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I'm melting, melting! No, this isn't just a line from The Wizard of Oz, it also applies to how most of us feel about our makeup during the summer. Heat and humidity can virtually wipe the makeup we so carefully applied in the morning right from our skin. And being outdoors in the summer also includes being in the sunshine more and hitting the water on occasion. So what can we do to make our makeup last longer and keep ourselves looking fresh and natural even on the hottest days? Here are a few tips.

#1. Exfoliation. Before we even start thinking about summer makeup applications, we should confront the fact that great summer skin really begins with healthy skin. You should exfoliate more at least once a week during the summer months because the heat and humidity can cause excess oil production. The oil can clog our pores and make our skin more prone to breakouts, so keeping it clean and exfoliated will make makeup application easier.

#2. Sun protection. Always apply a sunscreen before applying makeup. This goes for the colder winter months, also, even though we don't feel like we're getting the same amount of sun when it is cold. But a good oil free sunscreen in the summer will go a long way to protecting your skin from the sun's harsh rays. You may need to apply sunscreen more often when you are outside being active or if you sweat more, but there are great spray on sunscreens now which can be applied while you are outside or after you come out of the water.

#3. Think light! Makeup in the summer should appear fresh and natural. If you have naturally oily skin, you might be able to skip a moisturizer when it is humid. If you have normal to dry skin, switch to a really light oil-free brand during the summer and apply before your makeup. There are many great foundations out there now which have sunscreen already incorporated as part of the foundation, so adding a drop or two of a light moisturizer to the liquid foundation and then applying it to your skin can actually provide three things in one application.

#4. Bronzer. Many of us like the look of a tan but we all know that we shouldn't bake in the sun. Bronzers can give you the look of the sun without the harsh results. Use a bronzer instead of foundation if you have fairly even skin tone. You can apply it in a sweep with a large brush all over your face, or just use it on cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, a sweep along the forehead and chin and it will look natural and pretty.

#5. Lip service. Although many of us don't do it regularly, brushing your lips with a soft toothbrush each night will provide lush, soft, kissable lips, just perfect to apply a light lip stain in a bronze or light pink, followed by a swish of lip gloss. If you aren't one to wear lipstick in general, lips always look nicer with a bit of gloss. Use tinted if you want color without having to reapply everything.

#6. The eyes have it. You can do a lot with a bit of waterproof mascara. It will open your eyes and make you look rested and finished all at once. The waterproof kind will last through humidity and water, so don't be afraid to try it. You don't even need eyeshadow in the summer. Use your bronzer as eyeshadow if you want a bit more color on your face. It will still look natural and fresh.

So, the rule for summer makeup in general is keep it light, keep it natural and don't forget about sun protection. You'll have beautiful skin all summer long and for years to come!

Learn more about this author, Heidi Sinnett.
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