The Five Biggest Beauty Blunders of Summer

Summer is here, whether we are ready for it or not. Now is the time that we need to perfect our look for hot summer days and steamy summer nights. This is not quite as easy as it sounds. I have made many summer beauty mistakes, fortunately for you, I have also learned ways to avoid them.

Problem #1
The Oompa-Loompa tan. We have all heard about the dangerous and aging effects of the sun, but what is summer without a gorgeous golden glow? Most of us have resorted to the use of self tanners at one time or another. Over-application, darkened elbows, ankles, knees, and hairlines are all drawbacks to using these products.

Solution
Always exfoliate before applying self tanners and use rubber gloves to apply the product. If your knees, elbows, and ankles end up darker, or if there are streaks on your skin, rubbing a cut lemon on these areas will help to lighten them. Instead of self tanners, a product that gradually darkens your skin like Jergens Natural Glow ($8.49 at www.drugstore.com) is an excellent option for a more natural looking artificial tan.

Problem #2
Too Much Makeup. Summer is not the time to apply layer upon layer of beauty products to your skin. For most of us, our skin is at its best during the summer months. While your makeup may be perfectly applied, too much just ends up looking fake. Add in the sweat factor, and you will end up looking like a drenched clown by midday.

Solution
Using a tinted moisturizer with sunscreen like Boscia Sheer Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 ($35 at www.ulta.com) can kill two birds with one stone. With well groomed brows, a hint of bronzer, waterproof mascara, and light gloss with sunscreen like Neutrogena Moisture Shine Lip Soother ($6.99 at www.ulta.com) you should be beach ready in no time.

Problem #3
Overdone Hair. Summer is not the time to expect your hair to hold a structured style. Too much processing, styling, and product will just leave your hair looking flat, dry, and damaged.

Solution
For short hair, a tousled, natural look can be achieved by using a texturizing balm such as Garnier Fructis Style Was ($10 at www.drugstore.com) then finger-styling. For longer hair, a conditioning spritz and air drying will give you that look that is so coveted by surfer girls.

Problem #4
Winter Feet. Dry, cracked feet and chipped toenail polish are noticed and can ruin your look. All of those fashionable sandals are lost on unworthy feet.

Solution
Regular pedicures and daily moisturizing with a product like 1 Step Exfoliating Foot Moisturizer from www.kerasal.com can keep your feet looking a little healthy. If you have been a little lax in your foot care regimen, treat yourself to Peditote, ($56 at www.bellesorelleinc.com). This tote contains everything that you will need to get your feet looking beautiful and in shape for those summer shoe styles.

Problem #5
Looking Like a Disco Ball. The colors of summer are tempting, as are all of the glitter infused lotions, potions, polishes, accessories, and beauty products. A little shine is nice, but using too much sparkle does not do anyone any favors.

Solution
Use only one sparkle infused product at a time. A hint of shine on your lips like Philosophy Birthday Cake Lip Shine ($10 at www.ulta.com) looks fresh. The same thing goes for using a metallic bag to accent a neutral outfit.

For all of your summer beauty questions, remember that less is more. Carefree and natural is a lot easier to maintain during the hottest months of the year than high maintenance looks.