Tips to keep your summer makeup from slipping away

If you're like most women, then even when it's 100 degrees outside you probably wear makeup on your African American skin. However, it's important to remember that in the summer you need to change your skin care routine. Recently, the Los Angeles Times spoke to Allie Lapidus, a commercial makeup artist, who offered suggestions on how to switch up your makeup routine in the warmer months.

First, Lapidus said to use oil-free, highly pigmented concealers and moisturizers rather than foundation.

"When it's hot, makeup doesn't stick. It will literally slide off the face," said Lapidus, quoted by the news source. "In the summer, be sure to create a really good base so that everything stays on better."

The expert also recommended that in the summer, you put a little foundation primer on your eyelids before applying eyeshadow. Also, you might want to use a gel liner, instead of the more waxy, melt-prone pencils.

Real Beauty states that when it comes to eye makeup, bronze is the summer version of winter's black-and-silver smoky eye, so you should go for this golden color when getting ready for a night out. Also, to complete this look pick up some brown eyeliner to go with your bronze eyeshadow.
 

Treat your skin to a facial and some new moisturizers this summer

 

Do you know what colors you should be using on your African American skin this summer? If not, don't worry, there are many professionals out there who are here to help. Recently, KIVI, Idaho's ABC news source, spoke to professional makeup artist Meghan Saboori who talked about what's in and what's out this season.

According to the expert, coral is the color of the season, but different eye colors need different looks. For example, blue-eyed people look best in oranges, peaches and corals, while people with brown eyes can wear almost anything. Saboori also said that while wearing SPF is a good way to protect against the sun, you should also look into doing something to repair past damage.

"Aside from expensive medical treatments by a dermatologist, you should get a monthly facial by a licensed professional! Facials improve skin tone, texture, clarity and firmness of your skin. Not only that, it gives you an hour of pure relaxation," said Saboori, quoted by the news source.

WebMD recommends exfoliating during the summer to remove dry, dead skin cells that you may have acquired during the winter. The medical website also recommended looking for shave-minimizing moisturizers, since shaving more often in the summer may irritate your African American skin.

Adopt a natural skin care routine this summer

 

You may need to take extra steps in the summer to keep your African American skin looking flawless, since people tend to show more skin in the warmer months. Become Gorgeous has some suggestions for how to start a natural skincare regimen that will keep you looking fresh all summer.

First, the colder months may have left your skin feeling dry and cracked, so you'll want to exfoliate for the summer. Use a body sponge in the shower that will remove dead skin and any makeup that may have gotten left behind.

"Even in summer time individuals will still be vulnerable to dry skin. This happens even though the body typically produces a lot of oils throughout the summer. The additional sunshine may dry out skin. A natural and organic night gel is nice for maintaining natural oils when removing makeup," according to the news source.

GoodToKnow.com also recommends applying a night cream every evening to keep the skin hydrated. The information provider said that a good night cream should leave your skin feeling soft and supple when you wake, rather than tight and dry. 

Stick to classic wedding looks this summer

 

Summer is a big season for weddings, and if your big day is coming up soon, you probably want your African American skin to look flawless. Recently, the Denver Post spoke to makeup artist Michael Moore who offered suggestions on how to celebrate your wedding day confident that your skin care product is helping you look your best.

First, the expert said that if you're planning on waxing any part of your face, you should schedule any appointments two weeks before the wedding. Next, Moore said that it's best to stick to classic makeup looks rather than trying out a new trend on your wedding day. You don't want to look dated in your photos.

The makeup artist warned against wearing too much makeup, since you want to look natural, but this is a day for a touch of glamour.

"If you want to take the glam factor up a notch, false eyelashes - when properly applied and when you are comfortable wearing them - can add appeal. Have them professionally applied and practice wearing them ahead of time," said Moore, quoted by the news source.

Yahoo! Lifestyle states that one of the most important things that you can do on your wedding day is use a primer to get your skin ready for foundation. Primer will help your foundation look smooth and even, which is especially important for pictures.

 

Stop the pain of that sunburn

 

If you're hitting the beach this summer, be sure to wear sunscreen to protect your African American skin. Of course, even if you use sun-shielding lotion you may still get a sunburn, and if so there are things that you can do to help soothe the discomfort. Recently, Philly Burbs published an article explaining some simple ways to ease the pain of a sunburn.

First, in the summer it is a good idea to keep pure aloe in the fridge so you can use it on a burn, this is a well-known solution that cools the skin to ease pain and can be applied as often as necessary. Next, if you don't have any aloe around, dip a clean towel into cold water and apply it to the burn.

Discovery Health also has some suggestions on relieving sunburn pain.

"Adding a few heaping tablespoons of baking soda to cool bath water makes a sunburn-soothing remedy. Just keep your soaking time down to 15 to 20 minutes. If you soak any longer, you risk drying out your already lizard-like skin," according to the news source.

Finally, drink plenty of water, which is always a good idea after too much sun exposure. 

Halle Berry shares some beauty tips

 

If you're looking for tips on how to spruce up your African American skin care routine for the summer, who better to turn to than the lovely Halle Berry? The actress recently spoke to Stylelist and told the news source her secrets for looking great in warm weather, even when you are crushed for time.

First, the information provider asked Berry what her five minute beauty routine is. She said that the two things she never leaves the house without are face powder and a little color on the lips, which is a quick way to keep your face fresh. Next, the actress shared the biggest makeup lesson she's learned over the years.

"What I’ve learned is that makeup starts with a good base. You have to find a foundation that completely matches your skin tone, so you don’t have a different color face and body; something that’s light, oil-free and doesn’t feel too heavy. Everything else you can add, like an eye and mouth, but you have to get a good base," Berry said, quoted by the news source.

Marie Claire Magazine also reported on the actress' beauty routine, and said that one of her secrets is that she always exfoliates and rubs pure vitamin C on her African American skin before moisturizing. 

Fight off smudged summer makeup

 

Summer is here, which means you may need some help to keep your African American skin from looking sweaty and your makeup from running. Recently, Styleite published an article offering some quick tips on how to fix your makeup on days when the heat is almost too much to handle.

First, the news source said that properly applied foundation should last all day, just keep some blotting tissues with mop up any excess oil. Next, keep a Q-tip with you to take care of any mascara or eyeliner that may get under your eyes. The information provider also recommended keeping a few extra makeup products in your bag during the summer.

"Keep a bronzing compact in your bag, so that you can touch up your eyes or sculpt your cheekbones to create a glamorous look while you’re out and about," according to the news source.

Allure Magazine recommends using a cream foundation instead of a powder in the summer, because a powder can cake when it mixes with sweat and oil. Also, on top of sunscreen, be sure to wear bug repellent in the summer to protect your African American skin from bug bites. 

African American hair care tips and styles for the summer

 

If you've been worrying about how to keep your African American skin looking great all summer, chances are you've also been concerned about how to keep your hair in check during the hot and humid days to come. Recently, The Grio, an NBC news affiliate, spoke to New York City stylist Patrick Wellington about the dos and don'ts of African American hair care in the summer.

First, did you know that sunscreen is not just for your African American skin? According to Wellington, hats and products that contain SPF are also important for the hair, and can protect it from sun damage. Next, he said that you should be washing your hair at least once a week in the summer.

"Summertime always requires a little bit more maintenance. You don’t always have the hats to cover it up, you always want to look good. It takes a little bit more work; more washing. You’re perspiring; you’re probably working out, so definitely wash your hair once a week," said Wellington, quoted by the news source.

Essence Magazine states that the summer is a good time to try a new hairdo such as a side ponytail, a loose blowout or a french braided side-chignon.

 

Lip colors for the new season

 

If you caught the recent MTV Movie Awards, then you may have noticed that there was large variety of lipstick colors and tones that were taking center stage on the red carpet. Recently, Access Hollywood published an article with some tips on how to use your African American skin care products to have lips like a star.

The news source said that red will be the most popular lipstick color this summer. For darker skin tones, Hollywood recommended looking for an orangey-red that casts a glow on the skin. However, if red isn't your style, the information provider had suggestions for how to pull off a nude lip.

"For a perfect pout, line the lips with a cream-based concealer. In choosing a shade best suited for your skin tone, the lipstick should be one or two tones darker than the inside of your lips. Next, use a lip brush to paint the lips, starting from the center. Finally, dab some loose powder over the lips to help the color stay on longer," according to the news source.

Vogue states that some more lip colors that are hot this season are candy pink and tangerine orange, so it may be time to re-stock on lipstick for the summer.

Eat right and wear sunscreen for health skin this summer

 

Just because you have African American skin, doesn't mean you don't need protection from the sun's harmful UV rays, especially in the summer. Recently, the Ledger-Enquirer, a Georgia news source, spoke to dermatologist Tanda Lane about what people should be doing during the warmer months to protect and even boost the health of their skin.

First, Lane said that nothing is more important than wearing sunscreen every day. Some African Americans may not realize that they need SPF, but the National Cancer Institute states that not only can this population get skin cancer, they also tend to be diagnosed in the later stages. Next, the dermatologist offered some suggestions on what to do if you get a bad sunburn.

"It's important to begin treating a sunburn as soon as possible. Take a cool bath, you can also soak a cloth in skim milk and ice and apply to the skin for five minutes, then apply a moisturizer to trap the water in your skin," said Lane, quoted by the news source.

Finally, the doctor recommended consuming antioxidant-rich foods such as pomegranate and blueberries, since these fruits may reduce inflammation and boost the health of the skin. 

Get perfect summertime skin

 

You want your African American skin to look its best this summer, which can be difficult, considering the skin-searing UV rays and sweat-inducing heat. Recently, The New Canaan, a Connecticut news source, spoke to beauty expert Nicky Kinnard who offered suggestions on how to have flawless summer skin.

The expert said you want to look for products with the right ingredients.

"The most important thing is that you get lightweight hydration during the warmer months," said Kinnard, quoted by the news source. "You want to look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid that penetrate deep down into the base of the skin cell layers. You don’t want heavy textures on the skin when it’s hot outside, even when it comes to your moisturizer."

Cosmopolitan Magazine offers some tips on how to keep from sweating excessively in the heat. The news source suggested putting deodorant on at night. That way, it will have time to absorb in your skin and start working. Also, you may want to keep blotting pads with you in the summer to wipe up excess oil from your skin. 

Tips for summer makeup for the office

 

The summer can wreak havoc on your complexion, which is why you should change your African American skin care routine when the hot weather comes. Recently, Forbes magazine spoke to beauty expert Olivia Chantecaille, who offered some tips for professional women who want to look look cool during the warm months.

First, she said that if you want to wear bold summer shades without scaring people at the office, then keep the bright colors on your lips. For example, there are many bright lip gloss shades that can help you feel like summer has arrived without looking overdone.

Next, the expert said that when it comes to summer makeup, less is more.

"Sometimes too much makeup during the summer months can make a woman look older - think too much self tanner or mascara buildup around the eyes," said Chantecaille, quoted by the news source.

Good Housekeeping states that the key to flawless summer makeup is to apply primer before putting on foundation. It provides a smooth base to hold makeup in place, even when you're dealing with heat and humidity. 

Don't let the summer leave you with breakouts

 

The summer can take a real toll on your African American skin. Being outside in the heat can leave you with pimples and burns, so it's important to spend extra time on your skin during the warmer months. Recently, Real Buzz published an article explaining some simple ways to keep your skin clear during the summer.

First, the news source said you should avoid contact with bacteria whenever possible.

"Your pillow comes into contact with makeup, skin oils and saliva, making it a breeding ground for bacteria that can worsen acne. Likewise, unwashed makeup brushes can spread bacteria to your skin. To minimize your skin’s contact to bacteria, make sure you wash makeup brushes every two weeks and change your pillowcase regularly," according to the news source.

Next, the website recommended following a balanced diet filled with fresh, skin-friendly fruits and vegetables.

Everyday Health states that in the summer, you want to keep your hair out of your face whenever possible to avoid the oils that  penetrate your skin and cause acne. So if you're hitting the gym or the beach, be sure to wear your hair up. 

Considering a summertime wax?

It's beach season, which means you need to grab the sunscreen, some waterproof African American skin care products and maybe take care of some unsightly hair that you let go unchecked during the winter. Many ladies go for waxes in the summer to get themselves beach-ready, but you want to protect your African American skin while doing this. The Houston Chronicle spoke to esthetician Lisa Lazzara for advice about waxing.

First, the expert said that if you've been shaving regularly, then you should wait three to four weeks before waxing to get smooth, long-lasting results. Next, once you do start a waxing routine, give up the razor.

"Avoid shaving between appointments. Shaving will negate all the positive benefits of waxing and can irritate hair follicles," said Lazzara, quoted by the news source.

Women's Day also has some tips for making the waxing experience better. The news source said if you're worried about pain, then you might want to take ibuprofen an hour before your appointment. Also, if you experience painful swelling and redness than apply a little cortisone cream to the area.

Which sunscreen should you use?

 

With summer right around the corner, you've probably been hearing a lot about how important it is to protect your African American skin with sunscreen. Of course, there are so many different SPF brands and products on the market, it can be very overwhelming when you have to choose which one works for your skin. Recently, Reporter News, a Texas information provider published an article explaining how to pick the right sunscreen for you.

The news source explained that the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation falls into two categories: ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B.

"Many commercial sunscreens only focus their protection efforts on ultraviolet B rays - the kind that causes sunburns (an easy way to remember: "B" is for "burn"). But they do little to shield against ultraviolet A, which does the real damage - contributing to skin cancer and early skin aging," according to the news source.

The Reporter News stated that products labeled "broad spectrum" protect against both A and B, so you'll want to look for those while you're shopping.



According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, while African Americans have a lower risk of skin cancer than their light-skinned counterparts, they tend to be diagnosed in the late stages of the disease, decreasing their chances of surviving. This is why it's important to protect your African American skin from the sun.

Survey shows young people in the dark about skin cancer

 

As the weather gets warmer, it's important for you to do everything you can to protect your African American skin against the sun's UV rays. Recently a survey conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology found that many young adults are unaware of the dangers of tanning beds or spending time in the sun without sunscreen.

According to the results of the survey, nearly half of the respondents agreed with the statement, "I prefer to enjoy sunshine and not worry about what I should do to protect myself from it." Furthermore, 24 percent of individuals were not aware that tanning beds are not safer than spending time in the sun, and 31 percent did not know that prolonged sun exposure can cause wrinkles.

The researchers said that these findings may offer clues as to why melanoma is the most common form of cancer among young adults between 25 and 29 years old and the second most common form for people between 15 and 29 years old.

The results of this survey suggest that more needs to be done to spread awareness among young people of the dangers of skin cancer. If you're planning on spending a lot of time in the sun this summer, be sure to wear a hat or protective clothing and an African American skin care product containing SPF. 

Expert stresses the importance of exfoliating in summer

 

Summer means that it's time to change your African American skin care routine in preparation for the warmer weather. Recently, Access Hollywood spoke to skin care professional Sonya Dakar, who has worked with many celebrities, and she offered tips on how to get your skin ready for the warmer weather.

First, she recommended changing the cleanser you use. Switch out the heavy moisturizing wash and change it out for an oil-absorbing one. Next, Dakar said you want to be sure to exfoliate.

"No matter how much lotion you use, you’re never going to have glowing skin if you don’t exfoliate. Especially when you are transitioning from spring to summer- you want to reveal a fresh young complexion! Grab a gentle facial exfoliator and hit the shower. The steam will gently soften your skin and allow the scrub to easily slough off dead dull skin," said Dakar, quoted by the news source.

Daily Glow reminds its readers that you shave more in the summer, so you need to replace your razor often and shave only after you’ve been in the shower for a few minutes, which is when the hairs are softer.

Help your skin care product help you

 

Your African American skin care product can work to keep your complexion looking gorgeous, but it can't do it alone. You also need to be working on a regular basis to ensure that you are doing all you can to promote healthy skin. Recently, The Georgetown Dish, a Washington, DC news source, published its writers' favorite skin care tips to help you do your part.

The first piece of advice the information provider gave was to listen to your skin.

"If your skin breaks out when you use a product, that product is not for you. If your skin feels uncomfortable, irritated, blotchy, raw when you use a product, that product is not for you. Think of your skin as a baby – it can’t express itself in words, so it finds other ways of telling you how it feels. Listen to it," stated the news source.

Next, the Dish said that you shouldn't be waiting for problem spots or wrinkles to appear before you start doing things to prevent them, such as using SPF regularly and applying high-quality products.

The Mayo Clinic reminds people that one of the best ways they can prevent skin damage is to not smoke, since smoking narrows the tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin, decreasing blood flow and contributing to wrinkles. 

Makeup tips for a job interview

 

In this economy, many people are looking for a job. While for men, going to a job interview means a new suit and a haircut, women have to make sure that their African American skin care product looks professional as well as their ensemble. Recently, Job Mouse offered some makeup tips for ladies who are on the hunt for a new career.

First, the news source said while you should wear makeup, you don't want to look overdone. You can avoid looking as though you have too much makeup on by choosing the right foundation.

"Use a flawless foundation or tinted moisturizer that gives your skin a fresh ‘no-makeup’ look with a soft hint of color that evens out the skin rather than hiding it," according to the news source.

Next, the information provider said that it's acceptable to wear a dark lipstick if that gives you confidence, but make sure it's matte and not glossy, as lip gloss is distracting and inappropriate for a job interview.

Real Beauty reminds women who are heading out to find a job that they want to avoid any shimmery or glittery eyeshadow. Also, don't go too crazy on the eyeliner or try to do a smokey eye, while that looks good at a party or in a bar, there's no place for that look in an interview.

 

Skin care expert gives waxing tips for guys

 

Summer is almost here, and while you're getting your African American skin ready for the heat by getting products that contain SPF and searching for new brightly colored cosmetics you may also be considering some hair removal options. While you're waxing and plucking in preparation for the beach, you may want to ask your boyfriend if he's ever considered trimming down for the summer season.

Recently, California spa worker and skin care expert Deborah Spalla offered some suggestions for what areas of the body men should consider to making hair-free. According to the expert, many men want to get rid of unwanted hair but just don't talk about it, so you may need to make the first move in the conversation.

First, she suggested taking care of any unwanted hair on the back, since this can be a turn-off on the beach. Next, men may want to look into waxing their Adam's apple, since it is easier than shaving and lasts longer.

"The most common areas for waxing are unibrows, ears and nose hairs," said Spalla. "Ouch?! Here's the painful truth about that. According to my clientele, the unibrow is not so bad, the nose really doesn't hurt at all and the ears hurt. Surprised me, too."

Don't get caught up in rising skin cancer rates

 

Melanoma rates are on the rise, and just because you have African American skin doesn't mean you're safe from the sun's harmful UV rays. MSNBC reports that a new study in Mayo Clinic Proceedings finds that rates of skin cancer have soared in the U.S., and young women ages 18 to 39 are particularly at risk of developing this disease. In response to the news, all women should protect themselves from the sun this summer.

Female First offers some suggestions for staying sun safe, and some of them you may not have thought of before. For example, some women may be at a higher risk of skin cancer for a number of surprising factors.

"If you are taking prescription medication, ensure that you check the labels to see if they affect your body's reaction to the sun and heat, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. If you are pregnant, ask your doctor about the potentially harmful effects of heat, sun and fatigue," according to the news source.

Also, simply applying SPF in the morning before you leave the house is not enough. You should reapply every four hours or so, especially if you are on the beach and going into the water. Remember, you need at least two tablespoons of sunscreen on each body part. 

Eliminate dry skin before summer

 

Summer is almost in full swing, and yet you may still have dry, cracked African American skin caused by winter winds. When you're getting ready to break out the bathing suit, the last thing you want is to have flaky, scaly skin on the beach. Recently Hello magazine recently published an article offering some tips on how to get rid of dry skin before summer.

First, the news source stated it's good to have a fine-grained body scrub. You can even make your own by mixing sugar, lemon and honey. Next, they offered tips for how to improve your skin while you sleep.

"Top tip before bedtime: don’t forget to smother hands and feet in your favourite body cream and pop on some cotton socks and gloves for instant hydrated skin by morning," according to the information provider.

Women's Health magazine suggested using a baby's washcloth on the skin after exfoliating, since these are usually softer and more gentle than other ones. The news source also recommended applying a soothing aloe mask on your face twice a week. This may help rehydrate the skin and reduce inflammation.

Get ready for summer with skin cancer protection

 

Summer is almost here, which means it's time to protect your African American skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. There are many ways to do this, such as buying an African American skin care product that contains SPF. Recently, Fox News published an article explaining some of the basics of skin cancer prevention.

The news source stated that seeking shade during midday hours, when the sun is at its peak, is an important part of keeping your skin safe. Also, you should learn how to spot a mole that needs attention from a dermatologist.

"Although brown spots and moles are typically harmless, atypical moles can be an early sign of melanoma. Cancerous moles may be asymmetrical, have uneven borders, vary in color, have a diameter larger than one-fourth of an inch and evolve over time," according to the news source.

The information provider added that caucasians are ten times more likely to develop skin cancer than African Americans. However, the National Cancer Institute states that African Americans are often diagnosed when the cancer has reached an advanced stage, when there is less chance of successful treatment. This is why it's important to protect your skin and visit a doctor if you notice a suspicious spot. 

Do you have your summer sunglasses?

 

Protecting your African American skin in the summer is important, considering that increased exposure to the sun can contribute to skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, sunglasses are a good way to protect your eyes and the skin around them from UV rays.

Recently, Bold Sky published an article with tips on picking the right sunglasses for this season, and what makeup you can wear with your frames .

"If you are wearing spectacles or sunglasses, your under eye dark circles will be clearly visible. So, do not forget to apply a concealer and hide the dark spots under your eyes," according to the news source.

The information provider also recommended keeping your complexion in mind when choosing sunglasses. They said that lighter shades look great on dark skin, such as yellows or light blues. Of course, black frames are classic and can go with any type of complexion.

Also, you may want to keep your foundation with you when you are out wearing sunglasses. That way, you can cover up any marks on your face that the glasses leave behind when you take them off.