4 Tips for Hot, Melt-y Makeup Days

Since it is roasting hot in NYC and I feel like I’m frying on the sidewalk, I started thinking more about what to do when it’s so hot.

1. Use Sun Protection. ALWAYS. Unlike a hazy day that makes it easy to forget, the sun beating down on you should help you remember. Sun protection goes way beyond beauty – but if it’s beauty that motivates you, remind yourself once more that 90% of aging comes from environmental/sun damage. I’ll keep writing about this until you are sick of it. My favorite, favorite is still Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock. It’s waterproof, lightweight and really keeps you protected. Lucy's wearing it in the picture above.

2. Fake Your Tan. If you want to tan, do a sunless tanner. If you’ve never used one, I know the fear is turning orange; but these days, brands have considered this and you’ll not turn orange. Just don’t forget to wash your hands after applying to avoid fake tan palms.

3. Waterproof Your Makeup. You don’t have to be swimming to wear waterproof makeup because if it’s too hot out you’ll probably be sweating so you are kind of swimming. Try waterproof mascara, waterproof eyeliner and an oil-free, long wearing foundation. I love Chanel-StyloYeux Waterproof Eyeliner.

4. Drink More water. This is another thing I always go on about. If you find yourself thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Eight 8 oz. glasses a day is recommended, more if you’re in hot weather. And don’t forget that caffeine dehydrates (and makes you forget you haven’t had any water). So don’t count one of those diet cokes or iced coffees as one of those glasses. Cheers.

My Favorite Products Fall 2011

I’m often asked about my favorite products. While some products are better than others depending on what you want to achieve, these are some of my favorites.Eve Pearl Salmon Concealer

Eve Pearl Concealer - MakingupBeauty.com

Eve Pearl Concealer - MakingupBeauty.com

A concealer that hides under eye dark circles and looks natural is rare. The shade undertones in this lightweight formula do just the trick! I use it on almost everyone.

Fun Fact: Eve Pearl is an Emmy-Award winning makeup artist and her products reflect this. Find her stuff at www.evepearl.com.

Kevyn Aucoin - MakingupBeauty.com

Kevyn Aucoin - MakingupBeauty.com

Kevyn Aucoin The Sensual Skin Enhancer

I use this for really dark circles. Its thicker consistency requires a bit of skill to get just what you want—but worth it.

How-to:

  1. Dab a bit onto the back of your hand.

  2. Mix with an eye cream for extra moisture and the consistency/coverage you want.

  3. Use a brush or your fingertip and pat over areas you want to cover.

NARS Foundation

NARS has some of the most natural-looking foundation shades anywhere—not too much pink, not too much yellow…just right. Years ago, I could never find a foundation shade that matched my skin—until I found NARS. If you have trouble finding the right foundation or powder, NARS is my go-to recommendation.

Chanel-StyloYeux Waterproof Eyeliner

If eyeliners leave smudges around your eyes, this is a must-have. For myself, it’s the only liner that doesn’t smudge. If you’re Asian—and I am—you probably share this problem and will want to share this solution too!