Suddenly Summer: A Simplified Skincare, Beauty and Style Routine

The official start of summer has arrived and I find my “getting ready” processes adapting, once again, to warmer temperatures and abundant sun.

For today’s story, I am excited to share some new skincare, beauty and style discoveries (as well as some trusted classics) from Nordstrom that have updated my routine for the hottest season of the year.

Summer Beauty Routine

Kindly scroll on for more details, swatches and images of everything in action as well as the Bottom Line…

//CLEANSERS //

Clé de Peau Beauté just launched a quartet of new cleansers and with the enhanced level of sweat and fatigue that rising temperatures bring, they could not have arrived at a better time.The *Micellar Cleansing Water is gentle enough for the most sensitive skin, adeptly attracting dirt and makeup without stripping the skin. Lush and comforting, the *Softening Cleansing Foam has a bouncy texture that creates a rich and velvety foam on the skin for a spa like experience. True to its name, once the formula is removed, skin is clean left feeling exceptionally smooth, soft and hydrated.

To help with all of the long wearing and waterproof make up that we wear, the *Eye and Lip Makeup Remover is divine. Rife with Camellia and Argan oils (which nourish and fortify the skin), this bi-phase elixir effortlessly removes even the most stalwart formulas without tugging or pulling. I’m using it nonstop as of late. Finally, the for the deepest clean possible, The *Skin-Refining Clay Scrub gently exfoliates while rebalancing natural oil levels and minimizing pores, leaving skin like porcelain. I keep this gem in my shower and happily indulge twice a week.

//SKINCARE //

Upon a thorough cleanse, I generally pare my facial skincare down to a few key products; it simplifies my process and allows my skin to reset and thrive in a more relaxed protocol.

I use the Agent Nateur holi (water) daily, both morning and night to add a dose of moisture and glow to my skin and always bring this buoyant, hyaluronic acid-rich liquid down my neck to my chest for additional benefits. I love all the products from the Agent Nateur line but if I were to suggest one to start with, it would be this toner (and the divine N.5 deodorant)…there is truly nothing like it. For serum, the *La Prairie Pure Gold Radiance Concentrate Serum is the literal gold standard. A veritable splurge, this serum delivers noticeable results upon the very first application. Rich yet incredibly lightweight. A few drops, both morning and night impart the most ethereal glow to my skin. Leaving it silky and revitalized. Try it and you’ll see exactly what I mean.

For moisturizer, I still adore the Augustinus Bader the Rich Cream. Which offers both anti-aging benefits and sublime hydration without feeling heavy. Fragrance-free and apropos for sensitive skin. Nothing makes my skin look more polished and I am never without this. I even keep a smaller travel bottle in my handbag. In terms of sunscreen, I find myself reaching for the *Supergoop! Mineral Sheer Screen. Which features 100% mineral SPF 30 protection and a lightweight texture that plays well with all skin types.

//HAIR + BODY //

Outside of traditional shampoo and conditioner, the four products that I use most are in this breakdown. The brilliant *Hair Rituel by Sisley La Creme 230 has transformed my routine; this genius formula smooths, detangles, protects from heat (while its goodness is activated by heat) and adds shine, making it the leave-in of my dreams. Just a single pump is enough for my long and thick hair. And it’s even pure enough to use on Joey’s post-shower tangled locks. (I use less than a half a pump for her!) Next, I use my T3 Volumizing Hot Rollers multiple times a week and couldn’t be happier with their performance. The velvet flocked rollers gently add curl and volume without getting tangled in the hair. And the oversized clips hold hair securely each and every time.

If you’ve been looking for a hot roller set, I wholly recommend this one…it’s exceptional. When I want the lilting sillage of one of my favorite fragrances, I reach for the *Parfums de Marly Delina Hair Perfume. This creamy rose scent has notes of fruit and musk for locks that radiate with allure without being overpowering. It’s such a smart way to wear fragrance in the summer! I also love this hot pink hair clip, which reminds me days gone by while masterfully holding my hair in place.

For body, the new *Sisley-Paris Le Sculpteur Intensive Contouring Care.

Brimming with white ginger, caffeine and cedrol and pink berry oil, this energizing emulsion firms on contact while imparting a moisturized glow. I focus application on my arms and upper thighs and am extremely pleased with how taut (in the very best possible way) and slender it makes everything feel. From cutoffs and tanks to bikinis and mini dresses, this will be a summer staple, indeed!

// A DEVICE for ALL SEASONS //

I recently ventured into the world of BeautyBio, who’s star product is a handheld micro-needling device that integrates red light for increased collagen production and product absorption. The GloPRO, which I use on my face to combat fine lines and wrinkles, doesn’t hurt in the slightest and the immediate glow it gives my skin continues to invite me to use it time and again. I also love the LIP MicroTip Attachment. which is wonderful for building plumper lips (the key to this volume is the increase in collagen production that the tiny needles initiate) and am experimenting with the latest attachment, the Rejuvenating Scalp Set, which, in studies, has proven to improve hair density and thickness, making it especially invaluable for those dealing with hair thinning and/or loss.

I am thoroughly impressed with the results on my skin and lips thus far. So I will continue to test the scalp attachment and weigh back in soon with my full experience!

// BASE + FACE //

When temperatures rise, I reach for a lighter base with a skin finish. Enter: *Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Oil Free. This legendary formula offers buildable coverage that blends into oblivion, perfecting while still letting the beauty of one’s natural skin shine through. My best summer match is 4N1 Wheat, which I would describe as a golden olive tone. To conceal, I’ve been playing with the new NARS Radiant Corrector in Medium. Although this peachy apricot cream tone can look daunting in the tube, it’s designed to counteract darkness and discoloration rather than to mask it. Just a few dots, blended out and then covered with a touch of the tinted moisturizer and my under eyes look brighter.

To warm up the complexion, I am constantly reaching for the *Sisley-Paris Phyto-Touch Sun Glow Bronzing Gel-Powder, which melts into the skin, effortlessly sculpting with every pass. In addition to the silky texture, the shade of this bronzer is exquisite…a true brown tan that complements a spectrum of skin tones. I follow with a touch of the *Laura Mercier Color Infusion Powder Blush in Chai, which is the perfect blend of nude, rose and peach and focus application on the apples of my cheeks.

To highlight, I recently picked up the Givenchy Teint Couture Shimmer Powder Highlighter in Gold and am over the moon for its finely milled texture and reflective sheen.

I also always have the Tom Ford Soleil Sheer Highlighting Duo (how many times have I written about this duo??!) within arms reach at all times as it doubles as a quick, on-the-go eyeshadow. Finally, to finish the complexion, I ardently recommend the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Glow Setting Powder. This sheer powder looks like nothing when applied, yet somehow looks like everything on the skin. It blurs imperfections, evens skin tone and sets makeup for hours on end. Simply brilliant!

// EYES + LIPS //

In the warmer months, I’m all about a quick eye that lasts and a few lip options that range from subtle to vibrant, depending on my mood for the day. The Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Palette persists in its utility, offering a quartet of neutral hues that I prefer to dab on with my finger tips. The shades are sueded and resist creasing, making them an ideal wash of color for a daytime eye. To take things to the next level, I am thoroughly enjoying the new Dior Show Hour Style Eyeliners. Retractable with strong color payoff, these glide on and do not budge until I removed. Even over the course of a hot and humid day.

I am particularly fond of the Matte Green version (worn in the images at the end of this post) on my upper lash line and lower waterline and the Pearly Gold shade delivers immaculate light to the corners of one’s eyes. To create a natural and laminated effect on brows, the Benefit 24 Hour Brow Setter Gel is beyond…the clear formula locks brows in place without flaking while adding a subtle, glossy sheen. So simple, so good.

I would be dishonest if I said that I’ve pared my entire summer routine down to three lip products. But, for the sake of focus, here are the three I’ve been wearing a lot of lately.

First, the Dior Lip Contour Lip Liner in Premiere is a pearly cool pink (the likes I’ve never encountered in a lip liner) that pairs beautifully with a spectrum of lip color shades. It soft and shimmery with fabulous lasting power. Next, I searched high and low for the Dior Addict Lacquer Stick in 667 Rising Star as it seems to sell out quickly and am happy to have finally added it into the mix. This rich nude has pink micro-shimmer (who remembers Chanel Glossimer in Astral from the early 2000’s?!) for a multidimensional effect that is some how deep nude yet light. Now I understand why it’s often out of stock…so special! When I’m seeking a pop of color, I always return to the Hermes Corail Flamingo which couples 1960s cinematic levity with a rush of striking sensuality. It’s tropical summertime in a tube.

The following images reflect all products in action in summer sunlight…

// STYLE NOTES // All summer long, I live in cutoffs, tanks, sandals and oversized outerwear. Here are some of my favorites in these categories…

• Free People Tank: The “cut in” around the shoulders style is super flattering and this soft ribbed and cropped tank is lightweight and looks great with higher-waisted bottoms. I am wearing a size medium.
• Nippies by Bristols 6: I have been buying these low profile bra replacements for years and, after trying many different competitors, have deemed these the absolute best. They effortlessly adhere, have a long lifespan. And are also invaluable for clothing that isn’t cut for a traditional bra. I always have a few pairs on back up!
• Free People Black Cutoffs: Speaking of multiples, I now own five pairs of this particular cut off (all in size 27) and wear them multiple times a week. They are comfortable and easy to dress up or down…for me, they are the shorts of summer.
• Oversized Jean Jacket: I am ever in search of a light wash, relaxed, slightly oversized denim jacket and this one has a perfect cut at an affordable price point. I sized up for an even roomier fit.
• Clear Slide Sandals: Elevated and intriguing, these clear sandals elongate the leg and match absolutely everything. The honey toned heel is the perfect height. And, since purchasing these well-crafted slides earlier this month, they’ve been on heavy rotation. Warned that they run small, I sized up one half a size and they fit like a glove.

 

 

 

–Shop the Post–

Bottom Line: I hope you enjoyed this summer product update and would love to know what caught your eye…do tell!

Good things ahead, including an on-location/travel beauty story, a fresh video, a skincare spotlight and my Nordstrom Anniversary Sale shopping guide (preview starts 7/6!). Cannot wait to share.

Stay strong, seek wisdom, much love and more soon,

xx

–The Beauty Professor

**Press samples indicated by asterisk. As always, all of my opinions are expressly and unequivocally my own.  © 2012-21 Beauty Professor® All Rights Reserved. Do not copy, reprint or republish content and/or photos without author’s written permission.