SUMMER BEAUTY

Embrace low-key living, and extend the same attitude to your beauty routine.

BRONZE & GLOW

The best bronzers are predominantly matte to provide a face-flattering dimension, but also impart an almost imperceptible lit-from-within glow. But if ever there is an appropriate time for accentuating the high points of the face with an extra touch of gilt shimmer, now is surely it. Take a light touch with a very fluffy blush or powder brush so you’re not left with any obvious stripes.

Below, from left: By Terry Twinkle Glow CC Highlighter; Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Matte & Glow Bronzing Trio; Clarins Bronzing Compact.

SHINE OF THE TIMES

Precise matte colour can feel high-maintenance at this time of year. Instead, switch to one of the new lip options that offer care, hydration and shine in one go without feeling sticky or gathering in fine lines. Key ingredients are becoming just as much a focus in cosmetics as they are in skincare currently, so expect brands to be shouting out specific, recognisable additions to their cosmetics that offer long-term benefits such as hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and plant oils for nourishment.

Clockwise from top left: Shiseido Shimmer GelGloss in Sango Peach; MAC Powerglass Plumping Lip Gloss in Seriously Stoked; Revlon Super Lustrous Glass Shine Lipstick; Clarins Intense Lip Comfort Oil in 06.

SMOOTH OPERATOR

While skincare for the face has hogged the limelight for far too long, it’s like someone just remembered the rest of our body deserves as effective and considered care, with product innovation moving far beyond your basic body wash or maxi-pump of lotion. Worth considering are body treatments utilising acids like glycolic and salicylic to remove dead skin and un-clog pores, spots and blackheads, resulting in clearer skin free of bumps and flakes. We like Dr Dennis Gross’ new Alpha Beta Exfoliating Body Treatment, which comes as pre-soaked towelettes that quickly nix dry skin, add moisture and make the perfect prep prior to applying fake tan.

LET’S GET PHYSICAL

Deciphering the difference between SPF types will help you stick to one that works for you.

About Face’s Leanne O’Malley explains: “Physical sunscreen works by sitting on the surface of your skin and protecting it by reflecting UV rays away via mineral filters of zinc oxide and titanium oxide, and works as soon as they are applied. Chemical sunscreens absorb into your skin, absorb the UV rays, convert them to heat, and release them from the body. You need to put chemical sunscreen on at least 20 minutes before heading outside.”

Below, from left: Skinsmiths Daily Defence Sheer SPF30; Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF30; Ultra Violette Lean Screen SPF50.

BODY INDULGENCE

Purely practical bathroom mainstays have their time and place, but it’s not right now. Unwind by enveloping your body with these luxurious products that are a delight for the senses and deliver on the promise of feeling a million bucks.

Clockwise from left: Acqua Di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Fico Di Amalfi Shower Mousse; Leonor Greyl Huile De Magnolia Face and Body BeautyEnhancing Oil, from inesstore.com; Benamôr Nata Milky Body Cream.

FRUIT-BEARING FRAGRANCE

Juicy and luscious fruit elements remain front and centre when it comes to perfume currently, but many of the new arrivals are careful to pair the freshly picked notes with additional intriguing elements.

There can be no mistaking the intentions of Dolce & Gabbana’s Fruit Collection. The trio of scents – zesty Lemon, sweet Orange and tangy Pineapple – are an unmistakable olfactory mood booster. Blood orange, bergamot and pink pepper make a sprightly opener for Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Orange Soleia. The fuzzy peach of Tom Ford’s Bitter Peach is tempered with boozy rum and cognac notes, so while it’s office-appropriate, it’s just as good for wearing to sunset cocktails on the balcony.

“TAKE A LIGHT TOUCH WITH A POWDER BRUSH.”