Nothing looks more beautiful than the glow of sun touched skin although this may best be achieved by use of a self tanner to avoid sun damage. Gently bronzed skin can be further enhanced by selecting the right makeup. Some people who have a suntanned face choose to forgo makeup entirely. This is usually not the best choice since bronzed skin can look monotone and flat without a bit of subtle enhancement. A little skillfully applied makeup can beautifully enhance the glow of bronzed skin. Here's how to choose the best makeup for a tan:
Start with the Basics
If you've chosen to get a sun bronzed face through sun exposure, you'll need to apply a good moisturizer as well as a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB light with an SPF of at least fifteen. You're probably already aware of the dangers of sun exposure and will want to limit further damage to the skin which can promote skin cancers and premature aging. Before getting out that lawn chair again, explore the world of facial self tanners which can give you a nice bronze color without skin damage.
Foundation
When choosing makeup for a tan, stay away from heavy foundations. Use a light mineral based, brush-on foundation in a shade that matches your tan. A light, mineral based foundation will help to diffuse the light and mask small imperfections without being heavy or cakey. When you have a tan, you want to keep your makeup as natural as possible.
Accent Your Tan With a Little Bronzer
Because tanned skin can look flat in the absence of makeup, brush on a little bronzer in the hollows of your cheeks to give a bit of depth and contour. This can really make your tan “pop” and play up your beautiful, bronzed skin.
Go Light on the Blush
You may choose not to wear blush when you have a tan. If you do choose to add a little cheek color, pick a color in the coral or orange family and apply it lightly. Coral shades look quite flattering on bronzed, sun kissed skin.
Eye Makeup
The best eye makeup for tanned skin is subtle and understated. Choose lighter shades of neutral eye shadow such as khaki and go light on the application for day wear. If you normally use dark brown or black mascara and eyeliner, consider going a shade lighter for the summer to keep your look fresh and understated. Instead of applying several layers of mascara which can look clumpy and garish in the summer sun, curl your lashes with an eyelash curler and apply a single coat of mascara. Make sure it's waterproof so you won't end up with raccoon eyes when you sweat.
Lip Color
For day wear, the best lip makeup for a tan is light gloss. When you have a tan, heavy lipstick worn during the day can be overpowering. For evening, the coral and orange shades compliment a tan beautifully. Consider choosing a lipstick that has sun protection if you'll be outside for any extended period of time.
Now that you know the best makeup for a tan, you an relax and enjoy the warm weather knowing you look your best.
