Your Summer Beauty Look in 3 Simple Steps

Discover the shortcut to a radiant, goddess-worthy summer glow

With everything radiating a brighter energy, your complexion can benefit too — and there’s minimal effort required. “It’s easier to create healthier-looking skin in the summer,” says Clint Dowdell, Nude by Nature global brand ambassador. Highlighter is the secret to a lit-from-within glow, and the smallest touch of the right radiance-boosting product will dial up your wattage.

But first, skin care!

A summer glow starts by keeping skin hydrated and protected from the sun while also treating concerns such as breakouts or fine lines. “Serum or face oil will be your problem-solver,” says Dowdell, “What is happening on top of the skin can only be helped by your cream, which is the symptom-fixer.” Don’t give your routine any days off. (That includes sunscreen, which is a must for every day. Try a tinted mineral formula for a bit of coverage.)

Using primer is also key

“It’s designed to be double-sided tape for your face, and it really does change the way foundation applies.” Anyone who has ever been challenged by an oily T-zone or dry cheeks will discover a more unified texture and the ultimate warm-weather win: longer-wearing makeup.

Now it’s time for highlighter

For an allover radiance, look for a creamy texture that promises to illuminate. “You should be able to tell when you first apply it to the skin, it just adds a soft glow to a complexion, but it shouldn’t look like a ’70’s disco ball,” says Dowdell, who mixes it with primer, BB cream or liquid foundation. (Looking for more of a loose powder foundation? Here’s a melt-proof formula that actually lasts.) To direct more intentional light to your cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow, plug in to powder or stick formulas. “A highlight stick should only be put on the areas you want to pop. I love using fingers to apply it because they melt it into the skin and stop a streaky application.”

Dowdell also allows skin type to inform picks. Liquid and cream formulas are best for dry skin, while pressed powder is a friend to oily skin. To really turn up the heat, try metallic eyeshadow. Dowdell uses Nude by Nature Shimmering Sands Loose Eyeshadow ($22 at Shoppers Drug Mart) in Rose Sand on all skin tones. “Simply press it on to lids, it makes the most novice beauty person look like they’ve spent hours doing eye makeup.”

Read up on our fave bronzing face mist that can help you maintain your glow on-the-go.