When it comes to beauty lessons, we sometimes have to learn the hard way and make the mistake before realizing we did something wrong. There are many common makeup mistakes, but the summer presents a whole new set of beauty mishaps to navigate. Like discovering your mascara is running down your face in the pool or realizing that you really do need to apply sunscreen on your lips, after they become swollen and blistered. Trust us, we’ve been there. To help you avoid any awkward (or painful) moments this season, we’re sharing some hard-earned wisdom on how to avoid the most common beauty mistakes. You’re welcome.
10 Summer Beauty Mistakes You Need to Avoid
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10 Summer Beauty Mistakes You Need to Avoid #1
How many of these summer beauty mistakes are you guilty of?
Image: Imaxtree
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Mistake #1: Not updating your mascara to a waterproof formula
Most of us remember to switch to waterproof mascara when we’re going to the beach or pool. But if you’re not planning on busting out your bikini, do you still use a waterproof formula? The hot, humid weather can just as easily make your regular mascara migrate down your face. Play it safe and wear a waterproof formula, like CoverGirl's LashBlast Volume Waterproof Mascara ($7.49), even to the office. That way you’ll never have to worry about panda eyes this summer.
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Mistake #2: Not thoroughly exfoliating before applying self-tanner
There are times when you can get away with slacking on your beauty routine but exfoliating before you apply self-tanner isn’t one of them. The key to an even, streak-free tan is all in the prep work. Any patches of dry skin will give away your faux tan so devote a good chunk of your self-tanning time to exfoliating. Use an exfoliator, such as The Body Shop’s Coconut Body Scrub ($24), with a loofah to get your skin ready.
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Mistake #3: Forgetting primer
You may not need a face primer during the cooler months, but the summer weather can make even the best foundation slide off skin. Ensure your coverage will last all day by prepping your skin with a primer, such as Smashbox's The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Oil-Free Primer ($39), before the rest of your makeup. And don’t forget about your eyes. The warm weather can make shadow migrate. Choose a primer specifically for your sensitive peepers, like Estée Lauder’s Double Wear Stay-in-Place EyeShadow Base ($19.55).
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Mistake #4: Not bothering to update your foundation color
Don't wait until you finish a bottle to switch up your foundation. Even if you avoid the sun, your skin probably isn’t the same shade in summer as it is in the winter. When the warm weather hits, do a foundation test to ensure you’re wearing the correct shade. If you want something that adapts to your changing skin shade, try a foundation palette, like Cinema Secrets’ Ultimate Foundation 5-in-1 Pro Palette ($36). You get a custom color every time.
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Mistake #5: Assuming that you do not need waterproof makeup
Some makeup formulas are better for summer than others. If you’re shopping for new products, be sure to look for waterproof makeup or those labeled sweat-proof, water-resistant and transfer-proof. Cat eye lovers will like Sephora Collection’s Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner ($13).
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Mistake #6: Skipping moisturizer
Just because your skin isn’t as flaky now as it was when there was snow on the ground doesn’t give you a free pass to skip moisturizer. You still need to apply moisturizer every day, even if you have oily or combination skin. If you hate heavy moisturizers in the summer, look for a lightweight gel formula, like Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel ($32.50).
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Mistake #7: Not applying enough sunscreen
Slapping on sunscreen once doesn’t cover you for the entire day. You need to apply it regularly — as in every couple hours if you’re outside or immediately after swimming. Don’t forget often overlooked areas, like the back of your neck, feet, ears and lips. Simplify the process with an easy-to-apply spray formula, such as Sun Bum’s SPF 30 Original Sunscreen Spray ($15.99).
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Mistake #8: Not protecting your hair in the pool
The pool is a fun place, but it can do a number on your hair. If you’re a blonde, it can give your hair a greenish cast. Plus, it can change other hair colors. Before swimming, protect your hair by wetting it and applying conditioner. After your dip, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo, such as UltraSwim’s Chlorine Removal Shampoo ($5.15).
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Mistake #9: Not protecting your scalp from the sun
When you apply sunscreen to your entire body, does that include your scalp? News flash: Your scalp can burn like the rest of your face so make sure you apply sunscreen to your part line and any other exposed areas. Try a spray, such as Shiseido’s Ultimate Sun Protection Spray SPF 50+ ($40).
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Mistake #10: Not protecting your hair from the sun
Yup, your hair needs protection from sun damage, too. The sun can wreak havoc on pretty dye jobs as well as natural hair colors. Not to mention, it can dry out hair and cause frizz. Look for leave-in products with UVA/UVB protection, like Alterna’s Bamboo Beach Summer Sunshine Spray ($31). Also, make hats a regular part of your summer look to help protect your locks.
