Remember all those times you rolled your eyes at your mum when she tried to give you the ‘less-is-more’ speech as you flounced out the door sporting a caked-on base, a fiery pout, smoky eyes and a big bouffant? Well, turns out she was right – especially during the sweltering months when excess product can cause all sorts of problems (think melting foundation, oil-slick skin, pimples caused by blocked pores – need I say more?).
Arm yourself with our pick of the best multi-use make-up buys and use them sparingly(!) to create your hottest summer look yet.
1. L’Oreal Paris Eyeshadow Minerals
This neutral collection of shadows is perfect for achieving a fresh-faced look. Use it (as I’m sure you’ve guessed) over your eyes, then sweep some across your cheekbones and décolletage for instant luminescence that won’t clog your pores.
2. Aveda Inner Light Dual Foundation
Go straight from the beach to the bar with this double-duty beauty. Apply it wet during the day for sheer, natural-looking coverage, then pop it in your purse and use it dry at night for a fuller, matte finish.
3. La Prairie Silver Rain Shimmer Mist
Nobody wants an overpowering fragrance when the air itself is stifling enough, so the heavy-hand ban applies to your summertime scent too. This little luxury is not only a more lightweight version of the original, but will also leave a delicate shimmer on your skin.
4. Dermalogica Clean Start Brighten Up SPF15
When it’s too hot for foundation but you still want something to enhance your complexion you can’t go past this great buy. Not only will it protect your skin from harmful UV rays, but its light reflecting formula will also leave you radiating a gorgeous glow.
5. St. Tropez Every Day Body
Keep body beautiful when the temperature rises with this 2-in-1 moisturiser and gradual tanner. It’ll prevent your skin from drying out in the heat while imparting a glorious golden glow. What more could a girl want?
6. Benetint
You’ll absolutely die if you leave this pocket-rocket of a product at home. Rub a small amount into the apples of your cheeks and over your pout for a sweet daytime flush, or apply more liberally to your lips for a berry-hot nighttime smile.
Dermalogica’s Prisma is lovely too