Top beauty tips on how to beat the rising temperature

The humidity and summer sun are something to be reckoned with in the UAE and with the commute to work, the office AC and meetings to attend, looking fresh can be tricky.

Even when night falls things can get sticky, so what’s a girl to do when she’s trying to stay beautiful? Kate Goodwin, founder of the Illumin8 Media Make Up Studio, has worked with celebs such as Paris Hilton and Mischa Barton, and she says just a few simple changes to your normal make-up manoeuvres will allow you to face up to the hotter weather in style.

Work wise

“With the commute to work, you’re going to be hot and you’re going to be uncomfortable but you can still be confident in your look provided you think smart and apply the right make-up,” says Kate.

“Start with a make-up primer that has an SPF; it is the perfect base to apply your foundation. It won’t just hold everything in place when it is sticky and humid but, if you use an oil-free product, it will also minimise shine.

“Instead of a foundation, why not try a tinted moisturiser with an SPF, as it’s lighter than a normal foundation. After all, you don’t want to put heavy creams on your face during the high humidity because it is all going to slide off. Something light is going to look and feel much fresher. Also, in the heat, it always helps if you carry blotting papers. They’re very easy to carry around with you and to use - simply press and go.”

Lazy days

You still want to look your best in your downtime. You may not be spending too much time in the great outdoors but even when popping to the shops there are steps you should take to protect your look.

Kate says: “Always try to wear an SPF on your face, even when you’re in and out of the sun as you are still being affected by the direct sunlight. It is so damaging to the delicate skin on your face, potentially causing premature ageing and pigmentation.

“The heat and humidity is going to make skin much more oily so this is the time we should switch to a lighter moisturiser or try an oil-free lotion instead of a heavy product. Even those who have dry skin will notice a difference at this time of the year.

“To save your hair from the humidity, if you have a natural curl, work with it, or if you have straight hair, try wearing it back or in a simple, sleek look.

Pool party

If you plan on hitting the pool in a bid to stay cool, be prepared. Kate says: “If you want to look like a goddess by the pool, try a little bit of bronzer to keep you glowing. A little slick of lipgloss with your cool, oversized sunglasses will complete the look. Sheer balms and glosses look more natural and fitting than lipstick. Just remember to pick a tinted balm that contains SPF to keep those lovely lips protected and hydrated.

“If you’re trying to look polished, you should pay attention to those nails too. The heat can really dry them out, so it is always a good idea to use products like Solar Oil, which keeps nails hydrated. “If your nails are flaking or peeling, try NailTek, an amazing product.”

Night time is the right time

Looking good when you’re hitting the top nightspots in the region is a must. However, even at night, humidity can pose a challenge. Kate advises: “Using products such as MAC Strobe Cream will illuminate your skin giving you a fresh glow. However, remember not to go over the top with shimmer as you’re going to have a natural glow from the heat anyway. To enhance the natural beauty of your eyes try a waterproof mascara to last all night long.”

Practice makes perfect

Take time to brush up on your make-up skills. Experimenting with your look is the best way to become comfortable with make-up application, Kate says. The turn of a new season is the perfect time to freshen up your bag of tricks. Be ruthless and give your make-up bag an overhaul - just ditch the things you don’t use.”

ILLUMIN8 Make Up Studio provides specialist courses and workshops for aspiring make-up artists and the everyday woman. The studio also offers private, one-on-one sessions for women looking to perfect the art of make-up. Taster courses are also available. Call 050 872 8374 or go to www.illumin8makeupstudio.com