There are so many reasons to love summer – open-toed sandals, lemonade, sunshine and of course that elusive summer glow. Even though the cold has its own cozy charm, it can make even the most radiant complexion look dull and sallow. But that’s not to say you can’t have that sun-kissed glow in the middle of winter. With the right techniques and pruducts you can look as if you had just refurned from your dream winter escape.
Step 1: Exfoliate
Reduce your usage of acid peels and toners, because they tend to make the skin dry. You don’t need to give them up altogether, just reduce it to three times a week. Introduce a gentle physical exfoliator to your routine, something that does not contain large or sharp chunks of fruit kernels. I like Bobbi Brown Buffing Grains, which I mix with a cream cleanser. Use a very light hand to scrub only for a minute.
Step 2: Add Moisture and Oil
Use any thick cream to really plump that freshly-exfoliated skin. I love Dr. Hauschka Rose Day Cream for its rich, replenishing effect. Then, once the cream settles in, massage in a face oil. I recommend the Purearth Rosehip Seed Supercritical Face Oil – you only need 3-4 drops of this because it’s so dense and rich.
Step 4: The Right Primer
To make your glow last long in the cold, you need an illuminating primer. Apply the thinnest layer with a foundation brush all over your face. Using a brush will ensure it’ll sit on top of the skin instead of being absorbed. I like the Victoria Beckham for Estee Lauder Morning Aura Illuminating Creme.
Step 5: Create Perfect Skin
Use pinches of a lightweight foundation and blend under the eye, sides of the nose and mouth. Dab over spots and redness but not all over the face – remember you need the lightness of a summer glow. Full coverage foundation will take away the fragility of this look. I like Kevyn Aucoin’s Sensual Skin Enhancer.
Step 6: Bronze and Illuminate
If you want a summer glow, instead of using a bronzer to contour, brush it in a butterfly shape across your cheeks and nose. This will make your skin look sun-kissed. Use a bronzer only two or three shades darker than your skin tone, so the effect is natural. Then apply a highlighter on the periphery (tops of cheek and brow bones, sides of the temple) and centre (top of the forehead, bridge of the nose, chin). I absolutely love Guerlain Terracotta Bronzer and Fenty Beauty Killawatt Highlighter.
Step 7: Don’t Forget Fashion
Step out of your all black outfit into something brighter and glamorous to offset your fresh, summer glow. Try a vintage YSL look with pink lips and oversized coral earrings.
Insider Secret: Don’t forget to have fun! Summer glow means a summer mindset. Don’t let the winter gloom cloud your mood.
