7 Ways to Swap Out Your Heavy Makeup for a Fresh Spring Look
By SELF magazine
If you haven't yet, it's about time to swap out your heavier winter makeup for lighter formulas and springtime shades. But choosing your new "go-to" products can be a little confusing. Here are a few tips on giving your winter beauty routine a spring cleaning!
First, assess the situation: The best way to start is to see what you already have! Separate your makeup into groups: moisturizers, foundations, powders, shadows, lipsticks/glosses, eyeliners and mascaras. Toss anything that's broken or old and past it's expiration date (need a hint? Check these guidelines).
Then, sort it out: Next, go through your colors. For spring, you're likely to use lighter, brighter shades. But it's OK to keep darker ones you like for evening and formal occasions.
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Now, update your categories:
Moisturizer: You were probably using a heavier formula in the winter to keep your skin from getting dry. But when it gets warmer, these can feel a bit greasy and uncomfortable - especially if you tend to sweat. Look for one that's lighter and oil-free with a little more SPF since you'll be out in the sun more.
Foundation: Getting coverage without caking on the makeup can be tricky. As the temp rises, try something like Neutrogena 3-in-1 Healthy Skin Enhancer. It's an alternative to foundation that covers well and also targets signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. It's also great if you have sensitive skin and has SPF 20 so you're protected under the sun.
Powder: No one likes piling on the powder. Swap out your winter one for an invisible one like Too Faced Absolutely Invisible Translucent Pressed Powder. As you take on a little color from being outdoors, you won't have to play around with the color of your compact and these are super lightweight so you won't feel cakey or chalky (ick!).
Shadow: It's not so hot that you have to avoid cream shadows, but powder ones will ensure that you don't feel greasy. They also last longer if you heat up! Play around with fun, funky colors with a palette like the new Urban Decay Feminine Palette . The shades are supposed to compliment all skin tones so it should take a lot of the guesswork out.
See Also: SELF's 2011 Healthy Beauty Award Winners
Lipsticks/glosses: Tinted lip colors are the way to go. Rich creamy lipcolors keep your lips soft and moisturized in cold weather, but who wants to pucker up to that under the beaming sun? Try Clinque Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm. These last long, keep your lips super hydrated and feel really light and natural.
Eyeliners: Try swapping out your darker charcoals and blacks for fun, flirty purples, light navy shades and blues. You can create a lighter smokey eye or add a subtle pop of color to any look.
Mascara: Black is a staple in your beauty bag, so opt for one that packs a punch without the need to pile on. Dior Diorshow 360 Mascara volumizes, lengthens and curls with a spinning brush so you won't miss a spot.
Happy spring cleaning!
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