Finally! Our beloved summertime has returned, bringing all of the lovely laid-back beauty rituals with it. Beachy waves are back and so is the oh-so-gorgeous glowing tan. As our visas are processed and we get ready to pack our bags and jet away, don’t forget that summertime also happens to be the harshest on our hair and skin. If you simply follow these 10 beauty commandments, you can kiss your worries goodbye with a perfectly glossy pink lip.
- Thou Shalt Wear SPF
I cannot stress this enough – unless you want to look like a leather bag by 40 then SPF is an absolute MUST! If your skin tone is olive or darker then you can get away with a lower SPF like 20, if you are lighter skinned then do not wear anything less that SPF 35. Contrary to popular belief this does NOT stop you from getting a tan. Feel free to wear your favorite tanning lotion over it, just make sure the base protection is there. Put your sunscreen on at least 15 minutes BEFORE you are actually in the sun, it needs time to be effective. Also, if you are planning on being in the sun all day then a single application simply isn’t enough, REAPPLY! Don’t forget to get it on your hands and neck as these are sensitive and often neglected areas. Also grab the Labello SPF lip balm for a perfectly protected pout.
- Thou Shalt Love Thy Hair
The best thing you could ever do while tanning is put oil in your hair. I recently discovered a wonderful hair oil at Sultan by the brand Parachute (this brand is usually found in all Co-ops). It is a mixture of sesame, olive, almond and coconut oil. I have been using it at home half an hour before shampooing but its moisturizing effects would be amplified during a day in the sun.
- Thou Shalt Exfoliate
Your skin experiences much more trauma in the summer months with drying out and heat exposure so make sure to keep it fresh by using your favorite exfoliator especially on your legs and arms at least once a week. I absolutely love all of the Body Shop exfoliating scrubs. Soap & Glory (available at Boots) also makes a nice scrub.
- Thou Shalt Get Pedicures
Since you will probably be wearing sandals more often than not, make sure you get a pedicure at least once every two weeks to keep your little toes in top shape. Summer is the time when you can go crazy with colors, especially on your feet. Pick refreshing shades like watermelon pink and mint green.
- Thou Shalt Fake Tan
Fake it till you make it! Our bodies always tan faster than our faces. Instead of fighting this natural color darkening process by torturing your face with too much sun exposure, use your favorite gradual tanner or bronzer on your face to avoid sun damage. I love the St Tropez beauty line, which is famous for self-tanners. I have yet to find it in Kuwait but many different brands make similar tanners that give you all the color without the damage. I would recommend visiting Sephora to find a great brand that is worth investing in.
- Thou Shalt Moisturize
Your body needs as much care as your face so take an extra few minutes every day to apply lotion after showering – your skin will thank you later.
- Thou Shalt Drink Water
The best way to hydrate comes from within. We are all aware how important water consumption is, but it is especially important in the summer when dehydration gets the best of us. Chug away!
- Thou Shalt Swim
Swimming is the number one exercise recommended by doctors as it is so beneficial for your joints and yet works all of your muscles in the most effective way. Instead of just being a beach staple, take several breaks to dip in the pool or sea for a total body workout.
- Thou Shalt Pack Light
Traveling overseas? You don’t need 40 dresses and 15 pairs of shoes. Pack plenty of neutral and light pieces that go together and have fun with your accessories. The last thing you need is to go shopping then worry about how you will fit everything back into that suitcase, so save some room!
- Thou Shalt Relax!
Enjoy yourself and never stop appreciating those simple moments in life when you can just take a deep breath and smile.
