Sensational Summer Make-Up: Top 3 Must-Haves

The summer holidays are drawing near: get your make-up bag summer-ready with Beauty Editor Arif Isikgun’s top tips for a flawless look that won’t melt when the mercury rises…

As summer approaches, we tend to get excited about the glow the sun will impart on our skin and the wonders of what a healthy tan can do both for our mood and overall appearance. You’ve booked a pedicure, and maybe a new hair-do – but have you sorted out the key products you need to enhance your summertime beauty?

Most of us don’t even realise that we ought to revamp our summer beauty routine. But, just as we change our food and wardrobe when the temperatures soar, so too we should look to our make-up and skin care. Products fit for winter may not work in summer – or at least not work as well to make the most of your summer look.

Here are my three must-have products for updating your perfect summer make-up bag:

1. Super-Natural, Flawless Foundation

The need for heavy cover or foundation dwindles as the heat increases. You don’t want to feel caked in make-up or greasy, and you certainly don’t want to look as though you are wearing heavy make-up. The market has been changing fast, with new base complexion products, new brands and new innovations, including hydrating, extra-lightweight formulas that feel like air on application but coat the skin in a veil of transparent colour. These new products not only give a wonderful glow, but aim to colour-correct and unify the complexion. Instead of people saying your make-up looks good, they will be complimenting your skin. What’s more, if you wanted to use a slightly heavier look for a night out, you can use it as a base for your foundation.

Photo by Azamat Zhanisov

Chanel Les Beiges Eau De Teint Water-Fresh Tint, £48

BEST BUY: Chanel’s newest innovation, Eau de Teint, is a ‘water-fresh tint’ featuring patented micro-encapsulated pigment that melts onto the skin, giving a wonderfully natural glow.

2. Waterproof Mascara: Your Secret Weapon

Less is more, and on days when we just want a pick-me-up and not the hassle of a full face routine, most of us opt for just a touch of mascara. After all, the eyes are the window to the soul. Fluttering lashes add femininity and frame the eyes, starting or finishing any look. With waterproof mascara, you can also be sure that the heat will not melt off your lashes. Just be sure to invest in a dedicated eye make-up remover, as waterproof mascaras can sometimes be tricky to remove.

Credit: Jernej Graj

Estée Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Waterproof Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara, £26, Elys

BEST BUY: Estée Lauder’s Sumptuous Extreme Waterproof Mascara creates volume, length, and 10 hours of smudge-proof lashes.

3. Bronzer: Get A Shine-Free Glow

Bronzing powders are a summer go-to for a quick fix. Not only do they help to unify skin tone, but they also give life and light to the face, creating a natural and healthy look. In winter I advise clients to choose a bronzer with more luminosity, as the cold drains colour; however, in summer, I advise the opposite. Choose a matte bronzing powder – these are especially good if you want to help reduce shine – and touch up through out the day. Always remember that bronzer doesn’t necessarily make you look darker or more tanned: it is used to add an extra dimension and bring unity to the skin. Don’t go too dark when you first apply the product – start minimal and build up to achieve the look you want, as you can always add more.