SUMMER BEAUTY ROUTINE AND MUST HAVES

It’s here!!! I know I’ve said this a few times, but this has been one of the hardest winters for me (and I was even lucky enough to get away…) but as my perpetually positive fiance keeps reminding me – would I be as happy for summer were it not for the awful winter we just had? (Whatever).

Regardless of how we got here, it’s time for my summer beauty routine and must-haves. This routine is actually one of my favourite things to do because you get rid of all the unwanted dead skin + body hair (I tend to slack off on during the winter…) and start to moisturize and bronze your parched skin. I go over everything in the video, but I’ve broken down all the steps for you here:

BODY

1. EXFOLIATE

Get rid of all that dry skin before bronzing up. I like an exfoliator with Shea butter because it keeps your skin hydrated at the same time, which can be an issue for someone with super dry + reactive skin like me.

2. HAIR REMOVAL

I’ve evolved in terms of hair removal. I’m now using an epilator (Philips Satinelle Advanced Wet & Dry Epilator + Pedi, to be exact) and it’s lovely. If I wanted to have smooth legs, I’d have to shave Every. Single. Day. Which is just not happening. Epilators are a cost-effective, fast, and convenient way to keep your skin hair-free and smoother for longer (similar to waxing). It also comes with a pedi callus removal disc, which buffs away dry skin. I need this particularly in the summer when my feet are in flip flops all the time.
Note: A range of other models are available on Amazon and at Shoppers Drug Mart. In Quebec, this model is available at Centre du Rasoir.

3. HYDRATION

If you’ve seen my sensitive skin video, you know how dry and itchy my skin can get. This can get exacerbated by hair removal so I always use lotion after. I’m currently loving La Roche Posay’s Lipikar Baume.

4. SELF TANNER

Once you’re scrubbed and hair-free, it’s time to get your skin glowing. Start slow (you don’t want to get too dark or orange) and make sure you’re using with an applicator glove. It makes a world of difference in terms of even application – I also mention a tip for evenness around knees, ankles, etc. in the video!
Note: wait at least 24 hours after epilating (same with waxing) because your pores are open and the results may be blotchy if applied too soon. 

HAIR

1. TREATMENT

I tend to forget about the health of my hair. I’m not exactly kind to my fine hair (bleach, no conditioner on a daily basis) and the sun can really damage it. Try using a treatment mask once a week (and before going in a chlorinated pool).

2. PROTECT

Before using heat stylers, please use a heat protector. I never used to do this, but it’s just a good idea to start doing at all times, during all seasons. We heat style our hair so much and it can really wear and break down the follicle (and I’m blonde, as well), so it’s important to work a protector into your daily routine.

3. STYLE

My favourite way to wear my hair in the summer is in beachy waves, or in a super easy low ponytail. I also like to finish with a conditioning cream after styling in the summer.

FACE

1. EXFOLIATE

Your face needs a good exfoliation just as much, if not more, than your body. It’s essential to getting that glow and prepping your skin for serum, moisturizer and self tanner.

2. SERUM

Once you’ve sloughed off that dead skin, use a serum that suits your needs (brightening, wrinkles + fine lines, acne help) as it will penetrate better now after exfoliation.

3. SELF TAN

No tanning the face, kids. I use Vita Liberata Dry Oil self tan as the colour is nice and brown and it doesn’t break me out.

4. SUNSCREEN

It may seem backwards to get tan, then apply sunscreen, but we want to preserve your beautiful faces and keep your skin healthy. I wear sunscreen on my face every single day of the year.

5. EASY MAKEUP

On a good day, I don’t want to spend more than 5 mins on my makeup, so when it’s hot outside, I can barely slap product on my face without running out the door. I use one multi-purpose product in particular, to help cut down on time.
Note: Don’t forget to set your makeup, as we sweat a lot more in the summer and I find my makeup doesn’t last as long. 

6. NAILS

I get a lot of questions about my nail colour. I’m super boring and wear the same colour on my nails (and toes!) all the time – CND shellac or Vinylux in Dark Dahlia. Yes, I’m even wearing it for my wedding!

7. PROTECT YOUR FACE + HAIR

Whenever I can, I wear a hat outside in the sun (especially if I’m tanning). My favourites are Janessa Leone (they’re pricey, but the quality is great) – if you’re traveling make sure to pack them properly!

Shot on Canon GX7 Mark II in collaboration with Philips