Stay-Put Makeup Secrets

Outdoor events seem to multiply in June. Weddings, graduation parties, cocktail parties on the deck, and dining al fresco. It seems since we spend a great deal of the winter inside, once the warm days and balmy nights arrive we create things to do outside!

Truth be told, I will brave any element, rain (“It’s only spitting”), wind (“It makes my hair look fuller”), mosquitos (“They are only around for a little while at dusk”) to enjoy entertaining outdoors. And nature, once it awakes from its cold weather slumber, does not disappoint with its glorious backdrops, especially here in Minneapolis, making the outdoors the perfect stage for any special event.

So with all these events to attend, how do you keep your cool without having a makeup meltdown?

First, prepare. Start with clean skin that has been exfoliated (I can’t tell you how addicted I am to my Clarisonic). Exfoliation is key! If nothing else, wash your face and use a wet, but wrung out, washcloth to gently exfoliate your skin. Use a small, gentle, circular motion going upward and outward on the entire face and neck area. This not only removes makeup residue and dead skin, but it actually signals the skin to produce new cells which gives the skin a fresh, bright, glowing look.

Less is more. This is my mantra—keep repeating it. Opt for a tinted moisturizer or a BB cream (a Beauty Balm makeup with skin-care benefits) instead of a foundation. Unless your having one of those I-need-all-the-coverage-I-can-get weeks.

Try one of my favorites:

Giorgio Armani Face Fabric Foundation SPF 12
This tinted moisturizer (top right) has something called 3D Micro-fil technology, which enhances the natural glow of the skin. It gives you a 12 SPF, and I love that it doesn’t settle into fine lines or wrinkles. It gives you a sheer flawless, more matte finish. Apply lightly; layer as needed for more coverage. It can be used in combination with concealer.

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream, SPF 35

This product will even out skin tone, without looking heavy, and minimizes shine. Plus, it gives you SPF 35 coverage. BB creams improves skin moisture, and this one has has anti-aging peptides for a decrease in fine lines over time. It’s versatile—it can also be used under foundation as a primer/SPF or in combination with a concealer.

Benefit Benetint Cheek and Lip Stain

This is a long-time favorite because it’s oil free (meaning, long lasting), won’t melt in the heat, and it has a natural-looking finish. It was originally formulated for exotic dancers, so
you know it has to last. Plus you can also use it to stain your lips. Tip: Apply after foundation and blend quickly; layer for more intensity.

MAC Paint Pots

They go on creamy for easy blending and dry to a truly creaseless (no retouching needed), long-wearing finish. Try Reubenesque, a golden peach, for day and Constructivist, a neutral shimmering brown, for evening. Apply from lash line to just past the crease. Blend well.

Clarins Double Fix Mascara

This product can be used as a primer before mascara, after mascara application to seal and waterproof your favorite formula, and even to groom unruly brows. Apply under and/or over mascara for long-lasting, waterproof wear.

NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil

These chubby pencils deliver beautiful, highly pigmented colors and wear wonderfully while leaving your lips feeling comfortable. For day try Dolce Vita, and for evening my personal favorite—Dragon Girl. Outline the lips first, then fill in.

So go ahead and RSVP to all those outdoor events; this kit will make sure you’re camera-ready all day or night.