We sure have come a long way in terms of skincare since America’s Independence. Back in the colonial days American women did not wear makeup, unlike their British counterpart. Nonetheless, they still wanted their skin to look healthy and fresh and they turned to a variety of homemade and natural products to achieve glowing skin. Some remedies were more successful that others, like using a mix of egg whites and various herbs to get rid of blackheads. Others, however, were downright icky and poisonous, like orpiment- a mineral that contains arsenic and is definitely toxic.
These days, technology has come a long way, both in terms of treatments and products. Treatment wise, MicroNeedling has been the hottest trend because of its effectiveness in reducing fine lines while improving texture and tone of skin and increasing collagen production. Another great thing about MicroNeedling is that it can be safely done during the Summer months, since it requires no special precautions before sun exposure other than wearing your daily SPF In terms of products, technological advancements have allowed skincare companies to incorporate natural substances with proven scientific testing in their lotions and potions so that products now are both beneficial to skin and effective.
Here, 5 easy steps for beautiful, dewy skin for your 4th:
1. EXFOLIATE
Exfoliating skin prior to applying makeup is essential for that smooth and dewy look, since it gets rid of any dead and flaky skin you may be carrying around. Although there are many types of exfoliators, Image’s Iluma Intense Brightening Exfoliating Powder ($29.90) is perfect to use in the Summer because aside from smelling like a tropical vacation, it features coconut and papaya enzymes as its exfoliating ingredients making it gentle enough for everyday use.
2. MOISTURIZE & PROTECT
Now that skin is clean and rid of any dead skin cells, it’s time to moisturize and protect your skin from the sun. Forget about using multiple products- in today’s world, we’re all about convenience and that is exactly what you get with the Prevention+ Tinted Moisturizer ($37) which features a subtle tint to even out skin tone plus SPF 32.
3. PREP & PRIME
If you want to look flawless on the 4th, using a skin primer prior to applying makeup is a MUST! The trend in makeup for the last few years has been to offer consumers products that are effective in achieving the desired look but without harmful chemicals or other ingredients that harm skin. One such product is the Iprime Flawless Blur Gel ($59.90), a primer with a powerful blend of potent antioxidants and plant-derived stem cells and botanicals to fight off free radicals that cause skin aging. The end result? Smooth skin- ie, the perfect canvas for your next step…
4. CONCEAL
If you need a bit more coverage, you’ll want to follow your primer with a foundation. But obviously, we’re not talking any ol’ foundation here- Image’s IConceal Flawless Foundation SPF30 ($59.90) is packed with versatility with an all-in-one formula that illuminates, heals, and conceals skin with a lightweight and water-resistant formula. Did we mention that wearing this foundation will actually help your skin become healthier?! Available in 6 colors to fit every Fitzpatrick skin type, we can find no wrong with this product.
5. HIGHLIGHT
By now, your skin should look smooth and illuminated. But if you are looking for that extra glow, we got a great tip for you: simply apply a drop of facial oil to your fingertip and dab them on the area just outside your eyes, forming a “C” shape from the side of the brow to the top of the cheekbone. We love Image’s Vital C Hydrating Facial Oil ($49.90) for this- it gives skin a nice glow while keeping it hydrated.
That’s it! You’re now ready to give that fireworks show some serious competition.