When the temperatures rise, so does the chance that wearing a full face of makeup could end in an epic melting disaster. Fortunately, this season’s biggest beauty trends are all about embracing healthy, hydrated skin and just focusing on an element or two to create an effortless look. Whether it’s a glowing complexion, a bold lip, or graphic eyeliner, minimalist beauty is proving that less can actually be more.
Healthy, hydrated skin is the foundation of any beauty routine, but it comes in clutch when you’re wearing minimal makeup for summer. If your complexion looks fresh and glowy, you don’t need layers of makeup to look put together. Start with a gentle cleanser, then a toner, follow that with a hydrating moisturizer, and finish with sunscreen. To enhance your glow, top off your skincare routine with an illuminating bronzer. The result will be skin that slays so hard, it doesn’t need foundation.
According to pro makeup artist Jesse Ramirez, summer is the perfect time to embrace luminous skin over heavy, matte finishes. “We’re currently in an era of matte, soft glam, where many looks share a similar tone and finish. With summer in full swing, embrace the season’s energy by creating something more luminous – playing with glowing, iridescent textures & gloss that bring a fresh perspective to beauty.”
To create that lit-from-within look this summer, keep complexion products light and let your natural skin show through. Apply highlighter to the high points of the face to catch the light, and don’t be afraid to extend the glow beyond your face. The body needs love too! One of Jesse’s favorite backstage tricks is creating a custom body shimmer by mixing a warm-toned highlighter into body oil, giving the skin a radiant finish from head to toe.
Once your skin is glowing, let one feature become the focal point. A vibrant lip is one of the easiest ways to elevate your look while keeping the rest of your makeup simple. Bright coral, cherry red, fuchsia, or a glossy berry shade can instantly make you look camera-ready without the weight of a full face of makeup – ideal for sticky summer days.
If you prefer letting your eyes do the talking, graphic liner looks are a fun trend to try this season. A colorful liner is an easy way to add personality to an otherwise low-key beauty look. Play with shades like electric blue, chrome, or vibrant pink to add a fun pop of color. Ramirez creates exaggerated graphic liner that visually connects the brow and eye shape, “the striking contrast adds both structure and dimension to the overall look,” he says.
This summer, beauty is less about piling on products and more about making intentional choices. Prioritize healthy skin and let one bold feature shine. With a radiant complexion and one statement feature, you’ll stay cool, comfy, and looking like that girl.
XOXO,
Your Beauty Bestie
