3 Beauty Tricks to Try Before Hitting the Beach

Putting on a bikini after a long winter doesn't have to be a torturous event. It helps to start with the right suit for your shape.Here's how to look smooth, bronzed, and gleaming all over. And check out Cosmo's fail-proof tips to looking amazing this summer.


1) Beat Body Acne
Don't let eruptions on your back, shoulders, chest, or butt force you to eliminate slinky tops and skimpy bikinis from your warm-weather wardrobe. To ward off new spots while dealing with existing ones, start this daily blemish-busting regimen: First, cleanse the offending areas with a body wash that contains salicylic acid like Murad Acne Body Wash. Let the cleanser sit on your skin for a few minutes before rinsing it off so you can reap all the antiacne benefits. Postshower, spot-treat your zits with the same drying potion that you use on your face. These acne attackers will make your breakouts vanish.


2) Take Your Time with Hair Removal

A smooth set of legs and underarms and a flawless bikini line are essential for warm weather. But be sure to execute your hair removal the day before you slip into your swimwear to give your skin some downtime. Start every shaving session with a hot shower or bath to soften your hair so it's easier to remove. For the silkiest results, exfoliate with a gentle body scrub, then lube up with a moisturizing cream and use a fresh, sharp three- or four-blade razor to whisk away the hair. Cut down on irritation by relathering an area if you are going over it a second time. If you have the patience and the pain threshold, consider waxing your legs, which will keep you bare for up to a few weeks. Work on small sections at a time with precoated strips.

3)
Get Your Glow Going
If your entire body is ghostly pale, warm it up with a gradual self-tanner like Jergens Natural Glow Revitalizing Daily Moisturizer. Your skin should peak in five to seven days; afterward, apply the lotion every other day to maintain your glow. If you want a tanned look right now, your best bet is a tinted body bronzer that sticks around until your next shower. For something with more staying power, try a regular sunless tanner. The trick to streak-free results: spread the product on with uniform swipes in all directions. For knees, elbows, and ankles, dilute the tanner with moisturizer to ensure the dry skin in these areas don't turn too dark. Also, skip spots where the sun don't shine since tan soles or armpits are a dead giveaway. Check out more tips about how to practice safe sun and get a natural looking glow.


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