When the weather heats up, it’s time for a change in the beauty regime. Last week I shared a tutorial of my natural festival beauty, and I wanted to expand on what products I’m using to lighten things up and also protect my skin. For the most part I use a primer and foundation during the workweek, but when it comes to the weekends I like to use products that skin products that include a SPF with a lighter more natural finish. BB/CC creams are great alternatives that both provide light-moderate coverage and can really shorten the time spent in front of a mirror.

Lately, I’ve been using Glo-Minerals tinted primer with 30 spf. I was sent the product to try and really ended up loving the way it blended with my skin. To apply I shake (sometimes SPF products can separate) and put a dime size amount on the back of my hand, from here I apply to my face using my finger-tips. Over the years I’ve learned that the best way to apply these creams is with your hands, this way you can quickly blend the product and let it mix with your natural skin-tone.

The light shade is perfect for my complexion, and has been for the last few months (even with a base tan). I love products that aren’t too specific in shade range and can really span the range for light-dark. A few additional brands I love are Boscia’s broad spectrum cream and Tarte’s tinted treatment. These are much more creamier in consistency but, are great buys nonetheless.

One thing I absolutely cannot deal with is the appearance of greasy eyelids. Year-round I apply a eyeshadow primer to my lids, and my favorite shades tend to be those that are neutral enough to be worn with eyeshadow and also without. Hands-down Urban Decays shadow insurance is a fabulous product that will hold up for several hours. The shades Minor Sin and Eden have a slight sheen and really brighten up the eyes. If you're looking for a wallet friendly option check out Pixi’s eyeshadow primer (seen here).

The best thing I can say that I’ve say that I’ve incorporated into my routine in a tonic mist. These are very similar to facial mist, and can really eliminate a powdery look that makeup can sometimes give off. I’ve used several in the past and have really gravitated toward organic brands like Evanhealy, which you can pick up at Wholefoods. Some other great options are Boscia's ‘balancing tonic’ and Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Coconut Water, which smells incredible!

On the polish front I’ve been wearing blush shades non-stop, Essie’s . The color is light but, has beautiful color pay-off/chip protection, which is great for busy weekend. Another favorite is Formula X’s ‘power source’ and ‘fashion’ by Deborah Lippman.

I want to know which product you are changing up your routine with so I thought I also include a fun giveaway to help get your skin and beauty regime on track! I’m going to keep things super simple and just ask that if you choose to enter please comment and answer the question below:

Which product(s) do you use to ‘lighten’ up your beauty routine?

xoxo,

Birdie