Beauty & Fashion Kuel Thought Leader: Gail Scott
Spring is here and with it comes the sunshine. This month, I am discussing Sun and Beauty!
4 Important Facts About Sunscreen!
“Whatever the highest level of protection you wear, you have that level of protection.”
Sunscreen protection is a must and we should be wearing it all year, but in reality, many of us don’t get serious about it until spring. There is so much to know about sunscreen, and I would be remiss to not share these spring beauty tips. So, here are some of the deets.
1) SPF=Sun Protection Factor, and the number matters.
The higher the number, the greater the protection. SPF Numbers do NOT add together. Whatever the highest level of protection you wear, you have that level of protection. Also, once burned at a level, you must apply a higher level to gain any further protection. Always reapply after swimming or sweating.
2) Formula matters!
Many women are prone to breakouts with sunscreen products. Consider using a PHYSICAL ONLY formula to help avoid a breakout. PHYSICAL-ONLY formulas, often called mineral sunscreens, reflect the sun’s rays on the surface of the skin and do not absorb into the skin like chemical formulas may. Two physical ingredients that are approved by the FDA are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. My favorite formulas? Dr Dennis Gross, Elta MD, and Super Goop. These brands have formulas for everyone. Options include those with a tint and glowing finish, and ones that have a matte finish (no more greasy SPF face).
3) Don’t forget your body.
Apply SPF as you would body lotion before going into the sun.
4) Cover it all!
Don’t forget your lips, ears, and scalp! I look for the highest level of SPF I can find in a lip balm. And throw on a hat to really block some rays.
Your Spring Skincare Needs A Check-Up!
With warmer weather, our skin may not need as much moisture. My big beauty tip for spring? Assess your new needs and adjust your products accordingly. If you have combination or oily skin, you may want to add an oil-absorbing mask or pore cleansing product to hold down congestion in your pores (which makes them look larger). If you will be in the sun, you may need to reconsider your use of retinol for a bit. At the minimum, use a high SPF sunscreen. If exfoliating, either physically or chemically, do that step in the evening. Don’t ever go out into the sun right after exfoliating. Lastly, if you are considering getting a peel, act quickly, as you will need to avoid the sun for a time after having the procedure.
5 Ways To Glow For Summer, Safely:
That sun-kissed glow is the look for summer. The great news is there are lots of ways to get the look without exposing your face to the sun. Here are some faves:
1) Self-tanner has come a long way baby.
This is not your momma’s self-tanner! Formulas have improved dramatically over the years. My favorite for the body is St Tropez foam. I love the color that it provides (not orange at all) and you can adjust the depth of the color. It is also tinted, so you can see where you are putting it. Make sure to apply with the mitt and move in several directions. For the face, check out Dr. Dennis Gross’ facial tanning pads. They give a touch of color in an easy-to-use, throw-away towelette.
2) Bronzer and contour products add color and sheen.
Add a little wherever the sun would normally hit you. Reminder: you can use contour for bronzer, but not the opposite (contour should never have shimmer). You can also use these products to cover strap marks.
“Spring is the time to dig into the brighter colors in your palette.”
3) Toning Lotion:
Another beauty tip for spring – for when your legs are not looking so great and you want to wear shorts or a skirt? Start with several pumps of Mary Kay’s Body Toning Lotion (hands down the best body lotion I have ever used), add 2-3 squirts of Mary Kay’s CC Cream in the shade “DEEP”. Blend and apply to legs in multiple directions. Once dry, it has very little transfer.
4) Shimmer is in.
Add a little shimmer on the eyelids and lips for an easy glow.
5) Some great ads to your body lotion.
Add a few drops Mary Kay’s Naturally Oil to your body lotion. TRUST ME, it takes your lotion to a whole new level and adds a slight glow to the skin.
Spring is the time to dig into the brighter colors in your palette. Peaches, corals, & warm pinks look great on sun-kissed skin. Bump up your cheek color to balance the look. It’s also a good time for a nude glossy lip. Throw on a little bronzer/contour, a nude balm or gloss, a little shimmer on your eyelid, and some cc cream for a quick spring/summer look.
911-Girl Get That Pedicure Now!
If you don’t, you will wind up wearing open toes and not looking the part. If salons are not your thing, you can do a lot of foot maintenance at home. Slough those callouses and sleep in pedi-socks and a thick moisturizer like Aquafor on your feet. Paint those toes with a bright color or a version of white and you are ready to roll. If painting is hard for you, check out the pedicure strips from Dashing Diva for a quick option.
Until next month, get your glow on!
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About the Author:
Gail is the Beauty & Fashion Editor for www.yourcolorstyle.com.
As a 28 year veteran in the beauty industry, she is passionate about helping women to look their best and to express themselves in their outward appearance. She is also co-host of the Midlife Moxie podcast, available on all major platforms. Find Gail on IG: @gailsscott
Email: gailscott@bellsouth.net Or through www.yourcolorstyle.com
