August 20, 2008

Everything Is Illuminated

By Daina Hulet

ReZoom's 'Looking Good' Expert

Everything_Is_Illuminated

You won't even need to go outside for sun-kissed skin with our makeup tips.

Welcome to our mini makeup primer that highlights seven ageless makeup picks for the long, relaxed summer days ahead.
Welcome to our mini makeup primer with seven ageless makeup picks for the long, relaxed summer days ahead.

1. Foundation Primer
If you haven't discovered foundation primers, you may be surprised at what you've been missing. Like a paint primer, the makeup version helps foundation go on smoothly (especially over fine lines) and not wear off. Apply it over a clean face or after moisturizing. It's an extra step that's definitely worth the minimal effort.

2. Bronzing Powder
A powder bronzer compact should be at the top of your list for summer. It's definitely the new basic for this season's healthy sun-kissed makeup look.

Bronzing powders can appear a bit frightening in the compact. What do you do with all those shades of tan? Applied in sheer layers with the right brush, they can do wonders for a tired or pale complexion and give subtle definition to your face. Considering the ruddy tones skin can take on as we grow older, keep the red out by layering a bronzer over the sheer cover of a lightweight, tinted moisturizer or strategically dabbed concealer.

When shopping for a bronzer, take into consideration how fair or tanned your face is, as well as the undertones of your skin. Many of this season's powdered bronzers are a mix of shades formulated to work with any complexion, while other are available in a range of tones.

Swirl a bronzing brush or a blush brush into the powder or run it across the compact. Tap off the excess. Dust lightly on eyelids, over cheekbones, at brow bone, temples, jawline and center of nose. Stay away from areas which are creased, particularly the outer corners of the eyes, or other features that don't require additional attention, like a strong chin or a prominent nose. Check the effect of the first swipe of color and add more if needed. The idea is not to look contoured or muddy. And don't forget to blend.

3. Illuminators
Highlight the cheekbones and brow bone with an illuminator. Available in sheer and blush-toned powders, liquids and creams, illuminators catch the daylight and night lights, bringing attention to the eyes.

4. Subdued Eye Shadow Colors
Experiment with taupe, pinkish, beige and other subdued shadow shades, in new creamy crease-resistant waterproof formulas. These tints and the textures look natural for summer. The effect can be eye opening enough to forgo eyeliner, at least for daytime.

5. Waterproof Mascara and an Eyelash Curler
An eyelash curler and waterproof mascara are a summer must-have duo, unless you have the time and energy to have your lashes professionally tinted. Choose a color-enhancing product for day -- thickening and extra-lengthening mascaras can look over-the-top in the heat. The new long lasting, semi-permanent tint from Jemma Kidd's makeup collection lasts up to 24 hours.

6. Lip Accessories
Forgo the lip plumper this summer and go straight for one of the many lip conditioners that not only exfoliate dry lips, but also moisturize and nourish the mouth. These treatments make it easy to maintain smoother looking lips, plus they can be topped with the color product of your choice. For lasting all-day color, try a lip stain in a shade darker than your own mouth. Since the stain goes on flat, layer on a moisturizing lip color or gloss in a subtle peachy, melon or berry tone to plump up the look. These shade choices work well with a bronzer and add a warm pop of brightness to any face without drawing attention to fine lines or creases at the sides of the mouth.

7. Powder Papers
Blotting papers are a convenient way to take a powder in the heat and humidity. Anti-shine papers soak up excess oils and help makeup last longer.

And don't forget your sunglasses.
This summer's oversized sun specs in wraparound, oval and aviator styles not only serve as an extra barrier to block out the sun's harmful rays around the delicate eye area, but with a complexion-enhancing choice in frame colors - red is hot right now - they also can brighten up your whole outlook. An on-trend pair of shades worn with tinted lip gloss are the bare minimum makeup requirements for summer.

As a former runway model and West Coast Editor of "Glamour" magazine, Daina Hulet has been in the business of style for more than 30 years. She's here to help you maintain a truly stylish and sophisticated look that defies all expectations of what "aging" is supposed to look like.

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