Rachel Bush

Beach season is around the corner.  Time for pool parties, bikinis, BBQs, boys, and beach trips.  Summertime is all about losing the foundation and showing what beautiful skin you have.  Did you just scream internally at the thought of not wearing foundation?  Don’t worry, here is a simple skin care routine get glowing, gorgeous skin that’s ready for the beach. 

1.  Cleanse your skin well every night.  Do not sleep in makeup…even if the brand says you can.  Gel based cleansers will suds up and are better for oily and acneic skin types, whereas creamy cleansers won’t foam and are better for dry skin types.  If you have sensitive skin, find a cleanser that is fragrance free and dermatologist tested.  Wet your face, pour a small amount of the cleanser into your hands and cleanse your face in circular motions.  Not only does this get all the dirt and oil out of your pores, you’re stimulating blood flow to your skin.  Rinse well and pat dry.

2.  Exfoliate.  Some say everyday, every other day, once a week…it really depends on the type of exfoliant you’re using.  Some cleansers have exfoliating beads in them that are gentle enough to use everyday.  Whatever exfoliant you choose, follow the directions on usage or else you risk over drying or irritating your skin.  Exfoliation is one of the most important steps because it removes all dry, dead, dull skin cells from your skin and allows new skin cells to come to the surface.  It also stimulates cell turnover and helps decrease pigmentation.  What could be more sexy than soft, smooth, healthy skin?

3. Toner, not astringent.  If it were up to me, I’d take astringents off the market.  They are way too harsh for your skin.  Toners help by reducing oil, getting excess bacteria off your face (great for acneic skin), and getting your skin ready to accept moisturizer.  If you think you don’t need a toner, go to a beauty store that lets you sample product, cleanse the back of one hand and leave alone and then cleanse and tone the other hand.  You’ll feel the difference.

4.  Moisturize.  Even if you have oily skin.  If you have oily skin and don’t moisturize, your skin will overcompensate for it and produce more oil leading to clogged pores and acne.  Use a moisturizer that’s specifically designed for the face.  Moisturizer for the body is too heavy and will clog pores.

5.  If it’s morning, apply sunscreen.  Or use a moisturizer that has UV protection in it. Protecting your skin from the sun is the most important part of the skin care process.  UV rays age us faster than anything, so make sure you protect yourself.  If it’s evening, skip the sunscreen.  Sunscreen isn’t meant to be slept in, it’s too heavy.  Allow your sunscreen to soak into your skin for a few minutes before applying makeup.   

I also recommend seeing an esthetician once a month.  Your pores will be deep cleaned and you will get a skin care program tailored to your specific needs.  He/She will also help you reverse bigger issues such as acne, pigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles. 

Still not convinced you can make it without foundation?  I recommend using a tinted moisturizer or mineral powder then.  Jane Iredale is the best mineral powder to use.  It’s light, blends perfectly with most skin types, wears all day, and looks beautiful and natural in pictures.  It also has built in UV protection which is a +++. 

Curious about a pretty, soft summer look that’s perfect for the beach?  The key is less is more.

I used a tinted moisturizer over my entire face, then used a bronzey color on my lid and a light golden color to highlight and blended the two together.  I used a black eyeliner on my waterline and followed with tons of mascara.  I then used a blush/bronzer duo on my cheeks and clear gloss on my lips.  Super easy right?  Til next time XXO