of three best selling highlighting shades, two bronzers, and one bronzer/blush triangle pan, this palette has you covered.
To apply the bronzer, follow the natural shape of your cheekbones. Then, deepen up the jawline and frame of the face. Apply the highlight to the upper side of the cheekbones, as well as the bridge of the nose and underneath the arch of the brow. Lastly, use the bronzer/blush duo to add a hint of sun to the apples of the cheeks. I find using a dual-ended brush like this one is great for saving space and money! Use the rounder side for bronzer and the tapered side for highlight.
After applying the Ofra On the Glow Palette, I can promise you'll look like a dewy and sculpted beach babe, ready to hit the waves. Find it here.
Step 3: The Eyes
MAC DazzleShadow Liquid
Ever dreamed of being a real-life mermaid? Make that dream come true with MAC’s DazzleShadow Liquid eyeshadow.
This highly pigmented liquid glitter is perfect for on the go application. Simply swipe across the eyelid and pat in with your finger. And voila! Instant mermaid festival vibes!
With shade names like Beam Time, Every Day is Sunshine, and Rayon Rays, you can almost feel the warm summer breeze blow by. The non-creasing formula gives off eight hours of lustrous glamour.
You can find it at Ulta for $22.00
Step Four: The Lips
Sara Happ The Lip Slip One Luxe Gloss
In both the winter and the summer, lips can get extremely chapped. Trade out your boring lip balms for this Sara Happ lip gloss. The high-gloss formula will leave your lips velvety smooth, with just the right amount of pout. Now all you need is a glass of lemonade and a spot by the pool to perfect your summer look.
You can use this lip gloss alone for a polished sheen. Or, try applying over a lip color to add an extra touch of glow. Use any time of the day to hydrate and heal your lips.
Shop the Sara Happ One Luxe Gloss here for $17.00
Step Five: The Hair
Herbivore Sea Mist Coconut + Sea Salt Beach Wave Hair Mist
Mist away the cold weather and say aloha to the sound of the tide rolling in on the beach. Breathe in the scent of fresh saltwater and coconut with the Herbivore Hair Mist.
Perfect for obtaining plain sailing beach waves, this mist adds texture, volume and a subtle wave to natural hair. To apply, simply spray throughout hair. I find it works best if after misting, you scrunch the hair to help achieve the tousled look. This product is also wonderful to add to the hair after curling with a hot iron. It will add a loose and carefree finishing touch.
Excellent for all hair types, you are sure to find bliss in this lightweight, aloe-infused mist. Plus the coconut and vanilla give off a zealous, tropical scent. Find it here for only $20.00
Step Six: That Extra Little Somethin’
Starlit Studio Liquid Mercury Shimmer Mist
Add the finishing touch to your summer makeover with this shimmer mist. It will leave your skin dazzling all day long!
To apply, spray along the chest and neck region. You can also mist over the face and hair to add an extra pop of glitter. This mist would be perfect to use for a holiday party, a night out on the town with your boo, or even a trip to the mall to finish up your holiday shopping. The tropical scent of the Starlight Studio Liquid Mercury Shimmer Mist offers a hint paradise to counter the frigid temps outside.
Find it here for $10.00 at Target.
Even if you have to trade in the swimsuits and jean shorts for a cozy sweater and mom jeans, sometimes all you need is a summer inspired makeover to say goodbye to the winter blues.